Apply for Job Job ID372841 LocationAll Other -See Job Description Job FamilyEducation Full/Part TimeFull-Time Regular/TemporaryRegular Job Code9741PD Employee ClassAcad Prof and Admin Add to Favorite Jobs Email this Job About the Job Working Title: 4-H Animal Science Program Director Appointment:Full time, Ed Pro 5-Ed Prog Dev & Implmt (job code 9741PC) Office Location:St. Paul Campus or another Extension Regional Office, hybrid flexible work options available Pay Range: $78,000-$90,000 Apply By:April 5, 2026 About the Position The University of Minnesota Extension Department of Youth Development partners with communities to prepare young people as they learn and lead in a rapidly changing world. The 4-H Animal Science Program Director provides statewide leadership for one of Minnesota 4-H's signature program areas. This role sets the vision and strategy for dynamic, research-informed animal science programming that engages youth across rural, suburban, and urban communities. The Director mobilizes youth leaders, educators, volunteers, and academic and industry partners to design meaningful learning experiences that connect animal science to leadership development, career pathways, and real-world application. The position leads program innovation, strengthens educational and career pathways, and stewards policies, practices, health, and safety standards that ensure program quality and integrity statewide. In partnership with regional educators, the Director elevates high-impact learning experiences-including showcases, competitive events, conferences, and national opportunities-where youth demonstrate skill, knowledge, and leadership. As a member of the Youth Development Leadership Team, this statewide leader advances excellence, access, and relevance in Minnesota 4-H animal science and reports to the Youth Development Associate Dean and Department Head. Responsibilities4-H Animal Science Leadership and Extension Teaching 70% Create statewide sustainable program models to grow, diversify and improve local, regional and state animal science programs. Work collaboratively with other educators, industry and university partners, volunteers and youth to implement statewide. Develop ways to measurably engage new and existing youth audiences statewide with animal science programming. Design, implement and evaluate statewide animal science programs and curricula that serve as transformative experiences for young people and expand programming by working strategically with other educators, volunteers, partners and youth. Develop, review and continuously improve educational materials, tools, training, and resources - such as Livestock Quality Assurance and Ethics, judges training, and youth leadership programs - that reflect rigorous research, cutting edge and diverse viewpoints. Lead a team of 4-6 regional Extension educators by providing strategic work direction, mentoring and evaluative feedback to ensure the expansion and alignment of animal science programming statewide. Identify complex issues that involve organizational systems, policies and rules. Lead the resolution of multi-faceted problems by consulting with diverse stakeholders to develop solutions that balances program integrity with positive youth development. Collaborate with other statewide youth development directors (e.g., STEM & Agriscience, Civic Engagement & Leadership, Healthy Living) to create cross-program strategies that strengthen our impact on youth. Create educational, career, and leadership pathways for youth in animal science. Develop tools and experiences to help youth see a future for themselves in the industry. Lead animal science project areas, curate digital resources, and serve as the subject matter expert to educators, volunteers, youth and partners Assess development needs related to animal science and lead the design of training - including online and face-to-face sessions - for Extension educators, volunteers and other Minnesota youth workers. Develop and regulate policies to ensure program integrity, efficiency, fairness and the safety of all youth and adult participants. Oversee the planning and execution of statewide showcases (e.g., animal science project bowl series, state fair livestock and companion animal shows, dog show and horse show) and national trip participation related to animal science. Manage systems that keep the program compliant and safe, including animal identification and eligibility and species-specific exhibit requirements. Track and report participation rates to stakeholders, monitor biosecurity and zoonotics protocols, and collaboratively develop proactive, integrative action plans for animal health and safety. Expand and strengthen animal science programs by securing resources through grants, donor gifts, and industry partnerships. Lead strategic budget development and collaborate with University of Minnesota Extension Development team to connect donors to program priorities. Scholarship - 15% Partner with the youth development evaluation team to design and implement program evaluation and distribute results in collaboration with the communication team Participate in scholarship activities which will enhance and advance animal science youth programming in Extension (e.g., peer-reviewed publications, educational materials, popular press articles, technical reports, white papers, web resources). Share findings through educational blogs, podcasts, conferences and professional conferences. Engagement and Service (15%) Build partnerships with businesses, industry leaders, academic institutions, UMN departments, and community organizations and agencies, to support and promote MN 4-H'ers in their animal science learning. Foster and steward strategic partnerships with key stakeholders, including Minnesota Livestock Breeders Association (MLBA), Minnesota Board of Animal Health, UMN College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Science animal science and UMN Extension Agriculture Natural Resources animal science scholars, Minnesota Department of Agriculture/livestock division, FFA, and livestock industry partners Recruit, advise, coordinate and mobilizeyouth leaders, adult volunteers and partners to effectively steer animal science programming, including existing program development and livestock and companion animal show committees. Participate in UMN Extension, UMN, professional and community service opportunities Be an active member of organizations and groups that support animal science programming for youth Qualifications Required Qualifications A completed master's degree at the time of appointment in youth development, education, animal science, agriculture, or related field. At least four years' professional experience in animal science education, agricultural education, or related experience developing and evaluating youth programming (K-12). Record of leadership, teaching and scholarship related to animal science. Skill in the application of data and research to design, develop and deliver youth and adult education. Demonstrated ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with... For full info follow application link. The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds. The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu.
