Senior Research and Associate in Forestry

TITLE: Senior Research and Extension Associate Forestry and Natural Resources

DEPARTMENT: College of Agriculture, Community and the Sciences

REPORTS TO: Senior Research and Extension Associate - Forestry

EFFECTIVE DATE: Position will remain open until filled

EMPLOYMENT STATUS: Full-time

EMPLOYMENT CLASSIFICATION: Exempt

PRINCIPAL PURPOSE OF JOB: The Senior Research and Extension Associate will oversee the scheduling and implementation field-based research and extension projects and staff training within the Forestry and Natural Resources program.

SCOPE OF RESPONSIBILITY: This state-wide position will be responsible for the scheduling and implementation of field work related to forest health, pollinator habitat, and agroforestry research and Cooperative Extension activities. This position will also coordinate staff training related to equipment use, safety, licensing, and certifications within the Forestry and Natural Resources program.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

Coordinate the scheduling and implementation of field work for ongoing research projects in cooperation with other program staff.
Coordinate equipment and safety training, licensing, and certifications for program staff and students.
Work with program staff and partners to plan and implement state-wide demonstration trials and practices on program-related topics.
Work with program staff and partners to plan and implement extension programs for private landowners and natural resource professionals related to forest health, invasive species, pollinator habitat, agroforestry, natural areas management, and remote sensing tools.
Operate equipment and tools used in land management and agriculture.
Supervise, train, and mentor graduate and undergraduate students in the forestry and natural resources program.
Work with other partners and Kentucky State University programs to identify and address forestry- and natural resources-related needs.
Author project reports and develop extension media.
OTHER DUTIES: This position will conduct other duties as required.

QUALIFICATIONS: Required: M.S. in agriculture or related natural resources area. 5+ years of relevant experience.

LICENSING AND CERTIFICATIONS: Must acquire pesticide applicator and FAA drone licenses.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, and ABILITIES:

Extensive experience with project management including scheduling, inventory, and staff supervision.
Extensive experience with the operation and maintenance of equipment used in agriculture and natural resources, including but not limited to trucks, trailers, tractors, skid steers, tractor and skid steer attachments, brush cutters, chainsaws, mowers, tillers, and herbicide applicators.
Experience performing land management and agriculture practices.
Experience training and educating audiences of all age groups and experience levels.
Experience developing and maintaining positive, cooperative relationships with partnering entities.
Experience developing written, technical guidance.
Experience coordinating regulatory licensing, certifications, and training requirements.
Ability to effectively communicate orally and in written and video formats.
Ability to establish and maintain effective and positive working relationships.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Work involves operating hand tools, power tools, chainsaws, herbicide applicators, tractors, ATV/UTVs, and related land management/agriculture tools and equipment in outdoor settings for extended periods.
Ability to carry at least 50 lbs. in indoor and outdoor settings.
This job involves frequent statewide travel.
This job requires work in adverse outdoor conditions.

Revised: 2/8/2023

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. 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.