Assistant/Associate Agent, FCHS (Willcox, AZ)

Assistant/Associate Agent, FCHS (Willcox, AZ) Position Highlights: This continuing‑eligible Assistant/Associate Extension Agent in Family, Consumer, and Health Sciences (FCHS) will serve as a key member of the Cochise County Cooperative Extension team, developing and delivering community‑based education programs that improve the health and well‑being of individuals, families, and communities. The position focuses on nutrition, health, food safety, financial literacy, and family wellness. The Agent will assess local needs, design and implement programs, evaluate outcomes, and collaborate with Extension faculty, community partners, and stakeholders to create positive, research‑based impacts throughout Cochise County. Bilingual (English/Spanish) communication skills are preferred to ensure inclusive and effective outreach across communities. Duties & Responsibilities Program Development Conduct thorough analysis of national, state, and local data, along with historical information and community resources, to identify community assets, program needs, and opportunities. Participate in statewide working groups to create innovative and effective programs. Collaborate with Extension and university faculty and staff, experts, and community members to develop interdisciplinary programs, applied research projects, and scholarly works. Identify and secure resources, such as grants, contracts, and in‑kind contributions, to support and enhance programs. Work with community groups, local leaders, Extension advisory groups, and other Extension professionals to develop and implement an annual Plan of Work that addresses county and state needs. Program Implementation Implement innovative programs to address the health and well‑being needs of target audiences. Create educational materials, evaluation tools, teaching resources, and promotional content to support state, county, and community initiatives. Serve as a resource and advocate for family, consumer, and health sciences, collaborating with other agencies and organizations. Encourage and facilitate interaction and cooperation among various community groups and coalitions. Distribute educational materials through county‑wide and multi‑county events, workshops, websites, newsletters, mass media, and volunteers. Lead community outreach efforts for recruiting, training, and recognizing volunteers, and assist them in conducting educational programs as appropriate. Promote effective communication and teamwork with county and state Extension staff, other faculty, and youth professionals. Administration and Reporting Maintain accurate records of program activities, participant engagement, and outcomes. Evaluate and document the outcomes and impacts of programs. Communicate program results to professional peers and clients through reports, scholarly works, and various publications. Supervise and promote training and professional development of staff and students. Consult with the County Extension Director to assess program effectiveness and personal achievements as an Extension faculty member. Professionalism Continuously enhance professional competence through ongoing study, participation in professional activities, and application of new knowledge and skills on the job. Uphold high ethical and professional standards in all aspects of work. Contribute as a cooperative and collegial member of the Arizona Cooperative Extension team. Promote public awareness and support for Cooperative Extension and University programs. Participate in and lead committees, task forces, work groups, community organizations, and professional associations at various levels, both within and outside of Extension. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Excellent program planning, communication, and organizational skills. Ability to manage multiple projects effectively. Knowledge of FCHS programming areas (nutrition, health, food safety, parenting, etc.). Demonstrated ability to secure and manage external funding. Knowledge of southern Arizona’s communities, culture, and public health or nutrition issues. Familiarity with data‑driven decision making and use of program evaluation. Ability to communicate effectively with audiences from socioeconomic and cultural backgrounds. Demonstrated success working with diverse audiences and community partners. Competence with technology and distance‑learning tools. Commitment to the mission and values of Cooperative Extension. Minimum Qualifications Master's Degree or higher in Public Health, Nutrition, Education, Family Studies, or other related disciplines. Minimum of two years of relevant professional experience. Must have a valid driver’s license and ability to drive according to the University Fleet Safety Policy. Must be able to travel statewide and nationally using all modes of transportation. Must maintain a Level One fingerprint clearance card. Preferred Qualifications Experience working with Cooperative Extension, land‑grant universities, or other community outreach organizations. Experience conducting or supporting applied research and program evaluation in community settings. Experience with youth and adult education, including curriculum design and informal learning environments. Experience supervising staff or volunteers. Bilingual (English/Spanish) proficiency. Experience designing, implementing, and evaluating community‑based educational programs. Experience with fiscal management and reporting. Benefits Outstanding U of A benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; access to recreation and cultural activities; and more. #J-18808-Ljbffr