Michigan State University seeks an Extension Educator-Blueberry/Small Fruit
Position Summary
As part of MSU Extension (MSUE) and the Agriculture and Agribusiness
Institute (AABI), this position provides leadership and expertise in
highbush blueberry and small fruit production.
Duties and responsibilities
In this position, you will identify, design, implement and evaluate
educational programs that meet outreach needs related to highbush
blueberry and small fruit production. Through your leadership, you will
provide support to blueberry and small fruit growers in southwest Michigan
to improve the sustainability of the blueberry and small fruit industries,
with a majority of time spent supporting the blueberry industry. This can
include, but not be limited to improved horticultural methods or practices,
improved understanding of emerging fruit production systems, integrated
pest management, improved financial management, as well as alternative
and emerging markets. Your work will include completing on-farm
consultations, virtual and in-person meetings, conducting demonstrations
and/or participating in on-going field research.
You will have the ability to network statewide with the existing core of Fruit
Educators and Specialists and campus-based faculty to provide education
and service to Michigan blueberry and small fruit growers. Your work will
include close collaboration with colleagues at MSU and MSU Extension,
as well as the diverse network of partner groups that include multiple
commodity and industry organizations, including the Michigan Blueberry
Commission and the Michigan State Horticultural Society. Acting as a
statewide point of contact, you will provide support for AABI in determining
research and programmatic needs across the state and will communicate
and interact with community groups to evaluate the needs of the clientele.
Although negotiable, there will be space available for this position to work
from the Van Buren County MSU Extension office.
desired qualifications
- Master’s degree from an accredited institution in a field of study
related to horticulture or related field must be earned by date of hire. - Familiarity with commercial highbush blueberry and small fruit
production. - Salary:
Commensurate with education and
experience - Benefits:
Comprehensive benefits package:
https://www.hr.msu.edu/benefits/index.html - Location:
Van Buren County, MI
To Apply:
Current MSU Employees:
Access the EBS portal. Under the My
Career and Training section, select
the Careers @ MSU tile to view
Internal Job Postings.
External Applicants:
Visit http://careers.msu.edu
APPLICATION PROCEDURE: View full description and apply through the MSU careers page. Search for posting 715518 using the Job Search field.
MSU is an affirmative-action, equal-opportunity employer, committed to achieving excellence through a diverse workforce and inclusive culture that encourages all
people to reach their full potential. Michigan State University Extension employment opportunities are open to eligible/qualified persons without regard to race, color,
national origin, gender, gender identity, religion, age, height, weight, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status, family status or veteran status.
MSU is committed to achieving excellence through cultural diversity. Persons with disabilities have the right to request and receive reasonable accommodations.
The university actively encourages applications and/or nominations of women, persons of color, veterans and persons with disabilities.