The University of Maryland College of Agriculture and Natural Resources (AGNR) is a leading Land-Grant institution providing teaching, research, and Extension programs through University of Maryland Extension (UME) to clientele in the State of Maryland and beyond. UME seeks to fill a 12-month, tenure-track faculty position in watershed-based education with a particular focus on green infrastructure and nature-based solutions using technologies and data science, where applicable at individual and community landscape levels. The Regional Watershed Specialist for the Lower Eastern Shore will work in Dorchester, Somerset, Wicomico, and Worcester Counties in Maryland as well as statewide to provide non-formal education and technical assistance to stakeholders, including local and county governments, watershed groups, local non-governmental organizations (NGOs), communities, and individuals. Education programming will focus on practices that improve water quality and quantity at the local level that lead to quantifiable reductions in non-point sources of pollution, as well as improvement of water quantity/quality issues in the face of a changing climate, increasing catastrophic weather events, and intensities in a rapidly urbanizing region and state. The educator will be a member of the University of Maryland Extension’s Watershed Protection and Restoration Program (WPRP), which consists of faculty members with similar educational responsibilities in other regions of the state.
Additional job details:
Location: This position is located off campus on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. The candidate will have the choice between the following office locations: Wicomico County Extension Office (Salisbury, MD) or the Somerset County Extension Office (Princess Anne, MD)
Responsibilities:
The educator aids with efforts such as implementing educational components of local watershed implementation plans (WIPs), local Watershed Stewards Academies (WSA), and actively participates in the Watershed Assistance Collaborative (WAC). The individual will provide educational leadership on important issues and utilize scientific and traditional local ecological knowledge when relevant and appropriate.
The educator will conduct needs assessments to identify research and education program priorities of targeted audiences. The educator will be responsible for working intentionally and collaboratively to increase the visibility and reach of UME programs through educational programming designed to meet the needs of audiences. The position will interpret and disseminate the latest research findings using a variety of delivery and communication strategies appropriate for intended target audiences, including, but not limited to, presentations, one-on-one technical assistance, workshops, classes, demonstration projects, webcasts, social media, publications, mass media, and community coalitions.
In addition to base program funds, the educator will be responsible for securing resources through grants, contracts, program fees, partnerships, and sponsorships to develop a robust Extension program that uses innovative teaching and learning strategies to design, develop, deliver, and evaluate programs that engage participants in a collaborative learning environment and encourage adoption of research-based information in decision-making.
The faculty member will be on track for tenure and promotion to a higher rank in accordance with UMD policy and UME tenure guidelines within the defined timeframe, and will fulfill the teaching, scholarship, and service requirements of a University of Maryland faculty member. In carrying out these duties, the individual reports to the Program Leader & Assistant Director for the Environment and Natural Resources and Sea Grant Program.
Qualifications:
Minimum Requirements –
Master of Science or equivalent in environmental engineering, landscape architecture or design, or related social science or green infrastructure scientific field with an emphasis on technology and stormwater best management practices.
Demonstrable experience in developing and delivering educational and/or Extension programs to audiences in formal or informal settings using a variety of media.
Experience in conducting program evaluation to measure outcomes and appropriate economic, environmental, and social impacts.
Demonstrated leadership and management abilities and evidence of working with colleagues, students, agency personnel, and other clientele. Evidence of the ability to work effectively as a team member.
Evidence of scholarship in research, extension, and outreach.
Knowledge and use of computer technology for educational programming and management.
Evidence of excellent teaching and communication skills. Possess excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Personal transportation and a valid driver’s license are required. Must be willing to travel throughout the state of Maryland. Out-of-state travel may also be required.
Flexible work schedule required for delivering evening and weekend educational programs and activities as determined by clientele availability and need.
This position is subject to a Criminal History Record Check and a University of Maryland Background check. Employment is contingent upon successful completion and clearance of the Criminal History Record Check.
Preferences: - PhD or equivalent in environmental engineering, landscape architecture or design, or related social science or green infrastructure scientific field with an emphasis on technology and stormwater best management practices. - Experience in the above fields - Extension or similar work experience (e.g., work in education, university outreach). - Experience working with volunteers is desirable. - Demonstrated ability in acquiring grants and private funding to enhance research and outreach programming.
Additional Information: Candidate must be eligible to work in the United States at the time of hiring. The department will not provide sponsorship for work-visa requirements.
About University of Maryland Extension
The University of Maryland Extension (UME) is a statewide, non-formal education system dedicated to providing research-based knowledge and educational programs that improve the lives of individuals, families, communities, and businesses across Maryland. We are part of the University of Maryland College of Agriculture and Natural Resources and a vital component of the nation’s land-grant university system.
Our Mission
Our mission is to educate citizens and strengthen communities by translating the latest university and federal research into practical, accessible learning opportunities.
UME empowers Marylanders to make informed decisions that enhance their well-being, economic prosperity, and the health of our natural resources.
We achieve this mission through:
Community-based education and engagement
Partnerships with local governments, organizations, and volunteers
Practical, research-informed programs that address local and statewide needs
Our Program Areas
University of Maryland Extension offers programming in four major areas:
Agriculture and Food Systems – Supporting Maryland’s farmers, agribusinesses, and fo...od producers through research-based best practices in crop production, soil health, farm management, and food safety.
Family & Consumer Sciences – Promoting health, wellness, financial literacy, and nutrition education for individuals and families.
4-H Youth Development – Helping Maryland’s youth build leadership, citizenship, and life skills through hands-on, experiential learning opportunities.
Environment & Natural Resources – Protecting and managing Maryland’s land, water, and ecosystems through conservation education, climate-smart practices, and sustainable solutions.
The Land-Grant University System
The land-grant system was established by the Morrill Acts of 1862 and 1890, which provided federal lands to states to fund public universities that would teach agriculture, mechanical arts, and science for the benefit of all citizens.
Today, every U.S. state and territory has at least one land-grant institution — in Maryland, that’s the University of Maryland, College Park (1862 land-grant) and the University of Maryland Eastern Shore (1890 land-grant).
Through the land-grant mission, UME connects the resources of these universities with the needs of local communities, ensuring that university research directly benefits Maryland’s residents through education, outreach, and applied research.
