Extension Associate Forestry and Invasive Plant

TITLE: Extension Associate – Forestry and Invasive Plant

DEPARTMENT: College of Agriculture, Community and the Sciences

REPORTS TO: Sr. Research and Extension Associate Forestry and Natural Resources

EFFECTIVE DATE: Position will remain open until filled

EMPLOYMENT STATUS: Full-time

EMPLOYMENT CLASSIFICATION: Non-Exempt

Internal Candidates are Encouraged to Apply

Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the United States. At this time, Kentucky State University is unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa

PRINCIPAL PURPOSE OF JOB:  The Extension Associate – Forestry and Invasive Plant position in the Forestry and Natural Resources program will support invasive plant management efforts in the Franklin, Owen, and Henry County region of Kentucky.

SCOPE OF RESPONSIBILITY:    This position will coordinate the joint efforts of Kentucky State University (KSU), the Frankfort/Franklin County Joint Task Force on Invasives, and related initiatives to improve natural lands in the target region. These efforts include cooperative invasive plant management, tracking invasive plant infestations, training and education events, and pursuit of funding opportunities.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

Plan and implement invasive plant management efforts in the Franklin, Owen, and Henry County region of Kentucky.Identify and track invasive plant populations and management efforts in the target region.Develop public and professional training and education opportunities and support partner efforts.Provide technical guidance to landowners and professional partners regarding invasive plant management practices and situations.Pursue funding opportunities and develop new partnerships related to invasive plant management.Safely and efficiently operate university vehicles, herbicide application equipment, chainsaws and other land management implements. Professionally represent KSU and the Forestry and Natural Resources program at all times including during outdoor workdays, public events, and professional meetings.Administration, record keeping, and report writing related to project efforts.Travel to project sites and meetings, as needed.

 OTHER DUTIES: The position will conduct other duties as needed.QUALIFICATIONS (required): M.S. in Forestry, Wildlife Management, or related natural resources management field and a minimum of 2 years of related work experience in a professional position.

LICENSING AND CERTIFICATIONS:  Must acquire pesticide applicator license.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, and ABILITIES:            

Experience with invasive plant management and related land management practices in an outdoor setting.Experience with project management, public speaking, and written communication.Experience with GIS mapping.Ability to foster a positive, productive work environment for volunteers of all age groups and experience levels.The candidate must have the ability to work with diverse students, faculty, and staff and demonstrate a commitment to foster an equal opportunity environment for all.Initiative, punctuality, and the ability to work well with a team.
• Ability to work outdoors in adverse conditions for multiple hours at a time.

Ability to lift and carry 50 lbs.Valid driver’s license.

 PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Work will frequently involve exposure to outdoor and indoor conditions. This could involve exposure to unusual elements such as high and low temperatures, rain, snow, dirt, pollen, dust, fumes, smoke, unpleasant odors, fuel, herbicides, and/or loud noises.
• Work will involve responsible use of herbicides, power tools, and mechanical equipment.
• Work will involve exposure to poisonous plants, stinging insects, ticks, snakes, and similar wildlife.
• Requires standing, walking, and hiking in cold, hot, wet, and dry conditions in difficult terrain.
• Requires working in an office setting for multiple hours at a time.

No or very limited exposure to physical risk. Frequent travel during work hours and occasionally overnight travel within Kentucky required.

Revised: 07/26/2023

KENTUCKY STATE UNIVERSITY is an Equal Opportunity Provider

The functions, qualifications, knowledge/skills, and physical requirements listed in this job description represent the essential duties of the job, which the incumbent must be able to perform either with or without reasonable accommodation. The Job Functions listed do not necessarily include all activities that the individual may perform. The College of Agriculture, Community, and the Sciences strives for inclusive excellence and is interested in qualified candidates who can contribute to this effort through their research, teaching, and/or Extension programs