Program Specialist I

As a Program Specialist I at Texas A&M Agrilife Extension Service, your primary responsibilities include planning, developing, and implementing agricultural research programs, coordinating special events like conferences and workshops, and managing field studies to improve local agricultural systems. You'll also engage in data analysis and supervise students and temporary staff, ensuring that research protocols are meticulously followed.

To qualify for the Program Specialist I position at Texas A&M Agrilife Extension Service, candidates must possess a Bachelor's degree in a related field or an equivalent combination of education and experience. A Master's degree in Agronomy or a similar discipline is preferred, along with relevant experience in crop and soil research.

A successful Program Specialist I at Texas A&M Agrilife Extension Service should have strong organizational and communication skills, proficiency in word processing and spreadsheet applications, and the ability to multitask effectively. Familiarity with farm equipment and experience in crop research processes are also advantageous.

The Program Specialist I plays a significant role in contributing to scholarly research at Texas A&M Agrilife by managing research trials, analyzing data, and developing scholarly outputs such as manuscripts, posters, and presentations. Your findings will advance knowledge in the field and will be shared through academic conferences and publications, promoting the mission of the Texas A&M Agrilife Extension Service.

In the Program Specialist I position at Texas A&M Agrilife Extension Service, you would typically work with a variety of field and laboratory equipment, including tractors, sprayers, combines, and sample analyzers. Familiarity and experience in using this equipment is essential for managing agri-research trials effectively.

In your response, focus on specific projects where you applied your agricultural research knowledge, highlighting your roles in protocol implementation, data analysis, or dissemination of findings. Emphasize the positive impact of your research on local farmers or agricultural practices.

Discuss your organizational skills and tools or strategies you use to manage your workload. Provide examples of how you've successfully prioritized tasks in past roles, ensuring deadlines and project goals are met efficiently.

Explain how communication enhances collaboration among team members, stakeholders, and the community. Provide examples of how you effectively conveyed research findings or program goals in the past to foster engagement and understanding.

Detail your approach to data collection and analysis, discussing practices you follow to ensure accuracy, such as thorough documentation, regular audits, and collaborative reviews. Mention any specific software or tools you utilize for data management.

Narrate a specific challenge related to research or project management, explaining the circumstances, your response, and the ultimately positive outcome. Highlight your problem-solving skills and ability to remain focused under pressure.

Outline strategies for engaging stakeholders, such as community meetings, surveys, or feedback sessions. Share examples of how you have successfully built relationships with stakeholders and incorporated their feedback into programs.

Select a particular presentation you conducted, detailing the subject matter, the audience, and how you tailored your message to resonate with them. Discuss the feedback you received and how it contributed to the ongoing dialogue in your field.

Discuss your commitment to continuous learning through sources like academic journals, conferences, and professional organizations. Mention any relevant certifications or training courses you have completed.

Explain your hands-on experience with various farm equipment, detailing specific troubleshooting methods you rely on, such as systematic diagnostics, manufacturer guidelines, and seeking advice from experienced colleagues.

Articulate your passion for agricultural science and community engagement, emphasizing the alignment of your skills with the mission of Texas A&M Agrilife. Share what excites you about this role and how you plan to contribute to the organization’s goals.