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Looking for a role where relationship building and strategic communication go hand in hand? Interested in helping shape the future of integrated pest management at the regional and national level?

If so, the North Central Integrated Pest Management (NCIPM) Center is seeking applicants for a Partnership and Engagement Extension Specialist! This position will be classified as an Industry Extension Specialist II.

This individual supports the NCIPM Center by developing and strengthening partnerships, coordinating stakeholder engagement, and communicating research-based integrated pest management information to broad audiences across the North Central Region and nationally.

Working with the NCIPM Center Directors and regional partners, this position establishes and facilitates networks and coalitions involving land-grant universities, Extension programs, federal and state agencies, commodity organizations, professional societies, industry, nonprofit organizations, and other stakeholders. The position helps identify emerging needs and opportunities, connects partners with expertise and resources, and supports collaborative Extension and educational initiatives that strengthen integrated pest management programs.

The position also develops science-based communication and educational materials that demonstrate the value and impact of IPM research, Extension, and implementation. This includes translating scientific and technical information for stakeholders, administrators, funding agencies, policymakers, and other audiences.

The successful candidate will have strong written and verbal communication skills, demonstrated ability to build productive relationships, and the ability to coordinate multiple projects involving partners from different organizations and disciplines.

Occasional travel will be involved in this role.

This is a fixed-term position with an end date of 6/30/2028, with the opportunity for renewal.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s degree or higher in Crop Science, Horticulture, Entomology, Pathology, or related field.
• Knowledge of crop production systems, integrated pest management, plant health, agricultural extension, or related agricultural disciplines.
• Experience translating scientific and technical information into clear communications for stakeholders, administrators, funding agencies, policymakers, and other audiences.
• Experience developing content for websites, newsletters, annual reports, impact statements, briefing materials, fact sheets, presentations, and other related products.
• Demonstrated experience developing, strengthening, and managing strategic partnerships among universities, government agencies, industry organizations, commodity groups, nonprofit organizations, or other stakeholder groups.

About NCIPM Center:

The North Central Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Center advances science-based pest management across the twelve-state North Central Region of the United States.

Based at Iowa State University and funded by the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA), the Center connects researchers, extension educators, growers, public agencies, schools, and communities to develop practical solutions for insect pests, weeds, plant diseases, invasive species, and other pest challenges.

Through grants, partnerships, educational resources, webinars, pest alerts, and regional collaboration, the Center helps improve agricultural productivity while protecting human health, pollinators, and the environment. To learn more, please visit NCIPM Center.

Application Instructions:
To apply for this position, please click on “Apply” and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:

• Resume/Curriculum Vitae
• Letter of Application/Cover Letter

Why Choose Iowa State University?
Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental, as well as:

• Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
• Generous vacation, holiday, and sick time and leave plans
• Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
• Life insurance and long-term disability
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Various voluntary benefits and discounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellbeing program

If you have questions regarding this application process, please email [email protected], or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.

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Iowa State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, ethnicity, religion, national origin, pregnancy, sexual orientation, genetic information, sex, marital status, disability, or status as a U.S. Veteran. Inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies may be directed to Office of Equal Opportunity, 2680 Beardshear Hall, 515 Morrill Road, Ames, Iowa 50011, Tel. 515-294-7612, email [email protected].

General ISU compensation information can be found on the University Human Resources website. Please note that this is only a list of ranges and individuals will be paid commensurate with qualifications.