As part of Michigan State University Extension (MSUE) and the Community, Food and Environment Institute (CFEI), this position provides local and statewide leadership and educational programming expertise to support MSU Extension's Center for Lakes and Streams and a National Fish and Wildlife Foundation-funded project focused on advancing lake stewardship in Michigan.
The Extension Educator will develop, implement, and evaluate research-based educational programs that promote shoreline best management practices (BMPs), conservation easements, and inland lake stewardship, with a focus on Michigan's Upper Peninsula and Northern Lower Peninsula. Responsibilities include conducting site visits, providing technical assistance, delivering educational programming, supporting shoreline restoration efforts, and increasing adoption of conservation practices.
The successful candidate will collaborate with MSU colleagues and partners including state agencies, Tribal nations, lake associations, contractors, and community groups. This role also includes leading outreach strategies, coordinating multi-agency efforts, developing annual work plans, monitoring program effectiveness, and adapting outreach efforts to meet project goals.
This position may be based in several MSU Extension county offices in the Upper Peninsula, including Iron, Gogebic, Ontonagon, Houghton, Keweenaw, or Baraga Counties. Flexible work arrangements may be available, though regular work from an MSU Extension county office is expected.
This is a full-time, fixed-term position, renewable annually based on performance and continued funding.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and evaluate educational programs addressing statewide inland lake stewardship needs.
- Deliver workshops, trainings, outreach materials, and technical assistance.
- Build and maintain partnerships with agencies, organizations, communities, and stakeholders.
- Conduct community needs assessments and develop responsive programming.
- Serve as an educational resource for clientele, partners, and Extension staff.
- Utilize various communication methods to share research, resources, and program information.
- Collect and report program outcomes and impacts.
- Author educational materials and articles.
- Participate in professional development and support MSU Extension's commitment to accessibility, inclusion, and civil rights.
Required Qualifications
- Master's degree in Aquatic Ecology, Limnology, Fisheries Management, Science Communication, or a related field by date of hire.
- Knowledge of lake conservation practices and environmental management principles.
- Experience in educational program development, delivery, and evaluation.
- Strong interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Teams, Zoom, and other technology platforms.
- Ability to travel regularly throughout local and surrounding communities.
- Demonstrated ability to work effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
- Experience promoting educational programs and understanding civil rights principles and compliance standards.
Preferred Qualifications
- Three or more years of Extension or related educational programming experience.
- Strong project management, organization, and initiative.
- Experience securing and managing grants or contract funding.
Application Deadline: August 31, 2026
