Extension Specialist I/Agent II, Agricultural Engineer

at University of Delaware in Georgetown, Delaware, United States Job Description University of Delaware Equal Employment Opportunity Statement The University of Delaware is an Equal Opportunity Employer which encourages applications from Minority Group Members, Women, Individuals with Disabilities and Veterans. The University's Notice of Non-Discrimination can be found at http://www.udel.edu/aboutus/legalnotices.html

Job No:

503075

Work Type:

Staff Location:

Georgetown, DE Categories:

Engineering, Full Time, Extension and Outreach

PAY GRADE

Grade:

31E (Specialist I) / 30E (Agent II)

CONTEXT OF THE JOB

The Research and Education Center located in Georgetown, Delaware, is the southernmost Agricultural Experiment Station of the University of Delaware's College of Agriculture and Natural Resources. The Center's multi-disciplined staff consists of faculty, professionals, support staff, and miscellaneous wage employees (seasonal). The Center is responsible for conducting Cooperative Extension and Research programs in the areas of agronomic and vegetable crop production; farm and youth safety; 4-H/youth at risk; health and well-being; poultry research and diagnostic programs; Master Gardener educational programs; ornamental horticulture; water quality and nutrient management; irrigation/water management; expanded food and nutrition programs; as well as economic and community development. These programs are aimed at improving the quality of life through the transfer of research-based information to the consumer. At the direction of the Ag Program Leader, the Extension Agricultural Engineer will provide statewide leadership and/or support in irrigation and precision agriculture programming for crop production. This position focuses on grower education, applied research, technology evaluation, and collaboration with extension, industry, and regulatory partners to improve irrigation efficiency, water management, and precision decision-making for Delaware growers. The Agricultural Engineer will develop and disseminate research-based recommendations, lead irrigation-related extension initiatives, and support the adoption of appropriate precision agriculture technologies by the farming community.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES

(Applicable to both levels) Partner with County Agricultural Extension Agents, Faculty Specialists, and others to expand and strengthen the University of Delaware's agricultural irrigation extension program. Collaborate with Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) personnel to evaluate irrigation equipment, systems, and management practices across Delaware and support the continued improvement of NRCS irrigation programs, including standards refinement and delivery of training sessions. Conduct educational programs for vegetable producers, field crop farmers, processors, and agricultural supply personnel in irrigation management, new precision technologies, and farm equipment modifications. Provide hands-on technical assistance and decision-support guidance to growers and industry stakeholders. Establish a high-impact agricultural irrigation program built upon strong relationships with agricultural producers and industry contacts to develop projects that deliver practical, solutions-driven approaches of value and relevance to Delaware growers. Maintain a basic understanding of tillage, planting, application, and harvest equipment to advise researchers and farmers on the selection, calibration, and maintenance of modern farm equipment. Collaborate with specialists to develop tools, recommendations, and decision-support systems that assist farmers with prec Equal employment opportunity, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.

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