State Specialist for Urban Community Resource Development

TITLE: State Specialist for Urban Community Resource Development                                   

DEPARTMENT: Community Resource Development (CRD)                                       

REPORTS TO: Assistant Extension Administrator

EFFECTIVE DATE: Position will remain open until filled

EMPLOYMENT STATUS: Full-Time                                     

EMPLOYMENT CLASSIFICATION: Exempt                                     

PRINCIPAL PURPOSE OF JOB: As an Extension State Specialist for Urban Community Resource Development, you will be responsible for providing leadership, expertise, and support in the development and implementation of urban community resource programs. Your role will focus on promoting sustainable and equitable urban development, enhancing community engagement, and addressing the unique challenges faced by urban communities. You will work closely with local government officials, community organizations, and stakeholders as a crucial role in supporting urban communities, promoting their growth, and improving the quality of life for residents. Your expertise and leadership will contribute to creating sustainable and vibrant urban environments where communities can thrive

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS: 

• Program Development: Develop and implement programs and initiatives that address the specific needs of urban communities, focusing on areas such as community revitalization, economic development, affordable housing, and environmental sustainability. Create or research best practices into educational materials that extension staff may implement or utilize for programming.
• Community Engagement: Foster partnerships and collaborations with local government agencies, community organizations, and stakeholders to engage and empower urban communities. Organize and facilitate community meetings, workshops, and events to gather input, identify needs, and provide resources.
• Needs Assessment: Conduct comprehensive needs assessments to identify the specific challenges and opportunities faced by urban communities. Collect and analyze data to inform program development and resource allocation.
• Resource Development: Create and curate resources, including publications, guides, toolkits, and training materials, to support urban community development initiatives. Ensure resources are accessible, relevant, and tailored to the unique needs of urban communities. Identify the specific challenges and opportunities faced by urban communities. Collect and analyze data to inform program development and resource allocation.
• Training and Capacity Building: Develop and deliver training programs and workshops for community leaders, local government officials, and stakeholders on topics related to urban community development, including leadership, governance, community planning, and sustainable development practices.
• Policy Advocacy: Advocate for policies and practices that promote sustainable and equitable urban development. Collaborate with policymakers, government agencies, and community leaders to influence decision-making processes and advocate for the needs of urban communities.
• Evaluation and Reporting: Monitor and evaluate program effectiveness and impact. Prepare reports and presentations to communicate program outcomes, success stories, and recommendations for improvement to stakeholders and funding agencies.
• Professional Development: Stay updated on emerging trends, best practices, and research in urban community development. Attend conferences, workshops, and training sessions to enhance professional knowledge and skills.

OTHER DUTIES: The position will conduct other duties as required.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• A master's or doctoral degree in urban planning, community development, public administration, or a related field.
• Experience working in urban communities and a strong understanding of the unique challenges and dynamics of urban development.
• Knowledge of community development principles, strategies, and practices, with a focus on sustainability, equity, and social justice.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills to effectively engage and collaborate with diverse stakeholders.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities to conduct needs assessments, analyze data, and develop evidence-based strategies.
• Ability to lead and facilitate community engagement processes, including workshops, meetings, and group discussions.
• Proficiency in project management, program evaluation, and reporting.
• Familiarity with relevant policies, regulations, and funding sources related to urban community development.
• Demonstrated commitment to inclusivity, diversity, and social equity in community development efforts.

Licensing and Certifications: None

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, and ABILITIES:   

• Strong interpersonal skills, creativity, technological skills, and attention to detail, are important qualities of a skilled program development facilitator.
• Evidence of demonstrated experience in program planning, implementation, and evaluation.
• Ability to interact and gain support from constituencies outside the university such as business and industry, state and federal agencies and non-profit and private foundations.
• Ability to create, compose, and edit written materials. Knowledge of supplies, equipment, and/or services ordering and inventory control.
• Word processing and/or data entry skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality of records and information. Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Ability to maintain calendars and schedule appointments.
• Organizing and coordinating skills Ability to understand and follow specific instructions and procedures.
• Ability to perform simple accounting procedures.
• Skill in the use of operating basic office equipment.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: 

• Work is normally performed in a typical interior/office work environment.
• No or very limited physical effort required.
• No or very limited exposure to physical risk.

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.

KENTUCKY STATE UNIVERSITY is an Equal Opportunity Employer

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.