Climate Outreach Specialist - Extension

The Climate Outreach Specialist at the University of Wisconsin System will connect the State Climatology Office with stakeholders to promote climate information and education. Responsibilities include developing outreach programs, coordinating workshops, securing resources, and engaging with media. Candidates should have experience in outreach program development, a strong understanding of climate science, and excellent communication skills. The position is based in Madison, WI and is full-time.
About the position

The Climate Outreach Specialist will act as a liaison between the State Climatology Office (SCO) and various stakeholders in Wisconsin, focusing on disseminating climate information, facilitating educational opportunities, and fostering collaborative relationships. This role is part of a team aimed at enhancing the understanding and adaptation to climate challenges in Wisconsin, particularly through outreach and educational programming within UW-Madison's Division of Extension.

Responsibilities
• Provide expertise and support to Extension educators and outreach specialists to integrate climate-related content into current and future outreach programs.
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• Lead outreach program curriculum development and evaluation efforts, including needs identification and content creation.
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• Coordinate workshops (in person and virtual) to translate and disseminate climate knowledge and foster community engagement.
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• Secure program resources, including identification of future funding needs or grant opportunities.
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• Contribute to the research component of the SCO by identifying relevant topics based on stakeholder engagement and translating research findings to a wide range of audiences.
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• Engage with media (traditional and social) to convey climate-related information.
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• Interact with close SCO partners at the state, regional and national levels.

Requirements
• Experience in outreach program development and administration.
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• Strong understanding of climate science and its implications for Wisconsin.
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• Ability to engage diverse audiences, including students, local governments, and rural and Tribal communities.
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• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
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• Experience in curriculum development and evaluation.

Nice-to-haves
• Familiarity with grant writing and securing funding for programs.
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• Experience working with K-12 educational systems.
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• Knowledge of social media strategies for outreach.

Benefits
• Open salary based on experience and qualifications.