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Transformative Work You'll Love
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
Extension Educator, Agriculture and Agribusiness (Local Food Systems and Small Farms)
Murphysboro, IL
The Extension Educator, Agriculture and Agribusiness (Local Food Systems and Small Farms), provides leadership in developing, delivering, and evaluating educational programs that strengthen local food systems and community-based agricultural production. This position focuses on research-based education for growers, schools, decision-makers, and other stakeholders in areas including fruit and vegetable production, food marketing, food safety and Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs), school and community gardens, integrated pest management, and agricultural collaboration. Working collaboratively with Local Food Systems/Small Farms, Horticulture, and Family and Consumer Economics Extension Educators, as well as community partners and agricultural stakeholders, the Educator builds networks, expands local food opportunities, and supports statewide Extension priorities.
This position requires a master’s degree related to the subject matter, such as agricultural economics, agronomy, animal science, entomology, horticulture, plant pathology, soil science, weed science, or a related field. Candidates must have informal and/or formal teaching experience. Preferred qualifications include agriculture experience, experience with agricultural research or demonstrations, the ability to organize educational activities for adult audiences, knowledge of program planning and resource development, and experience with University of Illinois Extension.
Salary Range: $59,000–$82,000
Extension Educator, 4-H Youth Development
Bourbonnais, IL
The Extension Educator coordinates educational programs in 4-H Youth Development, focusing on positive youth development, volunteer leadership, and educational outreach. Responsibilities include program development, delivery, and evaluation; leading multi-county youth programs; guiding volunteers and staff; building community partnerships; and supporting statewide initiatives.
This position requires a Master’s degree in Youth Development, Education, Public Health, Leadership Studies, Agricultural/Environmental Sciences, or a related field. Experience in youth development programming and the ability to work effectively with diverse audiences is preferred. The position involves travel and physical tasks.
Salary Range: $59,000 to $82,000
Extension Educator, 4-H Youth Development (STEAM/AG)
Bourbonnais, IL
The Extension Educator, Youth Development (STEAM and Agriculture), provides leadership in developing, delivering, and evaluating educational programs that support youth development and prepare young people for future careers, post-secondary pathways, and leadership opportunities. This position focuses on creating high-quality learning experiences through Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts/Agriculture, and Math (STEAM/Ag), Positive Youth Development, career readiness, and 4-H programming. Working collaboratively with youth, volunteers, schools, employers, community organizations, and other partners, the Educator strengthens community capacity, expands access to learning opportunities, and supports statewide youth development initiatives.
This position requires a master’s degree in youth development, education, community or public health, leadership studies, agricultural or environmental sciences, engineering, or a related field. Candidates must have knowledge of and experience with youth development best practices and STEAM and agriculture programming. Preferred qualifications include experience working with youth in informal and educational settings, planning and evaluating youth programs, supporting diverse youth audiences, and experience with University of Illinois Extension.
Salary Range: $59,000–$82,000
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.