Huron County Extension 4-H Program Coordinator

Working/Functional Title Huron County 4‑H Program Coordinator Position Summary Michigan State University Extension is committed to fostering a welcoming and collaborative environment, which requires all staff to contribute toward a vision for success regardless of title or position within the organization. We strive to create a positive culture, access to resources, and a sense of belonging for staff, partners, and programming participants. This means that all staff at MSU Extension are dedicated to the following: As part of MSU Extension (MSUE), the Children & Youth Institute (CYI), and with support from the 4-H Staff Development & Supervising Educator, District Director and Institute Director, this position provides leadership and oversight for growth and management of local 4-H programs, volunteers, and youth participants. Working with the supervising educator, the position will work in concert with the CYI to ensure alignment of programs with overall goals of the Institute and organization. As a member of the Children and Youth Institute, you will recruit, select, and train volunteers who engage with you in the local 4-H Youth Development Program, and ensure that the MSU Extension Volunteer Selection Process is followed. You will identify opportunities for program promotion, expansion, and evaluation, as well as promote the visibility of 4-H and strengthen public understanding of 4-H and MSU Extension programs. You will work to build new partnerships which will result in programs being delivered within schools and community groups. A particular focus is on reaching youth in Huron County. Through your efforts, you will ensure that youth and volunteer audiences are reached through established and newly developed programs, providing leadership to these groups through 4-H clubs, after school programs, youth mentoring, etc. You will provide information and opportunities for learning through the use of technology, mass media, group meetings, workshops, and individual contacts. In this position, you will recruit and train volunteers who will conduct direct programming with youth. You will also conduct some direct programming with youth, but focus will be on developing partnerships and program expansion. Working closely with the District Director and Supervising Educator, you’ll conduct formal and/or informal needs assessments that will drive strategies for program topics and delivery methods. You will lead and advise local 4-H groups in managing funds to support 4‑H youth work and conduct financial management training to 4‑H councils, committees, clubs, etc. on a regular basis. You will be responsible for initiating efforts to expand Extension programs to the unreached, including limited resource families, youth, minorities, and the disabled. Primary program delivery will be through in‑school, after‑school, and short‑term special interest groups. You will plan, organize, and implement youth development programs that are relevant to the needs of residents in Huron County. Additionally, you will be responsible for communicating information about newly implemented and existing 4‑H programs and activities (progress, objectives, target dates, problems addressed, etc.) to your supervisor, District Director, and Institute leadership. Working collaboratively, you will work with other local 4-H staff to prepare and submit the county 4‑H youth development program plan, annual reports, and other necessary reports. You will be provided with professional development to help you build skills and knowledge related to volunteer screening and management, youth development, and program management. Through your work, you will create, promote, and represent MSU Extension in activities, meetings, events, etc. in a manner that reflects collegial connection with the community, the research and knowledge of the University, and the goodwill of MSU Extension. There will be space available to work from the Huron County MSU Extension office. This may be eligible to utilize a flexible work environment; however, there is an expectation to work from an MSU Extension County office. The needs, responsibilities, and opportunities of an individual’s position and office location drive the ability and amount of work‑location flexibility. This position is funded for one year from the date of hire with possible extension contingent upon funding renewal. Characteristic Duties/Responsibilities Train 4‑H volunteers to reach and involve the youth, adults, and families that represent the communities we serve, with non‑formal “learning by doing” experiences. Build new partnerships with schools and community groups with a focus on reaching youth through a variety of program delivery methods. Programs will be delivered by you and/or volunteers. Attend and act in an advisory capacity at 4‑H Leaders’ Council and other program committee meetings, leading volunteers and members in coordination of county‑wide projects and ensuring that all MSU Extension and 4‑H policies are followed. Provide leadership to local volunteer management; ensure on an annual basis metrics are achieved to identify, recruit, select, train, and assist volunteers to teach and advise youth in various programs and activities. Collaborate with the 4‑H Staff Development and Supervising Educator, District Director, Extension Educators, and other program partners to identify, implement, and disseminate MSU Extension’s educational priorities across the state and within communities. Operate independently, ensuring that program delivery follows established guidelines and meets the goals set for reaching the desired number of youths locally and statewide. Use program development and advisory committees and conduct needs assessments in conjunction with local program partners to plan, organize, implement, and evaluate youth development programs, identify needs, opportunities, and carry‑out programming that is relevant to the needs of county residents. Provide leadership, management and oversight of all county‑based financial resources related to 4‑H programs. Support the Children and Youth Institute’s efforts in culture, access, belonging, and Civil Rights, including the availability of 4‑H youth programs and activities, with a special emphasis on removing barriers from participation and reaching populations representative of the communities we serve. Other duties or projects as assigned. Minimum Requirements Bachelor’s degree and two years of experience in program development and management in 4‑H or other youth development program. Volunteer management experience and experience supervising volunteers or others. Combination of education and specific, relevant work experience may be considered in lieu of degree. Demonstrated success in program development and delivery to audiences/communities representative of the communities we serve and proven ability in establishing and working with a network of constituents and community members across diverse backgrounds. Ability to demonstrate sensitivity, knowledge, and use of appropriate approaches, skills, and techniques, reflecting an understanding of social, cultural, and varied economic backgrounds of the target population served. Experience and proven ability working productively with a team serving in both leadership and contributor roles. Strong interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills. Proficiency in use of technology (e.g., Zoom, Qualtrics, Microsoft Teams, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook for mail/calendaring, distance technology, etc.) for day‑to‑day work, record keeping, reporting, and team‑based communications. Travel in local and surrounding communities and occasional long‑distance travel is required as a regular part of this position. Ability to lift and carry educational materials, equipment, etc. up to 25 lbs. Transportation is the responsibility of the employee. Other skills and/or physical abilities required to perform duties of the position. Desired Qualifications Non‑formal education teaching experience. Demonstrated drive and initiative, with proven ability to manage multiple responsibilities and tasks simultaneously. Demonstrated ability to develop and maintain partnerships across audiences reflective of varied backgrounds and perspectives and/or communities. Prior experience performing work in support of external contract and/or grant requirements. Equal Employment Opportunity Statement All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status. Required Application Materials Current resume/CV. Cover letter. Four (4) professional references including at least two (2) prior or current supervisors. Special Instructions This position is funded for one year from the date of hire with possible extension contingent upon funding renewal. This is a union position represented by AFT Michigan. Work Hours Generally 40 hours Monday through Friday, with some nights and weekends needed. Description of End Date This position is funded for one year from the date of hire with possible extension contingent upon funding renewal. Website #J-18808-Ljbffr MSU - Michigan State University