Community Outreach Worker (EFNEP)

• University of Illinois Extension University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign life insurance, paid time off, retirement plan United States, Illinois, Chicago Aug 31, 2026 Community Outreach Worker (EFNEP)
• University of Illinois Extension
  Extension
• Unit 6, Chicago (8751 South Greenwood Avenue) WE
  TRANSFORM LIVES.

Everything we do is designed to improve the quality of

life of the people in the state of Illinois, across the nation, and around the

world. We discover, develop, translate, and disseminate knowledge to address

societal concerns and train the next generation of experts and leaders in a way

that empowers them to expand the boundaries of science to higher levels of

understanding and influence. Be a part

of our story. Through

learning partnerships that extend knowledge and change lives, University of

Illinois Extension provides educational programs aimed at making life better,

healthier, safer, and more profitable for individuals and their communities.

Illinois Extension has operated continuously for more than 100 years connecting

the citizens of Illinois to their land-grant university by providing

educational programming around the state. University of Illinois Extension is

based in the College of ACES and works with all colleges and units of the

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Job SummaryThe Community Outreach Worker will teach classes and provide information to local community members (adults and youth) in basic nutrition, physical activity, and buying food for individuals and families in need. The goal is to help EFNEP eligible families make positive changes for their health.

Duties & Responsibilities

Program Delivery

Spend significant time in the community teaching programs for youth and adults using curriculum and materials for EFNEP. This may include gathering and shopping for required materials, prepping food, and leading basic cooking and physical activities at community sites.

Develop relationships and provide approved nutrition education materials and resources to community members and organizations in targeted community.

Promote EFNEP and Extension opportunities in the identified communities.

Collaboration

Collaborate with team members to plan and monitor unit and EFNEP goals.

Refer EFNEP clients to other local agencies (Family Community Resource Centers, WIC, food pantries, etc.) and other Extension staff based upon additional needs/concerns.

Collaborate with team members to find potential community partners that serve low-income families.

Participate in committees and teams to give feedback that improves the EFNEP program.

Reporting

Collect information from program participants for reports.

Complete required monthly and quarterly reports.

Other

Participate in local, regional and statewide professional development opportunities and staff meetings.

Comply with all University of Illinois Extension and USDA policies and procedures in programs and employment.

Perform other duties that contribute to the mission of University of Illinois Extension programming as assigned.

Assist unit staff with gathering program participant demographic information to ensure compliance with civil rights reporting requirements. Physical Demands and Working ConditionsWhen working, the employee may be exposed to a variety of environmental factors to include, but not limited to, hot or cold weather, exposure to noise and allergens, and uneven ground. In performing the functions of this position, the employee may be subjected to various physical demands including ability to move, transfer and/or transport items that may occasionally weigh up to forty (40) pounds and frequently weigh up to twenty (20) pounds, and twisting, pushing and pulling movements. Work Schedule, Travel, or Other Job Expectations To perform the functions of this position, the employee will be required to perform work both within an office and outside in the communities that are served and must have the capability to travel from one location to the other in a timely fashion. Employee is responsible for securing personal transportation. Some work will be required during evenings and/or weekends.

Minimum Qualifications High school diploma or equivalent.

One (1) year (12 months) of experience (paid or unpaid) in work related to the job to be performed. Take and pass the Certified Food Protection Manager course within the first year of employment and maintain certification every five (5) years. Preferred Qualifications Valid driver's license. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Knowledge of the local community and ability to get to community locations in a timely manner.

Ability to interact and engage with all individuals and groups.

Outgoing and self-driven.

Build rapport and connection with clients in an empathetic manner, willing to effectively communicate and validate their feelings. Show kindness.

Willingness to learn and understand new material.

Ability to communicate effectively in person and digitally. This includes texting, phone calls, emails, and video conferencing, as necessary.

Strong people skills and teamwork.

Basic skills in using computer software and apps. Appointment Information This is a 100% full-time Civil Service 4520

• Community Outreach Worker position, appointed on a 12-month basis.

The expected start date is as soon as possible. Salary is $38, 785.50. For more information on Civil Service classifications, please visit the SUCSS web site at https://www.sucss.illinois.gov/pages/classspec/default.aspx. Application Procedures & Deadline Information Applications must be received by 6:00 pm (Central Time) on September 4, 2026. Apply for this position using the Apply Now button at the top or bottom of this posting. In order to be considered as a transfer candidate, you must apply for this position.

Applications not submitted through https:

//jobs.illinois.edu will not be considered. If required by the position, transcripts or other documentation of credentials are to be provided no later than the first day of employment. For further information about this specific position, please contact wbuffett@illinois.edu. For questions regarding the application process, please contact 217-333-2137. At the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

• the state's flagship public university and one of the world's leading research institutions
• every staff member helps shape what's next.

Founded in 1867, Illinois is home to a vibrant community of 59,000 students from all 50 states and 129 countries, supported by 15 colleges and instructional units, more than 20 research institutes, and one of the most comprehensive student service ecosystems in the nation. Whether you're empowering first-generation students, fueling breakthrough innovation, or strengthening communities across Illinois and beyond, your work here has a far-reaching and deeply meaningful impact. The university offers a highly competitive benefits package designed to support your well-being, growth, and financial security. Join a top 10 public university that has launched over 330 startups and continues to redefine excellence

• where the Illinois Value Proposition ensures that your contributions are recognized, your potential is nurtured, and your career can thrive.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used in some portions of the candidate review process for this position; however, all employment decisions will be made by a person. This position is intended to be eligible for benefits. This includes Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, a Retirement Plan, Paid time Off, and Tuition waivers for employees and dependents. The

University of Illinois conducts criminal background checks on all job

candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer. The University of Illinois

must also comply with applicable federal export control laws and regulations

and, as such, reserves the right to employ restricted party screening

procedures for applicants. Out-of-state candidates must establish Illinois

residency within 180 calendar days of the start date for this position.

Illinois residency requires proof of a valid Illinois Driver's License or state

of Illinois ID Card. Failure to produce the required documentation within 180

calendar days will result in immediate termination of employment. Sponsorship

for work authorization is not available for this position. The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. Please visit Required Employment Notices and Posters to view our non-discrimination statement and find additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, and employment eligibility review through E-Verify. Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply and may request a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (2008) to complete the application and/or interview process. Accommodations may also be requested on the basis of pregnancy, childbirth, and related conditions, or religion. Requests may be submitted through the reasonable accommodation portal, or by contacting the Office for Access & Equity at 217-333-0885, option #1, or accessibility@illinois.edu.

Requisition ID:

1037983

Job Category:

Off-Campus Apply at: https://jobs.illinois.edu Apply Now