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Imagine building a stronger future for your own community

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Local Careers

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At Illinois Extension, you'll develop programs, extend knowledge, and build partnerships that support local families, farms, businesses, and communities. Join us in empowering and growing resilient communities that make a lasting impact in your own backyard.

Transformative work you'll love

We create impact.

University of Illinois Extension is a statewide network of professionals dedicated to creating local community impact and statewide transformation. We do this by translating research and knowledge into practical programs for Illinois residents. Our programs target youth and adults, individuals and families, as well as business owners and community leaders.

Illinois Extension is 'the kitchen table' of the University of Illinois, connecting the power of Illinois' land-grant University to local communities, creating local impact. Just as people gather around the kitchen table to solve problems and support one another, Extension connects local communities with trusted expertise and opportunities that help individuals, families, businesses, and communities thrive.

There's a place for you at Illinois Extension.

Our team includes educators, coordinators, specialists, communicators, IT professionals, office support staff, and program leaders who are passionate about public service and lifelong learning. Whether your strengths are in teaching, administration, technology, communications, or community engagement, there may be a place for you at Illinois Extension.

Competitive benefits including:

  • Vacation, sick time, paid holidays
  • Health, vision, dental and life insurance
  • Retirement plan
  • Tuition reimbursement opportunities for you and your dependents
  • Paid travel, professional development opportunities, and continuing education

Learn more online about University of Illinois benefits.

Extension staff member gardening with youth

What's it like to work for Illinois Extension? 

Read the stories from some of our Illinois Extension staff members:

Nancy, Hort Educator Emilia, 4-H Educator Nicole, Office Support Brooke, Marketing

Current Grundy, Kankakee, and Will County openings

U of I is an EEO Employer/Vet/Disabled (see: go.illinois.edu/EEO) that participates in the federal e-Verify program and participates in a background check program focused on prior criminal or sexual misconduct history.

Extension Educator, 4-H Youth Development (STEAM/AG) — Bourbonnais, Ill

Previously determined salary range for this position was $59,000 to $82,000. 

Help inspire the next generation of youth to be Beyond Ready for life through hands-on learning in science, technology, engineering, arts, and agriculture. The 4-H Youth Development Educator (STEAM/Ag) based in Bourbonnais will lead innovative youth programs, build community partnerships, and create meaningful learning experiences across Grundy, Kankakee, and Will counties. Working with volunteers, schools, and local organizations, you'll empower youth with the confidence, leadership, and career-ready skills they need to thrive.

Master’s degree in related field from an accredited institution of higher education required. Candidates with a Master’s degree in progress may be considered for interviews, but degree must be completed by hire date.

Apply on the Illinois Job Board by August 20

Learn more and apply

Extension Educator, 4-H Youth Development  — Bourbonnais, Ill

Previously determined salary range for this position was $59,000 to $82,000. 

Help inspire the next generation of youth to be Beyond Ready for life through meaningful 4-H experiences that build confidence, leadership, and lifelong skills. The 4-H Youth Development Educator based in Bourbonnais will provide leadership for 4-H programs across Grundy, Kankakee, and Will counties, supporting volunteers, building community partnerships, and expanding opportunities for young people to learn, grow, and thrive. Working alongside dedicated volunteers, families, schools, and community organizations, you'll help shape high-quality experiences that prepare youth for success in school, careers, and life.

Master’s degree in related field from an accredited institution of higher education required. Candidates with a Master’s degree in progress may be considered for interviews, but degree must be completed by hire date.

Apply on the Illinois Job Board by August 20

Learn more and apply

Extension Program Coordinator (Agriculture and Natural Resources) — Joliet, Ill

Salary: $43,000

Help cultivate stronger communities by empowering volunteers to share their knowledge and passion for the natural world. As the Extension Program Coordinator (Agriculture and Natural Resources) based in Joliet, you'll support the Master Gardener, Master Naturalist, and Master Composter programs by recruiting and training volunteers, coordinating educational programs, and building partnerships that expand Extension's impact across the community. Working alongside dedicated volunteers and local organizations, you'll help connect people of all ages with research-based horticulture and environmental education that makes a lasting difference.

Apply on the Illinois Job Board by August 14

Learn more and apply

Extension Program Coordinator (4-H)  — Morris, Ill

Salary: $43,000

Help inspire the next generation of youth to be Beyond Ready for life through meaningful learning experiences that spark curiosity, build leadership, and strengthen communities. As the 4-H Extension Program Coordinator based in Morris, you'll help expand 4-H opportunities by supporting volunteers, connecting with schools and community partners, and creating engaging programs that empower young people to discover their potential. Working alongside dedicated volunteers, families, and local organizations, you'll help deliver high-quality youth development experiences that prepare young people for success in school, careers, and life.

Apply on the Illinois Job Board by August 14

Learn more and apply

View all Extension positions across the state

View all open Extension positions

Why Illinois Extension?