Conduct programming to support beginning and small farmers to help them consider different production and commodity options within their farm business, help them develop the appropriate business recordkeeping system to understand their business financial status, including evaluating different crops or livestock options, the marketing of those products, and the return to their farming business.
This position will provide educational programs and assistance to beginning farmers in Berrien County where a diverse agriculture production economy thrives. Programming will support individuals in considering different production and commodity options within their farm business and help these farmers develop the appropriate business recordkeeping system to understand their business financial status. This position will collaborate with the Farm Business Management Team, the MSU Product Center, and other subject matter teams within the Agriculture & Agribusiness Institute, along with other teams within MSU Extension that support local food marketing chains.
The duties will include assessing the needs of beginning farmers to connect them with educational resources within MSU Extension and with programs available from other farm support organizations. In addition, the position will be part of a team assisting with needs assessments and educational programs for farm markets (such as the development of a farm market assessment process) and other direct marketing opportunities, and act as an agriculture liaison for MSU Extension with other farm support organizations and community food system groups in the region.
This position will be housed at the Berrien County Extension Office, or the Southwest Michigan Research and Extension Center, both of which are located in Benton Harbor, Michigan.
This position may be eligible to utilize a flexible work environment.
Application Deadline: November 17, 2023.
MSU is an affirmative-action, equal-opportunity employer, committed to achieving excellence through a diverse workforce and inclusive culture that encourages all people to reach their full potential. Michigan State University Extension employment opportunities are open to eligible/qualified persons without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, religion, age, height, weight, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status, family status or veteran status.
MSU is committed to achieving excellence through cultural diversity. Persons with disabilities have the right to request and receive reasonable accommodations.
The university actively encourages applications and/or nominations of women, persons of color, veterans, and persons with disabilities.
Minimum Qualifications (see full description for complete list of requirements)
Master’s degree from an accredited institution in a field of study related to animal or plant sciences, agriculture economics or related field must be earned by date of hire.
Michigan State University is the Land-Grant University in Michigan. Michigan State University (MSU) Extension helps people improve their lives by bringing the vast knowledge resources of MSU directly to individuals, communities and businesses. For more than 100 years, MSU Extension has helped grow Michigan’s economy by equipping Michigan residents with the information that they need to do their jobs better, raise healthy and safe families, build their communities and empower our children to dream of a successful future.
Membership is open to individuals, organizations, or firms interested in research and application, instruction, or extension in animal science
or associated with the production, processing, marketing, or distribution of livestock and livestock products.
