University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Job Summary:

Nebraska Extension has an excellent opportunity for a full-time faculty located in Ainsworth, NE, with the geographic accountability region of Brown, Rock, and Keya Paha Counties. This position will focus on livestock systems with an emphasis on beef cattle production and management strategies or use of forages (range and pasture, residues, secondary forage crops, others) in beef systems. As a member of the UNL Extension team you will collaborate with research and extension faculty who are leaders in their field. You will work with high performing teams to create and deliver world class, innovative learning experiences that empower Nebraskans to improve their lives around critical issues.  

This twelve-month, non-tenure position carries the title of open rank extension educator or extension instructor, depending on the candidate’s level of education. Those possessing a graduate level degree in the requested area of instruction will be considered for an educator position, a full-time, promotable, non-tenure track appointment.  Those in possession of an undergraduate degree in the requested area of instruction will be considered for an instructor position, a full-time, non-promotable, non-tenure track appointment that will be renewed annually for a maximum of five years in the appointment. If hired as an instructor, the incumbent will be expected to make satisfactory progress towards and complete a master’s degree within the initial five-year appointment period. As part of the Nebraska benefits package, UNL offers tuition remission for full-time employees, up to 15 credit hours per year. Once the master’s degree is earned within that period, the position will advance to an assistant extension educator appointment.

Some travel is required. Must meet driver standards according to UNL policy and have a valid driver’s license. This position is not eligible for employment-based permanent residency sponsorship. UNL may be able to sponsor a temporary work authorization (e.g., H-1B) for the successful candidate.

About Us:

We invite you to learn more about this role and Nebraska Extension using the following links: Our Strategic Direction | Nebraska Extension and Nebraska Extension – Livestock Systems.

Recognizing that collaboration and participation in teams enhances creativity, innovation, impact, and a sense of belonging, the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources (IANR) and Nebraska Extension are committed to creating learning, research, and Extension programming environments where the unique contributions of each individual are acknowledged and valued. Consistent with the University’s N2025 Strategic Plan, we see every person and every interaction as important to our collective wellbeing and our ability to deliver on our mission.

Required Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in animal science, agronomy, natural resources, or similar field with an emphasis in beef cattle systems (extension educator) OR bachelor’s degree in animal science, agronomy, natural resources, or similar field with an emphasis in beef cattle systems (extension instructor). If hired as an instructor, the incumbent will be expected to make satisfactory progress towards and complete a master’s degree within the initial five-year appointment period.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate (i.e., publications, presentations, web, and social media).
• Experience in beef systems – integrating beef cattle systems concepts and technologies into beef management.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Successful experience teaching beef systems and/or range and pasture and other forages used in beef cattle systems in a formal or non-formal setting.
• Experience in working with individuals, coworkers, and teams to accomplish individual and/or group goals, as evidenced by college, career, and/or community activities.
• Outstanding leadership skills as demonstrated by roles in college, career, and/or community activities.
• Ability to utilize electronic and online technologies for educational program delivery.

Application Process:

Click "Apply Now" and login or create an applicant profile. Upload the following documents:

1. A letter of interest that describes your qualifications for the job and anticipated contributions.
2. Your curriculum vitae.
3. Contact information for three professional references.

In addition, within the application, please complete the required supplemental question(s), one specifically describing your experience working in teams or groups and your anticipated contributions to creating environments where every person and every interaction matters. See https://go.unl.edu/guidance for assistance in writing this statement.