Extension Instructor or Open Rank Extension Educator

Livestock Systems – Beef Quality Assurance

University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Do you have the drive to help make a positive difference in beef cattle production in Nebraska? Can you develop, deliver, and determine the impact of comprehensive programming that includes integrating current technologies and management concepts into beef quality assurance training? Do you have experience in coordinating programs and engaging with others to expand educational opportunities? Nebraska Extension is an organization that values individuals who excel, adapt easily, exhibit a passion for helping others, and are excellent communicators. Nebraska Extension is looking for an Extension professional to provide statewide expertise and coordination in Beef Quality Assurance and Transportation Quality Assurance programming in Nebraska.

We have an excellent opportunity for an Extension professional to provide statewide expertise and coordination in Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) and Transportation Quality Assurance (TQA) programming in Nebraska. This is a full-time faculty position located in Nebraska. The office location will be determined by extension administration in consultation with the candidate and must be within the state boundaries. This position will focus on livestock systems with an emphasis on beef quality assurance programming, which includes Transportation Quality Assurance. The Extension professional will coordinate BQA and TQA efforts across the state and work with a group of trainers and educators to expand and enhance overall BQA educational opportunities.

As a member of the UNL Extension team you will collaborate with research and extension faculty who are leaders in their field. You will work with high performing teams to create and deliver world class, innovative learning experiences that empower Nebraskans to improve their lives around critical issues. We want individuals who are self-directed and able to work in a flexible environment. We invite you to learn more about this role and Nebraska Extension using the following links: Our Strategic Direction | Nebraska Extension and Nebraska Extension – Livestock Systems.

This twelve-month, non-tenure track position carries the title of extension instructor or open rank extension educator, depending on the candidate’s level of education. Those possessing a graduate-level degree in the requested area of instruction will be considered for an educator position, a full-time, promotable, non-tenure track appointment. Those in possession of an undergraduate degree in the requested area of instruction will be considered for an instructor position, a full-time, non-promotable, non-tenure track appointment that will be renewed annually for a maximum of five (5) years in the appointment. If hired as an instructor, the incumbent will be expected to make satisfactory progress toward and complete a master’s degree within the initial five-year appointment period. As part of the Nebraska benefits package, UNL offers tuition remission for full-time employees, up to 15 credit hours per year. Once the master’s degree is earned within that period, the position will advance to an assistant extension educator appointment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working with individuals, coworkers, and teams to accomplish individual and/or group goals, as evidenced by college, career, and/or community activities.
• Outstanding leadership skills as demonstrated by roles in college, career, and/or community activities.
• Ability to utilize electronic and online technologies for educational program delivery.

Recognizing that collaboration and participation in teams enhances creativity, innovation, impact, and a sense of belonging, the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources (IANR) and Nebraska Extension are committed to creating learning, research, and Extension programming environments where the unique contributions of each individual are acknowledged and valued. Consistent with the University’s N2025 Strategic Plan, we see every person and every interaction as important to our collective wellbeing and our ability to deliver on our mission.

This position is not eligible for employment-based permanent residency sponsorship. UNL may be able to sponsor temporary work authorization (e.g., H-1B) for the successful candidate.

Application Process

Review of applications will begin July 14, 2025 and continue until the position is filled or the search is closed. For a detailed position description, required materials, and application process, go to https://employment.unl.edu, requisition F_250047. Click “Apply for this Job” and complete the faculty information form. Attach 1) a letter of interest that describes your qualifications for the job and anticipated contributions, 2) your curriculum vitae or resume, and 3) contact information for three (3) professional references. In addition, within the application, please complete the required supplemental question(s), one specifically describing your experience working in teams or groups and your anticipated contributions to creating environments in which every person and every interaction matters. For guidance in writing this statement, see https://ianr.unl.edu/guidance-applicant-statements-about-contributions-teams-or-groups/.

As an EO/AA employer, the University of Nebraska considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, and/or political affiliation. See https://equity.unl.edu/notice-nondiscrimination/.

Required Qualifications

• Master’s degree in animal science, veterinary science, or similar field with an emphasis in beef cattle systems or meat science (extension educator); OR bachelor’s degree in animal science, veterinary science, or similar field with an emphasis in beef cattle systems or meat science (extension instructor). If hired as an instructor, the incumbent will be expected to make satisfactory progress toward and complete a master’s degree within the initial five-year appointment period.
• Successful experience teaching beef systems and/or beef quality assurance principles.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate (i.e., publications, presentations, web, and social media).
• Experience in beef systems – integrating beef cattle systems concepts and technologies into beef management that is relevant to Nebraska agricultural systems.