4-H Youth Development Educator (100%)

WAUKESHA COUNTY
Position Description and Position Vacancy Announcement
Application Due Date:  April 7^th, 2015

COOPERATIVE EXTENSION VISION: To be a thriving, well-known and sought-out educational resource that reflects the rich diversity of the state.

COOPERATIVE EXTENSION PURPOSE: We teach, learn, lead and serve, connecting people with the University of Wisconsin, and engaging with them in transforming lives and communities.

WORKING TITLE:  Waukesha County 4-H Youth Development Educator (100%)

OFFICIAL TITLE:  Faculty (rank to be determined)

GEOGRAPHIC AREAS SERVED:  Primarily Waukesha County and occasionally extending beyond county boundaries for specific commitments and team programming.

OFFICE LOCATION:  Waukesha County UW-Extension Office, Admin Center – Rm G22, 515 W Moreland Blvd, Waukesha, WI 53188

TYPE OF APPOINTMENT:
This is a probationary University of Wisconsin-Extension tenure-track faculty appointment located within the division of Cooperative Extension.  This probationary appointment may be renewed annually for six years, depending on performance during the probationary period.  Tenure must be achieved by the tenure date at the end of the sixth year of full-time employment to retain the position in accordance with University of Wisconsin–Extension faculty policies and procedures.  This faculty position is in the University of Wisconsin–Extension Department of Youth Development.

POSITION PURPOSE:
As a faculty member of the University of Wisconsin-Extension, Cooperative Extension, employed with Waukesha County, the 4-H Youth Development Educator is an educational leader in teaching, accessing and applying research-based knowledge in the social, human and behavioral sciences.  The 4-H Youth Development Educator takes a scholarly approach in organizing community resources in support of the inclusive positive development of youth, especially in the areas of leadership and civic engagement.

INITIAL POSITION FOCUS:
Based on the results of a recent visioning session and previous educational efforts, the initial focus of this position will be collaboration with the Waukesha County 4-H program and community partners to support the development of youth and adults who work with youth.  The focus will be in the areas of leadership development; career skills and preparation; and life skills development.

PRIMARY DUTIES/ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Design, deliver and teach culturally relevant community-based educational programs through a variety of methods
• Conduct and collect ongoing assessments of community educational needs
• Create a plan of work that integrates research and community needs
• Reach and engage diverse audiences in ways that are inclusive and do not discriminate to ensure full access to programs, facilities and educational services
• Conduct and report on program evaluations to improve program effectiveness and demonstrate value to programmatic and funding partners
• Regularly prepare educational and promotional materials using appropriate technology
• Identify, recruit and develop volunteer leadership necessary to carry out work plans
• Write, publish and share articles, curricula and program designs
• Build, strengthen and sustain trust-based relationships to promote cooperative and respectful work environments
• Develop and maintain relationships with programmatic and funding partners  in ways that effectively communicate Extension’s value
• Collaborate with program-related community coalitions and partnerships
• Regularly consult with and report to Extension partners at the county and state levels to ensure accountability
• Develop and follow a professional development plan to ensure proficiency in priority content, current research and relevant competencies
• Be responsive to evolving position, program, office and organizational needs; perform adjusted or additional duties as requested
• Contribute leadership, as needed, to ensure effective Extension office operations
• Provide professional guidance and counsel to the 4-H community club program and to other program-related groups and organizations and ensure compliance with university, state and federal policies and laws
• Generate program revenue by developing one annual educational program and/or partnership that creates funds to help the office meet county revenue generation requirements

WORKING CONDITIONS: 

• Make individual arrangements for transportation adequate to meet position responsibilities and essential job functions
• Assume weekly travel throughout the county and occasional travel within the state
• Work evenings on a regular basis and occasionally on weekends, as needed, to meet local needs

POSITION EXPECTATIONS: 

The 4-H Youth Development Educator aligns the work of this position with the purpose, vision and values of Cooperative Extension in ways that contribute to supportive workplaces.  The values of community, discovery, inclusiveness, relationships and respect guide the 4-H Youth Development Educator in achieving the primary outcomes of the position.

The 4-H Youth Development Educator is expected to contribute to the scholarly environment of Cooperative Extension as appropriate for the position.  Scholarly activity and behavior on the part of University of Wisconsin-Extension faculty are demonstrated throughout the academic career of the faculty member – including teaching, research, service and outreach on behalf of the residents of the State and the University.  The demonstration of scholarship by the 4-H Youth Development Educator is evaluated through regular peer review by members of the Department of Youth Development.  Standards of excellence are expected to be met throughout the Extension career of the faculty member.

