Extension Program Coordinator (4-H Stem) University of Illinois Extension

University of Illinois - Marshall, IL

Full-time

Marshall, IL

Educational Services

About the position

The Extension Program Coordinator for 4-H Youth Development at the University of Illinois Extension plays a vital role in promoting, expanding, and implementing educational programs focused on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) for youth in schools and communities. This position is integral to the mission of the University of Illinois Extension, which aims to improve the quality of life for individuals and communities through educational programming. The coordinator will work closely with Extension Councils, committees, and staff to plan, promote, implement, and evaluate youth programs, ensuring that they meet the needs of the community and align with the goals of the Extension's mission. In this role, the coordinator will be responsible for developing program materials and activities, which may include utilizing nationally recognized curriculum. Specific tasks will involve arranging facilities and equipment, recruiting and placing volunteers, promoting programs through various media channels, collecting participant feedback, and preparing reports that detail program accomplishments. The coordinator will also collaborate with the County Extension Director and other staff to identify critical needs and issues related to youth development within the multi-county unit. The position requires the coordinator to assist in formulating and implementing standard operating procedures for program activities, ensuring the safety and welfare of all participants. Additionally, the coordinator will be tasked with collecting, processing, and maintaining program records and data, conducting evaluations of program activities, and making recommendations for program continuation, modification, or discontinuance. Regular reporting, participation in professional development opportunities, and compliance with University of Illinois Extension policies are also essential components of this role. The position involves both office work and community engagement, necessitating access to transportation and attendance at evening and weekend events.

Responsibilities

• Plan, promote, implement, and evaluate youth programs in STEM areas.
• Develop program materials and activities in collaboration with Extension Educators and Campus Specialists.
• Arrange for facilities and equipment for program activities.
• Recruit and place volunteers in key roles for program execution.
• Promote programs through various media channels.
• Collect feedback from participants and prepare reports on program accomplishments.
• Identify critical needs and issues related to youth development in the multi-county unit.
• Assist in formulating and implementing standard operating procedures for program activities.
• Collect, process, and maintain program records and data.
• Conduct evaluations of program activities and recommend changes as necessary.
• Submit monthly and quarterly reports on program activities.
• Participate in relevant professional development opportunities.
• Facilitate programming in youth development with Extension staff and other professionals.
• Comply with University of Illinois Extension Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity policies.

Requirements

• High school graduation or GED.
• Four years of responsible volunteer or professional work experience in coordinating educational and/or community programs or activities.
• Experience in volunteer management, working with youth audiences, and/or developing youth programming is preferred.
• College coursework in any field of study is beneficial.

Nice-to-haves

• Skills in communicating and collaborating with diverse audiences.
• Ability to work effectively with individuals and groups.
• Attention to detail and ability to prioritize tasks.
• Ability to multi-task.