Extension Program Assistant – Forestry

About the role

The University of Maryland Extension is seeking a part‑time Extension Program Assistant to support its Forestry Extension Program. The role combines field data collection, event coordination, and outreach communication to advance forestry research and education across Maryland.

Key responsibilities

• Collect and analyze ecological and silvicultural data in remote forest sites.
• Apply plant identification, plot sampling, and field safety protocols.
• Enter, clean, and quality‑control data for research and advisory activities.
• Prepare newsletters, promotional circulars, and program documents.
• Support faculty with teaching demonstrations and outreach events.
• Coordinate logistics, registration, and material setup for workshops, seminars, and field events.
• Maintain evaluation data and respond to information requests.
• Lead marketing efforts to recruit participants for landowner training courses.
• Recruit, train, and serve as primary contact for volunteer program leaders.
• Develop and manage databases for volunteer communications and relationship tracking.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field.
• Experience with educational programming, event coordination, or workshop support.
• Experience in volunteer management or community engagement.
• First Aid/CPR certification.
• FAA Part 107 certification for UAS/drone operation.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel to field sites.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

Required skills

• Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
• RStudio or other statistical software.
• UAS/drone operation (FAA Part 107).
• First Aid/CPR.
• Data collection, entry, and cleaning.