The 4-H Youth Development Educator actively participates in the shared governance and policy development of the institution, personally or through representatives, to ensure representation in matters affecting faculty.

The 4-H Youth Development Educator meets the reporting accountabilities and performance expectations of the position in collaboration with the East Metro Regional Director (hiring authority), 4-H Youth Development State Program Office, Waukesha County Department Head, and the Waukesha County Executive Committee.  

TO BE CONSIDERED ELIGIBLE FOR THIS POSITION, YOU MUST MEET ALL OF THE FOLLOWING MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: 

• Masters or other graduate degree with course work in educational principles, curriculum development, program evaluation and/or the cognitive and social development of youth and adults
• Demonstrated skills in planning, implementing or teaching educational programs
• Experience in youth related programs
• Experience (paid or volunteer) in working at a community level and partnering with others to address educational needs
• Knowledge and skills to effectively engage with people from different cultural backgrounds including those associated with race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, socioeconomic status, age, gender, physical and cognitive ability, sexual orientation, and other aspects of human diversity

BEST QUALIFIED APPLICANTS MAY ALSO DEMONSTRATE THE FOLLOWING PREFERRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Masters degree with content expertise in a related field such as youth development, human behavior, education, or other related behavioral sciences
• A minimum of two years of professionally related experience  with a focus on youth education, developing community partners or volunteer development
• Demonstrated educational program development skills including planning and implementing programs; evaluating learning experiences; and communicating program impact and value to stakeholders
• Demonstrated skills in interpreting, utilizing and applying evidence-based information and research findings
• Knowledge of adult learning principles
• Effective group facilitation skills
• Demonstrated educational program management skills including grant-writing, budget development, and fiscal resources management
• Successful experience developing volunteers and managing volunteer-delivered programs
• Experience developing effective partnerships or coalitions with community partners and local governments
• Successful volunteer or paid experience working with people from diverse backgrounds and experiences
• Demonstrated skills in building and maintaining professional work environments
• Strong interpersonal relationship and problem-solving skills in a team setting
• Effective communication and presentation skills using a variety of methods and technologies
• Ability to promote Cooperative Extension and its programs through various media and public relations strategies
• Knowledge of the legacy of Cooperative Extension as part of the U.S. system of land-grant institutions, dedicated to service in the public good

ORGANIZATIONAL COMPETENCIES:
Individuals who demonstrate increasing capacity in the following organizational competencies, as indicated by the examples listed below, are likely to experience higher levels of success within their Cooperative Extension positions:

LEADERSHIP
Inspires respect and trust; Practices strategic, shared and ethical decision making; Clarifies expectations and accepts feedback; Shows personal responsibility and follow through on commitments; Adapts well to change or unexpected events in the work environment; Finds solutions; Is willing and motivated to learn.

RELATIONSHIP-BUILDING
Works in ways that support mutually beneficial partnerships, including being tactfully and diplomatically responsive to others and maintaining confidentiality; Understands group and team dynamics; Gives appropriate recognition to others; Chooses appropriate Extension roles in conflict situations; Manages interactions successfully through an awareness of emotions for oneself and others.

INCLUSION
Recognizes, understands and appreciates the culturally different ways in which others express themselves; Treats others with dignity, respect and consideration; Demonstrates active, intentional and ongoing engagement with diversity through programming and outreach efforts.

COMMUNICATION
Listens and seeks clarification; Adapts and varies communication to fit cultural contexts and circumstances; Demonstrates effective communication technology skills and presentation skills; Writes clearly and informatively; others; Possesses marketing skills to strengthen understanding of the value of Extension.

POSITION CLARIFICATION:
This position is subject to University of Wisconsin System, University of Wisconsin -Extension and Cooperative Extension human resources policies.  Tenure is granted in the University of Wisconsin-Extension and is not binding upon a specific assigned work location.   This position description is not intended to be comprehensive in nature given the changes in primary duties/essential job functions and position expectations that can occur over time in response to emerging and assessed community, program and organizational needs.  Changes to this position description are subject to the approval of the Cooperative Extension Human Resource Development Office and those to whom the position is accountable.

