Closing Date:

June 13, 2019

Position Summary:

The College of Agricultural Sciences is seeking an individual trained in viticulture with experience in cool climate wine grape production to join our dynamic and successful Extension Horticulture Unit. The Extension Educator will provide leadership for planning, implementing and evaluating educational programs, and serve as a technical resource for wine grape growers in the areas of viticulture, including site selection, production practices, nutrition and water management, and the identification and management of the major diseases and pests.

As an integral member of the Extension Grape and Enology State Team, the position will liaise closely with the Pennsylvania wine grape industry to develop Extension programs addressing the industry’s needs. While this is a 100% Extension appointment, the successful candidate will engage in applied research projects to support the needs of the Pennsylvania wine industry. The educator will also work closely with other members of the Extension Grape and Enology Team to deliver a statewide Extension program requiring travel throughout the Commonwealth.

Critical performance measures include: development of strategic educational outreach for the growing Pennsylvania wine grape industry; building a diverse external funding portfolio including grants, contracts, cost recovery, and sponsorship; involvement with multi-state or national educational or applied research projects for the wine industry.

This job will be filled as a level 3, or level 4, depending upon the successful candidate’s competencies, education, and experience. Typically requires a Master’s degree or higher plus two years of related experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience for a level 3. Additional experience and/or education and competencies are required for higher level jobs. Master’s degree in plant science with supporting coursework in viticulture, plant pathology, entomology, soils, and plant nutrition, plus related experience with East Coast wine grape production highly preferred. Candidates must possess effective communication skills (verbal and written), teaching skills, interpersonal skills, ability to build effective working relationships with colleagues and clientele, and work as a member of a team. The candidate must be organized and able to manage multiple projects simultaneously. Other requirements include: proficiency in the use of computer software packages such as Word, Excel, Publisher, and PowerPoint; ability to carry equipment, educational materials, and supplies with or without accommodation; the ability to travel, and a valid driver’s license and use of a private automobile. Since this position requires that you operate a motor vehicle as part of your job duties, successful completion of a motor vehicle records check is required in addition to standard background checks. This position is an opportunity to join one of the nation’s leading extension organizations at a time when it is embarking on an exciting new business model that encourages risk-taking and innovation.

Review of applications will begin June 13, 2019 and continue until a suitable candidate is identified. This is a fixed-term appointment funded for one year from date of hire with excellent possibility of re-funding.

To Apply:

Apply online at https://psu.jobs/job/87856

Additional Information:

To review the Annual Security Report which contains information about crime statistics and other safety and security matters and policies, please go to https://police.psu.edu/annual-security-reports, which will also explain how to request a paper copy of the Annual Security Report.

Penn State is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer, and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.