Careers

Subtitle
Be the Change This World Needs

Title
Transformative Work You'll Love

Body

Our programs serve a wide range of individuals, including youth, adults, families, business owners, and community leaders. We offer diverse career opportunities in education, agriculture, environmental stewardship, foods and nutrition, leadership development, and community development. We are always seeking individuals skilled in office administration, program planning, information technology, and communications. As a statewide network of professionals, University of Illinois Extension is dedicated to creating local community impact and driving statewide transformation by translating research and knowledge into practical programs for Illinois residents.

Why Work For Us?

The University of Illinois values, respects, and supports all employees and emphasizes the diverse ways that employees carry out and support the university’s mission.

Featured Job Openings

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Extension Educator, Agriculture and Agribusiness (Horticulture)
Des Plaines, IL

The Extension Educator provides dynamic leadership for community-based education that advances horticulture and sustainable agriculture across Cook County. This academic professional develops, delivers, and evaluates innovative, research-based initiatives in urban and suburban plant production, fruit and vegetable systems, and environmentally responsible pest management. Through strong partnerships with volunteers in the Master Gardener Program, community organizations, and interdisciplinary Extension teams, the Educator expands access to horticulture knowledge and strengthens statewide initiatives in agriculture and agribusiness.

This position requires a master’s degree in horticulture, ornamental horticulture, urban agriculture, entomology, plant pathology, weed science, or a related field. A master’s in progress may be considered if the degree is completed by hire date. Teaching experience in formal or informal settings, along with knowledge of program planning, promotion, and resource development, is required. Preferred qualifications include experience in urban agriculture, demonstrated ability to work with diverse cultural groups, and familiarity with University of Illinois Extension.

Salary Range: $59,000–$82,000.

Job Information Apply - October 13, 2025

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Extension Educator, 4-H Youth Development
Marshall, IL

The Extension Educator provides leadership for community-based education that advances youth development in Clark, Crawford and Edgar counties. This academic professional develops, delivers, and evaluates innovative, research-based programs for 4-H Clubs, youth groups, and educational initiatives focused on leadership, financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and workforce readiness. Working with volunteers, community organizations, and interdisciplinary Extension teams, the Educator expands youth access to educational opportunities, fosters partnerships, and strengthens statewide initiatives in youth development.

This position requires a master’s degree in Youth Development, Education, Community/Public Health, Leadership Studies, Agricultural/Environmental Sciences, or a related field. A master’s in progress may be considered if completed by hire date. Candidates must have experience with youth development best practices and working with diverse youth populations. Preferred qualifications include volunteer management, program planning, evaluation experience, and familiarity with University of Illinois Extension.

Salary Range: $59,000–$82,000.

View Job Information Apply - November 3, 2025

Our Work in Action

Discover the passion and purpose that drives University of Illinois employees as they work to support and uplift local communities. From their beginnings at Illinois to the impactful projects they’re leading today, they share their journeys, motivations, and how they’re shaping the future of community engagement and development.

Explore Opportunities

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College of Agricultural, Consumer & Environmental Sciences Illinois Extension

101 Mumford Hall (MC-710)

1301 W. Gregory Dr.

Urbana, IL 61801

Email: extension@illinois.edu

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