South Dakota State University (SDSU) Extension is hiring an Extension Dairy Occupational Health and Safety Field Specialist I to provide strong regional and statewide leadership in delivering research-based programming to support the dairy industry in South Dakota. We are looking for a skilled individual who can build collaborative relationships with producers, industry, and governmental agencies to identify ongoing and emerging sustainable management and workforce needs of dairy producers. This position is located in Watertown, SD. This position is a 12-month, full-time, benefits-eligible position. 

SDSU Extension is one mode of outreach utilized by South Dakota State University. It brings educational programs and research-based information to the citizens of South Dakota. It also works with academic departments and the Agricultural Experiment Station to provide unbiased, science-based knowledge focused on issues and needs. Extension has five capstone program areas: Competitive Crops Systems; Competitive Livestock Systems; Youth and Community Leadership; Food and Families; and Urban/Rural Initiatives which are part of the College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences and the College of Education and Human Sciences.

This position will work in collaboration with the Department of Dairy and Food Science which includes faculty whose expertise spans the fields of dairy production, dairy manufacturing, and food science. The department has a robust and productive research program. Dissemination of science-based knowledge is a core mission of the department. Our faculty Extension Specialist and Field Specialists provide an effective structure for meeting this mission. This position is accountable to the Agriculture and Natural Resources Program Leader and affiliated with the Dairy and Food Science Department and will work collaboratively with other Competitive Livestock Field Specialists, State Specialists, and other faculty members in their respective departments.

South Dakota State University promotes access to and opportunities for all to receive the benefit of and participate in education, research, and service and is especially interested in candidates that can contribute to this land-grant mission of access.

Must be authorized to work in the U.S.  Sponsorship is not available for this position.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Ability to identify and monitor variables and issues important to learning community vitality;
• Participates in externally funded projects led by Extension State Specialists or Field Specialist colleagues within and/or across capstone areas;
• Uses cutting-edge research-based information and data in programming and collaborates on state emerging issues;
• Develop relationships with all pertinent stakeholders and/or groups on state-wide emerging issues. Provides subject matter support;
• Utilizes and adapts technology in program development and delivery (e.g. Extension website);
• Recruit and utilize volunteers to enhance educational outreach. Identify potential industry leaders to help accomplish learning community and industry goals.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Master’s degree obtained by first day of employment with at least one degree in Agriculture with an emphasis in Dairy Cattle Production, Occupational Health, or closely related field.
• Knowledge of dairy cattle production systems.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to communicate effectively with a variety of audiences.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work as a team member.
• Demonstrated use of technology in managing or delivering educational programs.
• Demonstrated ability or potential to plan, implement, and evaluate educational materials and direct effective programs.
• Valid driver’s license, or ability to obtain one within 30 days of hire, and willingness to travel.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• At least one year of experience in large dairy cattle production systems.
• At least one year of experience in workforce management.
• Fluent in Spanish.
• Previous Extension experience.
• Demonstrated experience of conducting impact programming based on local needs assessment.
• Previous leadership experience in developing or leading learning communities.
• Experience in leadership and teamwork with stakeholders.
• Demonstrated collaboration in developing funding proposals to support new and/or enhanced programming.