Extension Specialist, Natural Resources, Environment, and Energy (Sustainable Energy)

The University of Illinois is seeking a full-time Extension Specialist in Sustainable Energy to lead educational programs on renewable energy and energy efficiency. Responsibilities include developing outreach programs, collaborating with faculty, and evaluating program effectiveness. Candidates should have a Master's degree and relevant experience in community-based education. The role supports sustainable energy initiatives across Illinois and includes benefits like health insurance and paid time off.
About the position

The Extension Specialist in Sustainable Energy at the University of Illinois Extension is a full-time academic professional responsible for leading educational programs focused on sustainable energy issues, including renewable energy, energy efficiency, and energy planning. This role involves developing outreach programs, collaborating with faculty, and disseminating research findings to enhance community engagement and education in sustainable energy practices across Illinois.

Responsibilities
• Assess community and stakeholder needs to ensure effective resource allocation and program implementation.
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• Develop innovative programming and instructional materials addressing energy issues.
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• Collaborate with Extension faculty to translate research into outreach programming.
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• Provide opportunities for integrating campus-based research into Extension activities.
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• Identify and communicate new practices in community-based programming and train statewide staff and stakeholders.
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• Initiate educational delivery systems, including digital formats, within the subject area expertise.
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• Evaluate the effectiveness and impact of educational programs and share results across Extension units.
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• Lead and implement key statewide sustainable energy outreach projects.
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• Maintain relationships with key leaders and stakeholders in sustainable energy programming.
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• Allocate resources for projects and oversee grant deliverables.
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• Seek funding to support sustainable energy programming.
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• Provide training and technical assistance for statewide staff on programmatic needs.
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• Participate in state and national task forces and working groups.
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• Contribute to the vision of NREE programming and sustainable energy outreach.

Requirements
• Master's degree in renewable energy and sustainability, natural resource planning, public policy and management, environmental studies, or a related field.
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• At least 3 years of relevant experience in program planning and delivering community-based educational programs.
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• Experience working with diverse audiences and informal/formal teaching experience.
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• Skills in synchronous and asynchronous distance educational delivery.

Nice-to-haves
• PhD in a related field.
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• Experience with land-grant University Extension.
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• Experience in energy and sustainability outreach programming.

Benefits
• Generous vacation and sick leave.
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• State Universities Retirement System.
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• Group health, dental, vision, and life insurance.