Job Description

University of Illinois Extension
Extension Unit Educator
Horticulture
Cook County
(Search #0552)

Nature, Purpose and Scope

The Unit Educator, Horticulture in Cook County provides educational outreach under the Cook County Extension - Expanded Outreach Initiative, Urban Environment and Natural Resources. The general responsibilities will be to develop and carry out educational programs with emphasis on horticulture.  The Unit Educator will develop a comprehensive interdisciplinary program.

This position will have the primary focus to deliver educational programs county wide to both adults and youth, with primary emphasis to a designated district. The Unit Educator will work as a team member with the District Coordinator, other Educators and Extension Specialists, and will foster sensitivity to the needs of diverse audiences while working with the local leadership in program planning and delivery. This is a regular, full-time, academic professional position. One or more positions may be available.
 
Note: This is a security-sensitive position. Comprehensive background checks including, but not limited to a criminal conviction information check, a CANTS (Child Abuse and Neglect Tracking System) check, and a review of the Registered Sex Offenders list, will be conducted.

Administrative Accountability

The individual in this position is administratively responsible to the University of Illinois Assistant Dean, Urban & Metropolitan Affairs with assistance from the Cook County Extension Director for program leadership, guidance and supervision.

Program Relationship

The Educator, Horticulture has a programmatic relationship with the Director and Associate Director of Cook County Extension, subject matter experts, Extension Educators Cook County staff, and local Extension Advisory Councils and groups. This position also interacts with the appropriate colleges, departments, and units of the University of Illinois.

Location

Cook County District Office

Duties and Responsibilities

• Facilitate and conduct educational programs in the area of horticulture.
• Design and implement programs to increase public awareness in the area of horticulture.
• Collaborate with other Extension Educators to develop, implement and support interdisciplinary programming.
• Participate in the assessment, development, delivery and coordination of educational programs identified in the Plan of Work.
• Provide practical, research-based knowledge and educational programs to help individuals, businesses, and communities throughout Cook County.
• Help neighborhoods and schools develop open spaces into productive community gardens.
• Develop community recognition programs, which recognize people and communities for their efforts related to quality of life issues and the environment.
• Assist with the development of marketing plans and goals to recruit participants for educational activities; develop advertising and publicity for the activities.
• Promote and develop educational programs that increase interest and career opportunities for under-represented and minority groups in the green industry.
• Provide program leadership for youth in horticulture, forestry and environment projects.
• Develop communities clubs and provide leadership in managing 4-H district horticulture programs in Cook County.
• Maintain liaison with other horticulture agencies, green industry businesses and organizations in Cook County.
• Cooperate with the District Coordinator to help assess programming needs, develop educational programs based on these needs, and deliver horticulture programs for Cook County.
• Cooperate closely with unit Extension staff to respond in a timely fashion to appropriate local needs as they relate to horticulture.
• Network and collaborate with appropriate designated community organizations and groups to assess needs and develop educational activities to address those needs.
• Support other Extension programs as both time and expertise may allow.
• Develop a plan for involving volunteers in specific educational programs, which includes recruitment, training, support and recognition.
• Assist in the recognition, marketing and promotion of Extension programs in Cook County.
• Prepare and disseminate information through the various media outlets throughout the Chicagoland area (newspapers, radio, television, world wide web, etc.).
• Participate in professional development opportunities to maintain professional competence.
• Evaluate impact of efforts and prepare timely reports of accomplishments to share with Extension colleagues, administrators, various stakeholders and grantors.
• Help secure funds to develop and deliver programs to meet the needs of the residents of Cook County.
• Submit monthly reports.
• Comply with Affirmative Action / Equal Opportunity policies and guidelines in all aspects of University of Illinois Extension work.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Required:

1. Master’s degree from an accredited institution of higher education in a field related to the position. Candidates with a Master’s degree in progress may be considered for interviews; however, the Master’s degree must be completed by the date of hire.
2. Strong written and oral communication skills.
3. Understanding of urban issues and populations.
4. Evidence of success in working with diverse cultural groups.
5. Some knowledge and experience in program planning, promotion and resource development

Preferred:

1. Understanding of the history, objectives, organization, scope and methods of the University of Illinois Extension.
2. Previous experience in community and educational outreach.
3. Teaching experience in formal and informal settings.
4. Proven ability to work independently.
5. Ability to work flexible hours and be self-directing.

Application Procedures

Application will consist of (2) copies of:

• Letter of interest relating to the position available (including title and search number)
• Current resume

• Names and contact information of three (3) references (must include name, address and telephone number)

***NOTE: The candidate selected to fill this position will be required to submit official college transcripts and formal letters of reference (from the three references identified), as a condition of hire.

Send application material to:
Cheryl Westlund
University of Illinois Extension
5527 Miller Circle Drive, Suite B
Matteson, IL 60443

For further information contact: Cheryl Westlund at 708-720-7546.

Deadline: To insure full consideration, application materials must be received by January 6, 2006.  

Salary: Salary range is commensurate with professional qualifications, education and experience.

Anticipated Start Date: As soon as possible after closing.

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