Nutrition Education Advisor, Phila. Cooperative Extension

Posted by on October 31, 2003

Position Description

Title of Position: Nutrition Education Advisor
Classification: Staff Nonexempt
Department: College of Agricultural Sciences

Function of Position:
Responsible to the Supervising Educator in charge of the Nutrition Education Program (NEP) and the County Extension Director (CED) in Philadelphia County for providing behavioral reinforcement and teaching safe food handling and nutrition education designed to increase the consumption of fruits, vegetables, and dairy foods. The target audience is 2nd through 5th grade children from food stamp eligible households who will participate in school lunchroom, after-school and summer program settings.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities:
1. Demonstrate knowledge of approved curriculum and guidelines. Demonstrate ability to enthusiastically and creatively engage 2nd through 5th grade children in lunchroom based awareness interventions and After School Nutrition Programs.
2. Demonstrate ability to assist in identifying the needs of differing collaborative partners and demonstrate flexibility in meeting program goals.
3. Interact with extension staff, program partners including school principals, parents, lunch managers and after school snack managers for the cooperative development of an educational program to meet the nutrition education needs of children in the assigned geographic area.
4. Maintain and enhance knowledge of basic nutrition, food safety and food preparation by participating in county, regional and statewide training opportunities. Attend regularly scheduled staff meetings and other extension activities as requested and meet regularly with the Supervising Educator and/or supporting educator.
5. Demonstrate initiative in seeking out professional development opportunities to enhance present performance and future career opportunities.
6. Recruit, maintain, and recognize program volunteers.
7. Submit accurate records on a timely basis to Supervising Educator. Manage time to achieve recommended caseload and to conserve travel.
8. Ensure compliance with the state Affirmative Action Plan. Through public notification and "All Reasonable Efforts" ensure that the program is accessible to all clientele as directed in the University’s affirmative action statement.
9. Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Supervision:
Work is performed under the direction of the Supervising Educator and the County Extension Director. Questions are referred to the Supervising Educator and County Extension Director as appropriate.

Minimum qualifications:
High school diploma or equivalent plus three months experience in nutrition or related subject is preferred. Applicants should live in the community being served. Must be able to carry educational materials and supplies, and be able to travel. Minorities and persons with bilingual capabilities are encouraged to apply.