Community Food & Agricultural Systems Coordinator

The Community Food and Agricultural Systems Development Coordinator is a joint position with Agriculture and Natural Resources and the Community Economic Development program areas for Central State University Extension. The candidate will have a background in nonprofit business operation, management, and development as well as the operation of small-scale agricultural, food systems, and/or agritourism businesses. They will provide expertise and training to community members in nonprofit business development, integrating agriculture education, production, and/or food preparation/preservation into nonprofit operations, grant writing, volunteer coordination, and other related topics. This position will also be responsible for developing program curricula on these topics and provide training to Extension Educators in the Community & Economic Development (CED) and Agriculture & Natural Resources (ANR) program areas to assist in delivering these programs across the state. Education outreach includes both non- and for-profit small businesses in the Food Systems space may also occur.

Familiarity with youth agriculture education, food safety regulations, and grant management is desirable. This position will provide support to a wide variety of food businesses, with a particular emphasis on small nonprofits working in the food production and distribution sector. The selected candidate will work closely with ANR and CED educators to connect with constituents across the state to provide technical assistance to help them to build and develop their business within their local food system.

– Develop, organize and provide outreach and programming for current and aspiring business owners working in the food systems space

– Provide technical assistance virtually and in-person across the state to business owners working in community food systems

– Create outreach tools and materials for various internal and external communication outlets

– Provide training and support on Food Systems business development to CED and ANR educators

– Quantify and track outreach efforts including to underserved and underrepresented populations
– Seek external funding opportunities to support outreach and food systems business development

– Create and promote farm business tools developed by CSU Extension to growers

– Maintain knowledge of current laws, regulations, and opportunities for food and agricultural businesses in Ohio through professional development opportunities

– Master’s degree with 3-5 years of experience or bachelor’s degree with 5 or more years of experience in Business Administration, Community Food Systems, Agribusiness, Community Development, or related topics.

– Demonstrated ability to work independently

– Must have well-developed verbal and written communication skills

– Demonstrated organizational and record keeping skills

– Must be able to successfully work with people at all organizational levels and diverse backgrounds

– Must possess a valid driver’s license and travel to various locations throughout the state of Ohio

– Proficient in the use of desktop publishing, word processing, and data processing software.

Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa at this time.

All offer of employment at Central State University are contingent upon the successful completion of a comprehensive background check. This may include, but is not limited to, verification of education and employment history, criminal history check, driving record (if applicable), drug screening, and tax compliance review.

Certain positions may require additional screenings based on job responsibilities, regulatory requirements, or funding sources.

Failure to successfully complete the required background check or provide accurate and complete information may result in withdrawal of an offer or termination of employment.