POSITION BENEFITS AND SALARY:
State of Wisconsin benefits (https://www.wisconsin.edu/ohrwd/benefits/), including retirement, vacation, sick leave, health insurance, and other insurances.  Starting salary range commensurate with qualifications: $40,000 – $55,000.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY:
As an affirmative action employer, University of Wisconsin -Extension provides equal opportunity in programs and employment; and is strongly committed to maintaining a climate supportive of respect for differences and equality of opportunity. University of Wisconsin -Extension does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, creed, color, disability, sex/gender, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, religion, marital status, identity as a veteran, disabled veteran, Vietnam veteran or any other military service, arrest record or non-program related conviction record.  We promote excellence through diversity and encourage all qualified individuals to apply.

Materials will be made available in alternative format upon request.  Please call 711 if you are hearing or speech impaired and need assistance.   Direct inquiries concerning equal opportunity to:  University of Wisconsin-Extension Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion; Room 501; 432 N. Lake Street; Madison, WI  53706.  608.262.0277 (office); 608.890.0259 (fax)

CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECK:
A criminal background check will be conducted prior to employment.  Completed consent forms will be requested following the final interviews.  In compliance with the Wisconsin Fair Employment Act, convictions and pending charges will be considered only as they relate to this position.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE AND DEADLINE:

1. APPLICATION DUE DATE: April 7^th, 2015
   Applications received after the application due date will be accepted through the conclusion of the initial application screening process.
2. APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
   Applications that do not comply with these instructions are incomplete and will not be considered.  To receive full consideration  you must submit all of the following documents. when uploading documents, pdf format is preferred.  Any documents, other than those requested, will be deleted from your application.  Application materials that do not comply with these instructions are incomplete and will not be considered.
   1. COVER LETTER (up to two pages) in which you summarize how your qualifications meet those of the position. Please note that your response will be evaluated not only for content but for written communication skills as well. You are encouraged to refer to formal education, training, professional work history, volunteer work, research and any related life experiences in your response.  Please follow the guidelines below to ensure your cover letter is as complete a summary of your qualifications as possible:
      • Prepare a summary paragraph for each of the listed MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS.
      • Include a paragraph that summarizes the PREFERRED knowledge, skills and abilities which you possess as particular strengths, beyond the minimum qualifications.
      • If an Initial Position Focus is specified on the first page of the position description, describe any relevant experience you have related to the Initial Position Focus.
   2. PROFESSIONAL RESUME, including related education, professional work history and volunteer experience.
   3. CONTACT INFORMATION FOR THREE (3) PROFESSIONAL WORK REFERENCES, including at least one person who has been your immediate supervisor. For each reference, please indicate the nature of your professional relationship and include their title, e-mail address and telephone number.
   4. FINAL COLLEGE TRANSCRIPTS for each of your degrees. Unofficial copies of final college transcripts are acceptable when applying for this position.  Official final college transcripts are required upon hire.
3. HOW TO APPLY ELECTRONICALLY:
   Please submit application materials in PDF format (preferred) to Cooperative Extension Human Resource Development Office online using the Candidate Gateway web URLs below.
   1. Before you get started with the online application process, we recommend you preview the frequently asked questions (FAQs). To do so, please copy and paste the following URL into your browser. https://helpdesk.wisc.edu/images/group61/21900/TAMFAQ_CandidateGateway.pdf
   2. Once you are in the Candidate Gateway, please make sure to click on the Advanced Search link and enter 10356 into the Job Opening ID field.
   3. If you are applying as an applicant who is NOT currently employed by the University of Wisconsin System, please copy and paste the following URL into your browser: https://www.careers.wisconsin.edu/psc/careers/EMPLOYEE/HRMS/c/HRS_HRAM.HRS_CE.GBL?SiteId=31
   4. If you are applying as a current employee of the University of Wisconsin System, please copy and paste the following URL into your browser: https://www.hrs.wisconsin.edu/psc/hrs-fd/EMPLOYEE/HRMS/c/HRS_HRAM_EMP.HRS_CE.GBL?Page=HRS_CE_HM_POST&Action=U&HRS_PERSON_ID=100374

APPLICANT CONFIDENTIALITY:
The University will not reveal the identities of applicants who request confidentiality during the application process, unless or until they become final candidates.  The identities of final candidates must be revealed upon receipt of valid public records requests.  According to the Attorney General, final candidates under Wisconsin Law means the five candidates who are considered most qualified for the position.  See Wis. Stat. Sec. 19.36(7)(a).