The LSU Agricultural Center is a statewide organization with offices in every parish of Louisiana. The LSU AgCenter is seeking a dynamic and experienced program evaluation specialist to join our team. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in supporting agents, researchers, and specialists by providing training, guidance, and resources in evaluating programs that address existing needs within our community. This position requires a deep understanding of AgCenter programming and Cooperative Extension principles and the ability to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders.
Work Location: Knapp Hall, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, 70803.
Position Description: The Instructor position’s primary purpose is program evaluation and organization development training and support. This position reports to the Associate Director for LCES Administration. Specific duties are as follows:
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60% Collaborate with other specialists to develop evaluation metrics and methodologies to assess the impact and effectiveness of statewide programs. Provide training sessions, workshops, and resources to enhance the skills of agents, researchers, and specialists in designing effective program evaluations. Offer guidance on needs assessment and evaluation. Curate and develop resources, including educational materials, templates, and best practice guides, to support program evaluation efforts. Ensure resources are accessible, relevant, and evidence based. Collaborate closely with agents, researchers, and specialists to assist them in program evaluation projects. Offer ongoing support and mentorship to ensure the successful evaluation of programs.
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25% Provides development opportunities for extension employees to ensure organizational goal achievement, including but not limited to strategic planning, team building, and organizational culture, commitment, and engagement.
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10% Collaborate with faculty and administration to generate federal reports. Provide technical guidance for the leadership team and various unit heads regarding professional development, program evaluation, and federal reporting processes.
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5% Collaborate with ODE staff to keep unit website up-to-date. Perform other duties and/or special projects as assigned.
Minimum Qualification Requirements: Master’s degree in Extension Education, Agricultural Education, or other discipline related to the duties of the position. Strong background in Extension program development and evaluation. Proven experience in providing training, guidance, and resources to individuals or teams involved in program evaluation activities. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively collaborate with diverse stakeholders. Knowledge of agricultural, environmental, or community development issues relevant to the state is desirable. Ability to work independently and as part of a team, demonstrating initiative and creativity in problem-solving.
LSU and the AgCenter are dedicated to fostering an environment where our employees feel appreciated for their skills and individual qualifications. If a candidate does not meet the minimum qualifications listed but has other qualifications or substantial experience related to the key responsibilities, we encourage them to apply (per La. RS 42:36).
Salary and Benefits: Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience. The LSU AgCenter has an attractive benefits package with a wide variety of benefit options. Benefits offered include retirement, multiple medical insurance options, supplemental insurances (dental, life, long-term disability, accident, vision, long-term care, etc.), Tax Saver Flexible Benefits Plan (saves tax dollars on some child care and medical expenses), university holidays (14 per year, typically includes a week off at Christmas), generous annual (vacation) and sick leave benefits, Employee Assistance Program, and possible educational leave and tuition exemption for coursework at campuses of the LSU System. Specific benefits depend on job category, percent effort and length of employment.
Date Available: Upon completion of the selection process.
Application Deadline: March 21, 2025, or until a suitable candidate is identified.
Application Procedure: Qualified candidates must apply online at https://lsu.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/LSU (or through Workday for internal applicants) by attaching a single PDF file containing a curriculum vita, a letter of application, official university transcripts, and two letters of reference. Questions about the online application system should be directed to the HRM Office at 225/578-0324 or hrmhelp@agcenter.lsu.edu. (Paper, faxed, or emailed application materials will not be accepted.) In lieu of attaching the letters of reference, they may be sent directly to:
Dr. Melissa Cater, LCES Associate Director
212-B Macon Ridge Road
Winnsboro, LA 71295
Email: mcater@agcenter.lsu.edu
Web site: www.lsuagcenter.com
The LSU Agricultural Center is a statewide campus of the LSU System and provides equal opportunities in programs and employment.