This position is based in Ainsworth, NE, with the geographic accountability region of Brown, Rock, and Keya Paha Counties. This is a Livestock Systems extension professional position that will focus on all facets of an integrated livestock system and will develop co-learning engagements for clientele and stakeholders in the beef and/or small ruminant industry.

The agriculture sector is the greatest economic driver in Nebraska. The livestock sector is a major driver of the economy in Nebraska. Of the agriculture sector in Nebraska, beef cattle are the largest economic driver. Communities across Nebraska thrive when there is a robust, profitable economic livestock sector. Nebraska Extension’s role is to catalyze opportunities for the livestock sector to make informed decisions that are supported by research. Extension is a solution centric organization so core to this role is the ability to engage producers and allied industry and commodity groups in learning and sharing opportunities. Expected outcomes include: 1) engagement strategies based on lasting and trusted relationships with livestock producers, leaders in the livestock industry, livestock allied industries, and commodity groups with ties to the livestock industry, 2) educational opportunities that result in better stewardship of resources and greater profitability that enhances quality of life, and 3) engagement in education that result in solutions that encompass all components of livestock production systems (natural resources, production management, and financial).

This livestock focused extension professional will contribute to the integrated (extension, research, and teaching) land-grant mission of IANR as an effective scholar and citizen. Nebraska Extension is an organization that values excellence and as a member of the Nebraska Extension team you are expected to create and deliver world-class learning experiences focused on critical issues that empower Nebraskans to improve their quality of life and stewardship of their resources. This position is a direct report to the Extension program area leader for Livestock Systems.

This twelve-month, non-tenure track position carries the title of extension instructor or open rank extension educator, 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 open rank 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 toward 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.

Nebraska Extension professionals are committed to engaging with community partners, organizations, and all audiences, as well as individuals in ways that reflect an understanding and value for individual differences. Nebraska Extension strives to ensure that innovative programming, translational research, and learning opportunities promote equity and inclusion.

Some travel is required. Must meet driver standards according to UNL policy and have a valid driver’s license.

Recognizing that diversity 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, Extension programming, and work environments that are inclusive of all forms of diversity. Consistent with the University’s N2025 Strategic Plan, we see every person and every interaction as important to our collective well-being and our ability to deliver on our mission.

This position is not eligible for employment-based permanent residency sponsorship. UNL may be able to sponsor 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. Seehttps://www.unl.edu/equity/notice-nondiscrimination.

Click “Apply for this Job” and complete the faculty information form. Attach the following documents:

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 inclusive environments in which every person and every interaction matters. See https://ianr.unl.edu/tips-writing-about-commitment-to-deib for guidance in writing this statement.

Marci Sturek
msturek2@unl.edu