Vector-borne Disease Program Specialist

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JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

Penn State Extension seeks a Vector-borne Disease Extension Program Specialist to develop and implement educational programs, surveillance strategies, and management initiatives addressing vector-borne diseases in Pennsylvania. This position will focus on public health, animal health, and community needs while collaborating with target audiences to enhance surveillance systems, promote awareness, and support best practices in vector management and prevention.

Key Responsibilities:

• Vector Surveillance & Behavior Assessment:Develop and implement a statewide consulting program for vector-borne disease surveillance and management. Design educational materials, enhance monitoring systems, and conduct assessments such as surveys and interviews to inform programming. Evaluate program effectiveness and recommend improvements.

• Educational Program & Product Development:Design and deliver science-based educational materials and outreach programs using diverse platforms, including workshops, seminars, demonstrations, and digital resources. Conduct needs assessments, analyze feedback, and evaluate program impacts to enhance effectiveness.

• Applied Research & Knowledge Discovery:Lead and collaborate on applied research related to vector surveillance, disease transmission, and management strategies. Secure intramural and extramural funding to support research efforts and disseminate findings through presentations, scientific publications, and community reports.

• Community Engagement & Collaboration:Serve as a liaison between local communities, academic institutions, industry professionals, and governmental entities. Foster partnerships to support educational outreach and ensure programs align with community and institutional priorities. Participate in committees and community groups to guide extension efforts.

This is a limited term position funded for one year from date of hire with excellent possibility of refunding.

Qualifications:

• Master's degree or higher in entomology, public health, epidemiology, veterinary science, or a related field plus 3 years of relevant experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Experience in vector surveillance, disease management, and/or public health education.

• Strong communication skills, including experience in community engagement and public outreach.

• Ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders, including government agencies, industry professionals, and community groups.

Desired qualifications:

• Ability to develop and deliver and evaluate educational programs using various platforms.

• Experience in applied research, grant writing, and publishing scientific findings.

• Experience in mentoring, supervising, or managing staff, students, or volunteers.

• Demonstrated ability to secure and manage grants, contracts, and/or program funding.

• Experience in applied research, data analysis, and publishing scientific findings.

• Strong organizational skills, including event coordination and program administration.

This position requires that you operate a motor vehicle as a part of your job duties. A valid driver's license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check will be required in addition to standard background checks.

This role offers the opportunity to contribute to Penn State Extension's mission by addressing critical public health and agricultural challenges related to vector-borne diseases. The successful candidate will play a key role in advancing knowledge, improving surveillance efforts, and engaging with diverse communities to mitigate the impact of vector-borne diseases in Pennsylvania.

The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging in all its forms. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports both broad and specific equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university's teaching, research, and service mission.

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades is:

Salary Structure - additional information on Penn State's job and salary structure.

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