PURPOSE :
The Extension Associate position will provide support to the State Specialist-Integrated Pest
Management (IPM), in the delivery and strengthening of statewide farmer-focused IPM program in
Missouri. This position directly contributes to the University's mission of serving small farmers, farming communities with limited resources and underserved producers by providing assistance with extension outreach, farmer engagement, on-farm trainings and workshops with emphasis on sustainable vegetable and small fruit production. The IPM Extension Associate will play a vital role in expanding outreach capacity, ensuring that practical, science-driven pest management solutions are accessible to those most in need, thereby improving crop productivity, farm profitability, and long-term sustainability.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS :
- Assist with planning and implementing of IPM program for vegetable crops and small farms that demonstrates measurable impact.
- Support the design, establishment, and monitoring of on-farm IPM research and demonstration trials.
- Collect, organize, and enter field and program data; assist with data analysis (SAS, R, GIS) under Specialist's supervision.
- Assist in developing and formatting extension materials such as fact sheets, technical guides, newsletters, and digital resources.
- Help organize and deliver farmer-focused trainings, workshops, and field days planned by the State Specialist.
- Assist with outreach Assist in developing extension materials (fact sheets, guides, presentations, and digital content) to communicate timely and practical IPM information under specialist review.
- Support collaboration with LUCE satellite offices, regional Impact Centers, farmer networks and volunteers to enhance delivery of IPM education.
ADDITIONAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES :
Perform other duties as assigned by the State IPM SpecialistQUALIFICATIONS
Master's degree in agriculture (Sustainable Agriculture, Plant Science, Entomology, Plant Pathology, Agronomy, or related field)Experience in agricultural outreach, training, or applied research support.Familiarity with data collection and analysis tools (SAS, R, JMP preferred).Basic understanding of IPM principles and sustainable crop production.Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and Personal Characteristics
Strong written and oral communication skills for farmer-centered outreach.Ability to design and deliver educational programs for diverse small farm audiences.Advanced analytical and technical skills for data interpretation and reporting.Willingness to learn and grow in extension program delivery.Cultural competency and ability to engage small and underserved farmers.Certifications, Licenses, Registrations :
Valid driver's license and reliable transportation for statewide travel.Eligibility to operate university vehicles in accordance with institutional policy.PHYSICAL DEMANDS :
Work in both office and outdoor farm environments.Regular travel across Missouri, driving long distances including overnight stays.May require working on weekends and evenings.Ability to lift and carry up to 25 pounds of field equipment, samples, and outreach materials.Extended periods of standing, walking, bending, and working outdoors in varied weatherconditions.
This job description is not intended to be a complete list of all responsibilities, duties or skills required for the job and
is subject to review and change at any time, with or without notice, in accordance with the needs of Lincoln
University. Since no job description can detail all the duties and responsibilities that may be required from time to
time in the performance of a job, duties and responsibilities that may be inherent in a job, reasonably required for its
performance, or required due to the changing nature of the job shall also be considered part of the jobholder's
responsibility.