Field Support Specialist (Cornell Cooperative Extension); Northwest Region of New York State

Field Support Specialist

Program / Extension Aide II

Band B - Nonexempt
Cornell Cooperative Extension
College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS)

Northwest Region of New York State

Who We Are

The College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) is a pioneer of purpose-driven science and Cornell University's second largest college. We work across disciplines to tackle the challenges of our time through world-renowned research, education, and outreach. The questions we probe and the answers we seek focus on three overlapping concerns: We believe that achieving next-generation scientific breakthroughs requires an understanding of the world's complex, interlocking systems. We believe that access to nutritious food and a healthy environment is a fundamental human right. We believe that ensuring a prosperous global future depends on the ability to support local people and communities everywhere. By working in and across multiple scientific areas, CALS can address challenges and opportunities of the greatest relevance, here in New York, across the nation, and around the world.

Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) provides the educational outreach functions for Cornell University's role as New York State's Land Grant University. The Northwest New York Dairy, Livestock and Field Crops Program (NWNY) provides educational opportunities and information to producers, processors, and agri-business professionals, arming them with the knowledge to profitably for dairy, field crop and livestock operations, contributing to the viability of farms and the economic well-being of New York State.

What You Will Do

You will support team members in carrying out research activities that will ultimately enhance the profitability and sustainability of the dairy, livestock, and field crop industry in Western New York. Additionally, you will contribute to various educational programs. Other duties include:

• Traveling to research plots and transporting samples to storage sites or research facilities for further analysis.
• Assisting with crop planting and maintenance.
• Collecting field data from research and demonstration projects, including variety trials.
• Scouting for insects, diseases, weeds, and crop damage in research plots and fields.
• Reporting data to trap network coordinator weekly.
• Assisting in logistical setup for educational meetings and events.
• Assisting with the documentation and evaluation of program activities and reports.
• Preparing data tables, charts, and information for presentations using Microsoft Office.
• Assisting in the preparation of training and educational materials.
• Assisting with social media outreach as needed.

What We Need

We are looking for a talented individual who excels at building and maintaining effective relationships with diverse stakeholders. We need someone who appreciates agriculture and is comfortable working in commercial fields. Additionally, we need someone who has the following:

• Associate's Degree and 1+ years of experience in an agriculture setting, or the equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Proven ability to work independently in collecting and summarizing data.
• Competence utilizing current computer technology, i.e., Windows - Excel/Word/PowerPoint.
• Excellent communication skills (both oral and written).
• Demonstrated skills with social media outreach.
• Strong organizational skills.
• Ability to prioritize multiple activities and tasks while meeting deadlines.
• Excellent customer service skills; must work effectively with a diverse clientele.
• Must be able to work outdoors in all types of weather.
• Will be expected to work flexible hours, occasional evenings, and weekends as job functions require.
• Must be able to meet the travel requirements of the position and have reliable transportation as well as have and maintain a valid and unrestricted New York State driver's license and be cleared to drive for university business.
• Visual concentration, attention to detail, and manual dexterity are required.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
• Must exercise sound and ethical judgment when acting on behalf of the University.
• Experience in and/or demonstrated commitment to supporting diversity, equity, access, inclusion, and wellbeing.
• Experience working directly with people from diverse racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds.

If you possess these experiences and skills, this may be the role for you! There are a few other qualifications that we would view as incredibly helpful in this role, including:

• Associate's Degree with coursework in entomology, plant pathology, plant physiology, weed science, horticulture, and/or agronomy.
• Experience supporting research projects, including data collection and summary.
• Experience working in agriculture, dairy, field crops, and/or cash crops production.

This is a one-year (39 hours/week) appointment with possible extension depending on funding and performance. Hours may be reduced to a minimum of 20 hours/week during winter months, depending on available work and funding. This position will be in the Northwest region of New York State.

Rewards and Benefits

We hope you appreciate great benefits. Cornell receives national recognition as an award-winning workplace for our health, well-being, sustainability, and diversity initiatives.

• You can also view additional information regarding job competencies and staff skills for success.
• Cornell has a comprehensive total rewards program that offers several benefits options to meet your needs. More information on our wonderful programs can be found at https://hr.cornell.edu/jobs/your-total-rewards.

College of Agriculture and Life Sciences

Life. Changing.

No relocation assistance is provided for this position. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

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You must submit both a resume/CV and a cover letter.

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EEO Statement:

Diversity and Inclusion are a part of Cornell University's heritage. We are a recognized employer and educator valuing AA/EEO, and we do not tolerate discrimination based on any protected characteristic, including race, ethnic or national origin, citizenship and immigration status, color, sex/gender, pregnancy or pregnancy-related conditions, age, creed, religion, actual or perceived disability (including persons associated with such a person), arrest and/or conviction record, military or veteran status, sexual orientation, gender expression and/or identity, an individual's genetic information, domestic violence victim status, familial status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. We also recognize a lawful preference in employment practices for Native Americans living on or near Indian reservations in accordance with applicable law.

Cornell University embraces diversity and seeks candidates who will contribute to a climate that supports students, faculty, and staff to all identities and backgrounds. We encourage individuals from underrepresented and/or marginalized identities to apply.