South Dakota State University (SDSU) Extension/Natural Resource Management Department is offering an exciting career opportunity as an Extension Range Field Specialist I.  We are looking for a creative and innovative professional who will provide leadership to the development and dissemination of research-based programming and resources in support of multi-species range, grassland management, and woody plant encroachment control. This is a 12-month, full-time, benefit-eligible position available in one of our regional extension centers located in either Aberdeen, Lemmon, Mitchell, or Pierre. This position is supervised by the Ag and Natural Resources Program Leader and is affiliated with Department of Natural Resource Management at SDSU.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

The Extension Range Field Specialist I will be responsible for development and dissemination of research-based programming and resources in support of multi-species range, grassland management, and woody encroachment control, including but not limited to, grazing systems, soil health, ecology and other related topics across South Dakota.  They will travel extensively to build strong relationships with producer groups, agribusinesses, and governmental agencies to identify ongoing and emerging needs in regard to range and grassland management. This includes:

• Implement proactive, problem-solving approaches to identified stakeholder issues, needs, and topics.
• Exercise communication and facilitation skills in working with appropriate discipline and topic focused organizations and groups.
• Commit 20% of work time and effort to creating and delivering technological outreach through the Extension web portal https://extension.sdstate.edu.
• Develop and interact with learning communities related to range and grassland management.
• Commit to regional and statewide program delivery strategies and the intent to create enthusiastic implementation among state and local stakeholders.
• Develop and implement presentations, workshops, and training to a variety of audiences.
• Develop and implement evaluation tools for measuring and reporting program impact.
• Utilize and implement program business plans to manage projects and programs.
• Develop grants and/or cost recovery mechanisms to assist with program sustainability.
• Establish strong collaborative partnerships.