University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Job Summary:

Nebraska Extension has an excellent opportunity for a full-time faculty located in Ainsworth, NE. This position’s primary responsibility is to develop and deliver educational programs and resources within the geographic accountability region of Brown, Rock, Keya Paha, Holt and Boyd Counties. This position will provide regional leadership for Nebraska Extension's 4-H and Youth Development programs. The Positive Youth Development – 4-H extension professional will contribute to the integrated (extension, research, and teaching) land-grant mission of the home unit and the IANR as an effective scholar and citizen, including supporting student recruitment and IANR science literacy.
 
In 4-H, we believe in the power of young people. We see that every child has valuable strengths and real influence to improve the world around us. We are America’s largest youth development organization, empowering nearly six million young people across the U.S. with the skills to lead for a lifetime. Nebraska Extension is an organization that values excellence and as a member of the Nebraska Extension team you will create and deliver world-class learning experiences focused on critical issues that empower Nebraskans to improve their lives.
 
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.
 
As an EO/AA employer, the University of Nebraska considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, and/or political affiliation. See https://equity.unl.edu/notice-nondiscrimination/.

About Us:

We invite you to learn more about this role and Extension using the following links: Our Strategic Direction | Nebraska Extension and Nebraska Extension – 4-H Youth Development. 

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 youth development, education, or a closely related field (extension educator) OR bachelor's degree in youth development, education, or a closely related field (extension instructor). If hired as an instructor, the incumbent will be expected to make satisfactory progress towards a master’s degree within the initial five-year appointment period.
• Successful experience teaching in a formal or non-formal setting.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate (i.e., publications, presentations, web, and social media).
• Experience and demonstrated ability working with youth and youth organizations, including understanding positive youth development and youth program management.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Demonstrated experience working as a team, displaying strong leadership and organizational skills.
• Demonstrated experience/training in the recruitment, training, mentoring, and management of volunteers.
• Experience and ability to engage diverse and underserved audiences.   
• Ability to speak language(s) in addition to English; Spanish preferred.

How to Apply:

To apply for this position, click "Apply Now" to create an applicant profile. Attach 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 guidance in writing this statement.