University of Connecticut Hiring for Educational Program Assistant , Hartford Extension -H at Hartford County Extension Ctr Full Time

Search #: 498081
Work type: Full-time
Location: Hartford County Extension Ctr
Categories: Academic Programs and Services

JOB SUMMARY

UConn Extension, part of the College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources, at the University of Connecticut, seeks applicants for a full-time 4-H Program Assistant position (Education Program Assistant 2). Under the general supervision of the Hartford County 4-H Extension Educator, this position will coordinate and deliver 4-H programming for youth including the Advancing 4-H Careers in Food and Agriculture via Biotechnology and STEM programming. 4-H Biotechnology and STEM activities will include developing and delivering biotechnology content for grades 9-12, coordinating field trips, and assisting teens in developing biotechnology/STEM outreach materials. This position is based at UConn Extension’s Hartford County Center in Farmington, CT. Work in this position will take place primarily in Hartford County with occasional statewide work to support Hartford County 4-H programming. Occasional evenings and weekends are required to support program needs.

The College of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources has developed and implemented a Strategic Vision to guide the development and focus of our teaching, research, and Extension programs in the years 2020-2025. The Associate Dean for Extension and Diversity will provide leadership in advancing the implementation of the College’s five strategic priorities (https://cahnr.uconn.edu/visionandvalues):

• Ensuring a vibrant agriculture industry and sustainable food supply
• Enhancing health and well-being locally, nationally, and globally
• Dismantling structural racism and fostering environments that advance racial equity, inclusion and belonging by advocating for antiracist policies, practices, and norms
• Fostering sustainable landscapes across urban-rural interfaces
• Advancing resilience and adaptation in a changing climate

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Establish, plan, and deliver 4-H programming in accordance with UConn 4-H policies and procedures in multiple sites to expand current 4-H programming opportunities in a variety of 4-H program areas.
• Plan and implement grant activities for youth enrolled in 4-H Biotechnology and STEM clubs at multiple sites and using multiple forms of program delivery.
• Assist 4-H youth in contributing ideas for a virtual biotechnology game and outreach activities related to biotechnology and STEM grant objectives.
• Deliver 4-H programming to youth and adult audiences.
• Set up program spaces in community locations. Organize and move boxes containing program and educational materials required to conduct programming.
• Coordinate recruitment and enrollment of youth participants and volunteers.
• Identify, secure, and maintain partnerships with community organizations/stakeholders.
• Support the recruitment, training, and recognition of 4-H volunteers.
• Organize and/or attend meetings related to 4-H programming responsibilities including grant team meetings.
• Promote the UConn 4-H program through print, digital media, and public speaking opportunities.
• Coordinate and deliver 4-H programming and field trips. Chaperone local, regional, and national 4-H trips.
• Enter data, compile, and prepare reports, as requested.
• Perform related duties.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

1. Bachelor’s degree in an academic discipline appropriate to the field of specialization and two to three years of professional experience related to program specialization; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
2. Experience coordinating and delivering educational programs to youth.
3. Demonstrated ability to effectively communicate information to multiple groups of individuals and experience levels (e.g., youth, parents/guardians, agency staff, and volunteers).
4. Experience working with youth and adults of diverse backgrounds.
5. Experience developing partnerships with other professionals and organizations to accomplish team and program goals.
6. Proven effective communication skills, particularly in writing and presentation.
7. Computer and technological proficiency including a working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite.
8. Experience serving as a volunteer or managing volunteers.
9. Ability to exercise discretion and maintain confidentiality.
10. Ability to work occasional evening and weekend hours.
11. Must have reliable transportation and a valid driver’s license.
12. Must possess adequate physical strength, stamina, agility, and fitness to perform the required duties.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

1. Experience with curriculum development.
2. STEM/Science background.
3. Three or more years of experience teaching youth in a formal or nonformal setting and/or experience in delivering Positive Youth Development Programming.
4. Familiarity with UConn Extension/UConn 4-H.
5. Advocate of biotechnology.
6. Bilingual (preference in Spanish).
7. Familiarity with graphic design programs such as Canva.
8. Experience with managing social media platforms.

APPOINTMENT TERMS

This is a full-time, end-dated position with the possibility of renewal subject to performance and funding. The University offers a competitive salary, and outstanding benefits, including employee and dependent tuition waivers at UConn, and a highly desirable work environment. For additional information regarding benefits visit: https://hr.uconn.edu/benefits-beyond-pay/. Other rights, terms, and conditions of employment are contained in the collective bargaining agreement between the University of Connecticut and the University of Connecticut Professional Employees Association (UCPEA).

TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

Employment of the successful candidate is contingent upon the successful completion of a pre-employment criminal background check.

TO APPLY

Please apply online at https://hr.uconn.edu/jobs, Staff Positions, Search #498081 to upload a resume/curriculum vitae, cover letter that addresses how you meet the minimum and any preferred qualifications of the position, and contact information for three (3) professional or work-related references. Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled.

Inquiries should be sent by email to, Jen Cushman ([email protected]).

All employees are subject to adherence to the State Code of Ethics which may be found at http://www.ct.gov/ethics/site/default.asp.

All members of the University of Connecticut are expected to exhibit appreciation of, and contribute to, an inclusive, respectful, and diverse environment for the University community.

The University of Connecticut aspires to create a community built on collaboration and belonging and has actively sought to create an inclusive culture within the workforce. The success of the University is dependent on the willingness of our diverse employee and student populations to share their rich perspectives and backgrounds in a respectful manner. This makes it essential for each member of our community to feel secure and welcomed and to thoroughly understand and believe that their ideas are respected by all. We strongly respect each individual employee’s unique experiences and perspectives and encourage all members of the community to do the same. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.

The University of Connecticut is an AA/EEO Employer.

Advertised: Jan 08 2024 Eastern Standard Time
Applications close: