See http://www.sare.org/jobdescription.htm for a downloadable version of the job description, which follows.

Questions? contact Dr. Kim Kroll at assoc_dir@sare.org or 301-504-5199.


Communications/Outreach Assistant
(U of Maryland classification: Program Management Specialist):
Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education program

CLOSING DATE: June 27, 2008
STARTING SALARY: 33,000-40,000
TERM: One-year contract with expected yearly extensions depending upon funding
LOCATION: SARE National Outreach Office, Beltsville, MD

The Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) program works nationwide to advance farming systems that are profitable, environmentally sound and good for communities.  It is primarily a grantmaking organization. Since its inception in 1988, the program has funded nearly 4,000 research, education, outreach and community development projects to advance sustainable practices and innovations in American agriculture. SARE grants are administered through offices located in four U.S. regions: Northeast, North Central, West and South.

SARE's National Outreach Office, located in Beltsville, Maryland, analyzes and translates grantees' work into practical, how-to books, bulletins, and fact sheets for farmers, ag educators, NGOs, and other stakeholders involved in sustainable agriculture. SARE Outreach also develops key partnerships with educators, researchers, media, and other stakeholders in order to further advance sustainability in the nation's agriculture.

DUTIES:
Communication and outreach assistance and information management:
*       Help produce books and bulletins written for Extension educators, farmers and other agricultural audiences. Duties would include, but not be limited to, vendor management, press checks, photo research, some writing/editing.
*       Respond to requests for information.
*       Manage photo database.
*       Manage email and mailing lists.
*       Serve as a technical interface between SARE and print and electronic distribution services.
*       Assist with media/stakeholder outreach projects.
*       Write, edit and/or proofread outreach and PR materials.
*       Other duties as requested by the outreach specialist, outreach coordinator, and communications specialist.

QUALIFICATIONS:
B.A. in communications/journalism or equivalent experience and/or a B.S. in agricultural or environmental sciences related field, or equivalent work experience. Excellent written and oral communication skills; excellent computer skills, including web-based information management, database management and design programs; copyediting experience a plus; and ability to work in a team-based office environment.

TO APPLY:  Send a current résumé, cover letter summarizing your educational background and work experience, contact information for three references, and two to four writing samples by email to: Dr. Kim Kroll, assoc_dir@sare.org. Phone number: 301-504-5199. Deadline for applications: June 27, 2008.

The University of Maryland is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.