Extension Program Assistant

Position Function:

To lead and support a variety of routine and specialized Extension and research duties focused on a combination of fisheries science, fisheries management, community engagement, and data collection, interpretation, and reporting.

Salary Grade:  08

Please see Staff Compensation Structure or Skilled Crafts and Service Maintenance Compensation Schedule for salary ranges.  For salary grade UC, these positions are "Unclassified" and salary ranges are determined by the hiring department.

Department Profile:

This position will be housed in the Coastal and Marine Extension Program located at the Coastal Research and Extension Center in Biloxi, MS.

Area of Specialization:

Coastal Gulf of America fisheries, commercial and recreational fisheries Extension, fishery-independent sampling techniques, data analysis and statistical modeling

Anticipated Appointment Date:

October 1, 2025. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

The essential duties and responsibilities will include conducting project management tasks for two funded projects. One project is focused on quantifying Gulf of America recreational fishery discards, and the other is focused on tagging and tracking Mississippi nearshore fishes. Other responsibilities include assisting with other projects as needed, such as fieldwork and outreach events.

These duties will include activities such as, but not limited to:
* Organizing routine meetings with participants, partners, and team members;
* Leading and/or co-leading workshops for project participants and engaging in outreach opportunities.
* Leading and assisting with the preparation and dissemination of outreach materials, Extension publications, and technical reports;
* Applying for and managing extramural funding;
* Collecting, interpreting, and reporting data;
* Performing research activities, such as literature reviews and sample collection/processing;
* Other duties as assigned

Minimum Qualifications:

Education: High School Diploma
Licensure: Valid Driver's License

Preferred Qualifications:

* Bachelor's degree with major coursework in a curriculum appropriate for the field of assignment
* Extension, applied research, outreach, education, and project management experience;
* Familiarity with coastal, marine, and estuarine ecosystems and associated field research.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

* Typing and computer skills (word processing and spreadsheets)
* Highly flexible: ability to adapt to a rapidly changing schedule
* Ability to juggle multiple tasks and prioritize multiple demands
* Strong oral and written communication skills
* Knowledge and skills in using Microsoft Office Suites especially Word, Excel, PowerPoint; knowledge and skills in document/project management/sharing platforms (e.g. Google Drive, Basecamp, etc.)
* Knowledge and skills in webinar software (WebEx, GoToMeeting, Zoom, etc.)
* Ability to develop and maintain diverse and robust partnerships
* Ability to collect, process, and interpret research data; ability to author or co-author publications.
* Ability to apply for, secure, and manage extramural funding

Working Conditions and Physical Effort

* Work may involve moderate exposure to unusual elements, such as extreme temperatures, dirt, dust, fumes, smoke, unpleasant odors, and/or loud noises.
* Ability to work in extreme weather conditions
* Ability to work long hours
* Requires substantial routine travel, including some overnight trips

Instructions for Applying:

Link to apply:  http://explore.msujobs.msstate.edu/

All applicants must apply online at www.jobs.msstate.edu by submitting an online application along with a cover letter and resume. If submitting a transcript, social security numbers should be redacted prior to submitting online with the application.

Screening Date:

August 26, 2025, until filled. 

Restricted Clause:

Position is contingent upon continued availability of funding.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:

Mississippi State University is an equal opportunity institution. Discrimination is prohibited in university employment, programs or activities based on race, color, ethnicity, sex, pregnancy, religion, national origin, disability, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, status as a U.S. veteran, or any other status to the extent protected by applicable law. Questions about equal opportunity programs or compliance should be directed to the Office of Civil Rights Compliance, 231 Famous Maroon Band Street, P.O. 6044, Mississippi State, MS 39762, (662) 325-5839.

What do I do if I need an accommodation?

In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act (ADA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation in order to apply for a position with Mississippi State University, please contact the Department of Human Resources Management at tel: (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu.

If you have any questions regarding this policy, contact the Department of Human Resources Management at (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu. Upon request, sections of this job listing are available in large print, and readers are available to assist the visually impaired.