Agronomist Jobs for OPT Students

PURPOSE:

Lincoln University Cooperative Extension (LUCE), an 1890 Land-Grant Institution, seeks a highly motivated Agronomist (State Extension Specialist – Row Crop Systems) to provide statewide leadership in agronomic education and outreach. The Agronomist will design, implement, and evaluate science-based extension programs in row crop systems, including corn, soybeans, small grains, and cover crops, with an emphasis on sustainability, soil health, and profitability for Missouri producers.

This position will serve as a statewide subject-matter expert, working collaboratively with extension educators and specialists, research faculty, USDA agencies, and commodity groups to translate agronomic research into practical, accessible recommendations that strengthen agricultural productivity, environmental stewardship, and economic resilience, particularly among limited-resource and historically underserved farmers.

This is a 12-month Assistant Professor, non-tenure track, full benefit-eligible position, with 100% extension responsibilities located on the main Campus at Jefferson City, MO.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Provide statewide leadership in agronomy and row crop systems, including soil fertility, nutrient management, and sustainable cropping practices.
• Identify statewide needs and emerging challenges in row crop production through assessments and stakeholder engagement.
• Develop and deliver innovative educational programs through field demonstrations, workshops, webinars, and training events.
• Create and disseminate extension materials such as fact sheets, bulletins, manuals, and multimedia resources.
• Collaborate with the university and external partners to integrate applied agronomic research findings into educational outreach.

ADDITIONAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Support adoption of soil health practices, cover cropping, conservation tillage, and integrated pest management (IPM).
• Mentor and support extension educators, program associates, and student interns in agronomy programming.
• Evaluate program outcomes and document impacts using established extension accountability systems.
• Seek external funding (grants, contracts, industry support) to expand agronomic extension initiatives.
• Represent Lincoln University in state and regional meetings, professional conferences, and stakeholder coalitions.
• Participate in professional development and serve as a resource to state and regional agricultural networks.
• Comply with all Extension federal, state, and university reporting requirements.
• Perform other duties as assigned by Extension Administrator(s).

QUALIFICATIONS

• Ph.D. in Agronomy, Crop Science, Soil Science, or a closely related field from an accredited institution.
• Demonstrated experience with field crop production systems, particularly corn, soybean, and small grains.
• Documented success in designing and delivering educational or extension programs for agricultural audiences.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, including the ability to translate scientific information into practical recommendations.
• Demonstrated commitment to serving diverse and historically underserved producers consistent with the 1890 Land-Grant mission.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel extensively within Missouri.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience leading statewide or multi-county extension programs in agronomy or crop systems.
• Familiarity with Missouri and Midwestern cropping environments, soils, and production challenges.
• Proven ability to secure and manage extramural funding.
• Demonstrated record of professional collaboration and teamwork across agencies and stakeholder groups.
• Experience working within a Land-Grant University, preferably an 1890 institution.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Strong technical foundation in crop and soil management.
• Proven leadership and organizational skills.
• Ability to engage with diverse audiences using culturally responsive and inclusive programming approaches.
• Skill in program evaluation and impact reporting.
• Proficiency with digital platforms and tools for outreach and communication.

Working Conditions:

• Frequent travel across Missouri for farm visits, field days, and regional meetings.
• Occasional evening or weekend programming.
• Field work in variable outdoor conditions as needed.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• The position involves fieldwork in all weather conditions and at weekends.
• Lifting or carrying objects (up to 20 lbs.)
• Farm equipment and crop restraining and handling.
• Possible exposure to pesticides, allergens, and animal waste.

REFERENCES:

• Contact information for three professional references.

This job description is not intended to be a complete list of all responsibilities, duties or skills required for the job and is subject to review and change at any time, with or without notice, in accordance with the needs of Lincoln University. Since no job description can detail all the duties and responsibilities that may be required from time to time in the performance of a job, duties and responsibilities that may be inherent in a job, reasonably required for its performance, or required due to the changing nature of the job shall also be considered part of the jobholder's responsibility.