Position Function:
The Mississippi State University Department of Biochemistry, Nutrition, and Health Promotion seeks candidates for an Extension Associate under the health science initiative Extension program. This Extension Associate position will support diabetes and nutrition education primarily based in central Mississippi and including efforts in counties across the state. This position is hybrid. The successful candidate is expected to work closely with the Extension team to satisfy the goals and expectations of funded projects and may require extensive travel.
Salary Grade: 13
Please see Staff Compensation Structure or Skilled Crafts and Service Maintenance Compensation Schedule for salary ranges. For salary grade UC, these positions are "Unclassified" and salary ranges are determined by the hiring department.
Department Profile:
The newly created Department of Biochemistry, Nutrition & Health Promotion has academic, research and extension education missions within the traditions of land-grant universities. The Department has roughly 35 faculty in biochemistry, nutrition/dietetics, food science, and health promotion disciplines. The Department offers B.S., and Ph.D. degrees and currently advises approximately 400 undergraduate and 30 graduate students.
Anticipated Appointment Date:
August 2024.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
The Extension Associate will be working independently and in a fast-paced work environment. Should be proficient at using Microsoft Office, Adobe, and video teleconferencing tools like Zoom and Canva. The associate should be comfortable making follow-up telephone calls and speaking with program participants via phone, virtually, and face-to-face. Should be comfortable with public speaking and should have strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work comfortably and effectively in culturally diverse environments.
1. Knowledge of basic nutrition and physical activity principles.
2. Strong interpersonal skills for interaction with a diverse group of people including pastors, community health workers, nurses, and other professionals.
3. Ability to work in a changing environment, multi-task, and manage time effectively.
4. Good written and oral communication skills.
5. Reliable internet connection with the ability to video conference and use collaboration tools like Microsoft Teams and Zoom.
6. Work hours could vary, with occasional early morning, afternoon, late evening, or weekend work may be required.
7. The Extension Associate will travel to a variety of counties across the state of Mississippi. All work-related travel will be paid.
8. Perform other duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications:
Education: Bachelor’s degree in nutrition, family and consumer sciences, social work, public health, health promotion, or a field closely related or a Registered Dietitian to be or a Registered Dietitian.
Rank and salary commensurate with education and experience.
Preferred Qualifications:
Master of Science degree. Registered dietitian or Registered dietitian to be: earned a degree from an accredited dietetics program, and completed supervised practice requirement. Work history in community nutrition education.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
1. Ability to read, understand, follow, and enforce project implementation procedures.
2. Knowledge of scientific research principles, practices, and protocols.
3. Ability to design, organize, and coordinate Extension outreach projects.
4. Computer skills for data analysis (MS Excel, SAS, SPSS, etc) are also expected.
5. Social media savvy, developing graphics, writing blogs, developing presentations, and writing curriculum. Work history in providing direct food, wellness, or nutrition education to the public.
Working Conditions and Physical Effort
No unusual physical requirements. Requires no heavy lifting, and nearly all work is performed in a comfortable indoor facility.
Instructions for Applying:
Link to apply: http://explore.msujobs.msstate.edu/
Link to apply: http://explore.msujobs.msstate.edu/
Must complete online application; submit a cover letter, resume, three professional references, and a current unofficial transcript. An official copy of transcripts will be required if selected for an interview. Social security numbers should be redacted prior to submission.
Screening Date:
August 19, 2024, until filled.
Restricted Clause:
Position is contingent upon continued availability of funding.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:
MSU is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, sex, religion, national origin, disability, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, pregnancy, gender identity, status as a U.S. veteran, and/or any other status protected by applicable law. We always welcome nominations and applications from women, members of any minority group, and others who share our passion for building a diverse community that reflects the diversity in our student population.
What do I do if I need an accommodation?
In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act (ADA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation in order to apply for a position with Mississippi State University, please contact the Department of Human Resources Management at tel: (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu.
If you have any questions regarding this policy, contact the Department of Human Resources Management at (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu. Upon request, sections of this job listing are available in large print, and readers are available to assist the visually impaired.
