Area Agent Aquaculture and Aquatic Science WK chez Kentucky State University

TITLE: Area Agent for Aquaculture and Aquatic Science

DEPARTMENT: Cooperative Extension

REPORTS TO: West Regional Extension Director 

CLASSIFICATION: Staff-12 months

EFFECTIVE DATE: TBD

STANDARD WORK HOURS: 37.5 hours per week

EMPLOYMENT STATUS: Full-Time 

EMPLOYMENT CLASSIFICATION: Exempt

JOB SUMMARY: 

The Area Agents for Aquaculture and Aquatic Science will be located in Bowling Green and Paducah, Kentucky to address many of the concerns of our constituents in selected regions of the State. The person will conduct Extension programming (100%) in the area of aquaculture and aquatic science, and closely related areas. The successful candidate is expected to: 1) develop, adapt, and deliver research-based Extension programs; 2) conduct stakeholder workshops 3) create and disseminate Extension publications, educational materials, and digital content; 4) identify the Extension needs of relevant stakeholders and provide that information to Extension leadership 5) demonstrate the ability to work effectively with diverse populations to address needs; 6) develop outreach strategies and materials for underserved and hard-to-reach populations; 7) support the land-grant mission through outreach, engagement, and applied education; and 8) other tasks as assigned.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS: 

• Answer aquaculture, lake, and pond management information requests from community members and other agency personnel and the public
• Support the execution of producer field trials and demonstration farms in the service area
• Work with faculty in the School of Aquaculture and Aquatic Science, to help build programs
• Consult with KY Fish and Wildlife, Division of Water, and other state and federal agencies to find opportunities for collaboration and maintain communication regarding extension activities.
• Provide subject-related presentations and site visits
• Disseminate Extension literature and review aquaculture and fisheries applied research results
• Attend and present programs during professional conferences
• Help organize conferences and conference sessions
• Serve on professional organization committees and local program committees
• Reach out to local, state, and federal representatives to maintain productive communication pathways about extension activities.
• Work with industry and non-profit organizations such as foundations to assess their needs and attract investment to support programming.
• Learn about issues such as watershed management, farm pond management, fisheries dynamics, stormwater management, drought protection aquatic weed control, invasive species remediation, and natural resources conservation to assess community needs and develop responsive Extension programs.
• Perform other duties as required.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:

• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Knowledge of aquaculture, aquatic science, and pond management
• Knowledge of communication platforms such as social media, websites, newsletters, and communication software.
• Ability to provide timely and effective subject-related communication.
• Ability to effectively address client needs to establish confidence and build relationships within the extension system
• Strong organizational skills

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY: 

OTHER DUTIES: 

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor of Science degree in aquaculture, fisheries, aquatic science or a closely related field
• One or more years of related work experience preferred.
• Effective oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills

Licensing and Certifications: NA

WORKING CONDITIONS: 

• Must be able to operate a motor vehicle and travel long distances sometimes under adverse conditions
• May be exposed to hot or cold weather
• Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds with or without reasonable accommodation
• Occasional evening and weekend work may be required

Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the United States. At this time, Kentucky State University is unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa

Internal candidates are encouraged to apply.

KENTUCKY STATE UNIVERSITY is an Equal Opportunity Employer

The functions, qualifications, knowledge/skills, and physical requirements listed in this job description represent the essential duties of the job, which the incumbent must be able to perform either with or without reasonable accommodation. The Job Functions listed do not necessarily include all activities that the individual may perform.