JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS:
The College of Agricultural Sciences at The Pennsylvania State University invites applications for a Water Resources Extension Associate 3. This 100% extension appointment will be housed in the Department of Ecosystem Science and Management and will help grow a program focused on sustaining freshwater supplies and maintaining water quality in the state of Pennsylvania.
The successful candidate will develop an extension program that engages with private landowners, state agencies, local businesses, and/or policy-makers to co-design and produce educational materials and applied research products that help Pennsylvanians individually and collectively manage the state’s water resources more sustainably. The Extension Associate will (1) develop an applied research program supported by external funding that addresses persistent or emerging issues of concern regarding the quality or quantify of Pennsylvania’s freshwater supply; (2) use the applied research program to develop scientifically reliable products (e.g., maps, monitoring programs, online dashboards), educational materials (e.g., online courses, videos, brochures, how-to manuals, etc.), and/or citizen science programs that improve management of freshwater resources; (3) serve as a Penn State spokesperson for water resource management by giving public talks, lectures, and policy briefs; and (4) help lead a team of extension educators in the College of Agricultural Sciences who are similarly focused on water resource sustainability.
While extension programing for any aspect of freshwater quantity or quality will be considered, some areas of particular interest include protection of private drinking water supplies, promoting land use practices that improve water quality, control and mitigation of emerging contaminants like pharmaceuticals, nanomaterials, and plastics, managing ponds and lakes to reduce the frequency and magnitude of harmful algal and cyanobacterial blooms, and predicting the establishment and minimizing the spread and impact of aquatic alien invasive species.
The position comes with a competitive salary, flexible work schedule, and opportunity to utilize the full resources of The Pennsylvania State University to create a career that has major impact on management of Pennsylvania’s natural resource. The successful individual will benefit from interactions with the tremendous group of faculty, staff, and students in the Department of Ecosystem Science and Management as well as other departments across campus engaged in water-related research and management.
Qualifications. Typically requires a master’s degree or higher, plus three years of related experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Experience in any area of natural science, social science, or engineering and a background in water resources preferred. Preference will be given to individuals who have worked with private landowners, state agencies, local businesses, and/or policymakers to resolve natural resource problems. The ability to engage professionally with a diverse population of faculty, staff, and students across the university is required.
This position requires that you operate a motor vehicle as a part of your job duties. A valid driver’s license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check will be required in addition to standard background checks.
Application. Candidates should apply for job REQ_0000024881 at https://hr.psu.edu/careers . For full consideration, please upload the following: (1) cover letter, (2) curriculum vitae, (3) names and contact information for three references, and (4) a statement outlining the candidate’s ideas for developing a water-related extension program. Applicants should provide evidence, either woven through their application materials or as a separate diversity statement, of a commitment to fostering diversity, equity, inclusive excellence, and belonging and of engagement which creates an inclusive environment in their classroom, department, and the University. Employment will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.
Applications are due by April 15th, 2022.
The Pennsylvania State University Office of Human Resources
http://www.ohr.psu.edu
The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and sustainability in all of its forms. We embrace individual uniqueness, foster a culture of inclusion that supports both broad and specific diversity initiatives, leverage the educational and institutional benefits of diversity in society and nature, and engage all individuals to help them thrive. We value inclusion as a core strength and an essential element of our public service mission.
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS:
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here .
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.
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University Park, PA