Position Function:
The Mississippi State University Department of Food Science, Nutrition, and Health Promotion seeks candidates for an Extension Associate under the health science initiative Extension program. This Extension Associate position is primarily based in the central MS area 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 Department of FSNHP at MSU offers an undergraduate degree with concentrations in nutrition and food science. A Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies emphasis area in Health Promotion is offered in cooperation with the Center for Distance Education and the College of Arts and Sciences; the Master of Science degree in the three concentrations of Nutrition, Food Science, and Health Promotion; and the Doctor of Philosophy degree in Nutrition, Food Science, and Functional Foods. Both the department and MSU focus strongly on preparing graduates to excel in their chosen professions
Anticipated Appointment Date:
January 2024.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
The Extension Associate to be hired will be in regular communication with extension agents across the state to support the implementation of diabetes and nutrition education. This person will help develop and pilot new nutrition education program (s) statewide. They will assist Ms. Madkin in engaging and coordinating with extension agents and assist in other project efforts as needed, including but not limited to collecting data, developing reports, assessing programs, implementing programs, and evaluating programs. They will also submit all necessary reports to the project PI and will assist in other areas as needed to ensure successful project implementation.
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:
Bachelor’s degree in nutrition, family and consumer sciences, social work, public health, health promotion, or a field closely related. 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.
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.
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:
January 2, 2024 until filled.
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 (ADAAA), 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.
