Extension Program Coordinator (Marketing) University of Illinois Extension

$43,000 - $43,000/Yr

University of Illinois - Sterling, IL

Full-time - Entry Level

Sterling, IL

Educational Services

About the position

The Extension Program Coordinator (Marketing) at the University of Illinois Extension plays a vital role in enhancing the visibility and recognition of the Extension and 4-H brand images. This position is responsible for developing strategic marketing decisions that ensure these brands are well represented both online and offline, including print, radio, and television. The coordinator will work collaboratively with Extension staff to identify programming needs and develop targeted strategies to address those needs effectively. In this role, the coordinator will lead marketing and promotional efforts for Extension activities, determining the best promotional methods and compiling necessary information to deliver materials and reports that enhance the visibility of the University of Illinois Extension. This includes assisting in the development of marketing plans aimed at recruiting participants for educational activities, creating advertising and publicity materials such as newsletters, flyers, and web content, and maintaining a photo file of local activities for marketing purposes. The coordinator will also participate in program development across all Extension program areas, collaborating with the County Director, Extension Educators, and volunteers to identify needs and develop educational activities. Networking with local advisory groups and community organizations is essential to assess needs and create relevant educational programs. The role involves facilitating program-related meetings and workshops, as well as assisting in obtaining financial support for programs through sponsorships and fundraising efforts. Additionally, the coordinator will be responsible for disseminating educational information to the public and stakeholders, coordinating the gathering of information for the annual impact report, and assisting in program evaluation to improve ongoing programs. Compliance with Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity policies is required, and participation in professional development opportunities is encouraged to maintain professional competence. The position requires both office work and community engagement, necessitating personal transportation and the ability to work evenings and weekends as needed.

Responsibilities

• Develop strategic marketing decisions to enhance Extension and 4-H brand visibility.
• Collaborate with Extension staff to identify programming needs and develop targeted strategies.
• Determine promotional methods and compile information for marketing materials.
• Assist in the development of marketing plans to recruit participants for educational activities.
• Create advertising and publicity materials, including newsletters, flyers, and web content.
• Maintain a photo file of local activities for marketing and program reports.
• Participate in program development across all Extension program areas.
• Network with local advisory groups and community organizations to assess needs.
• Facilitate program-related meetings and workshops.
• Assist in obtaining financial support for programs through sponsorships and fundraising.
• Disseminate educational information to the public and stakeholders.
• Coordinate the gathering of information for the annual impact report.
• Assist in program evaluation and utilize data to improve ongoing programs.
• Compile media lists and contacts for marketing programs and compliance purposes.
• Submit all required activity and program reports.

Requirements

• High school graduation or GED.
• Four years of responsible volunteer or professional work experience in coordinating educational and/or community programs or activities.
• College coursework in any field of study (60 semester hours equals two years, 90 semester hours equals three years, 120 semester hours or more equals four years).
• Demonstrated experience and/or coursework in marketing, communications, and/or event planning/coordination.

Nice-to-haves

• Specific experience in writing press releases and marketing materials for events and programs.
• Exceptional written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively with others individually and in groups.
• Working knowledge of marketing strategies and techniques.
• Attention to detail and ability to prioritize tasks.
• Ability to multi-task.

Benefits

• Full-time position with a salary of $43,000 per year.
• Participation in staff development and professional development opportunities as funding allows.
• Potential for flexible scheduling based on program needs.