Specialist - Teacher-Fixed Term

Working/Functional Title

Academic Specialist- Program Coordinator

Position Summary

Academic Specialist, 100%-time appointment, renewable annually based on performance and availability of funding. This position is jointly funded between Michigan State University and Kellogg Community College.

The position provides overall management for the partnership between the MSU Institute of Agricultural Technology (IAT) and Kellogg Community College (KCC) to deliver career-focused training programs. Primary duties of the position include student advising, course instruction, and outreach.

The IAT is looking for a highly motivated individual who can work collaboratively with KCC staff to deliver quality academic programs, support student success, and build meaningful relationships with local community stakeholders. Qualifications include strong organizational and interpersonal skills, and excellent written and oral communication skills. The successful candidate will have at least three years of demonstrated success in relevant teaching, student programming, agriculture industry, or academic leadership.

Duties of the program coordinator consist of the following:

• Advise current students on academic planning that satisfies program requirements.

• Implement a student recruitment plan that utilizes multiple strategies to reach various target areas.

• Facilitate retention strategies that support student success.

• Maintain an advisory board with diverse members from the community.

• Provide support to local instructors including materials, facilities, and organization of off-campus field trips.

• Recruit new students to maintain optimal enrollment levels.

• Teach courses in career development, leadership, agriculture, and/or other courses in the candidate's area of expertise or as needed by the program.

• Foster a working relationship with the agricultural industry, high school counselors, teachers, and diverse community stakeholders.

• Evaluate and assess IAT program and curriculum.

• Work closely with departments (MSU & KCC) for effective program delivery.

• Support course offerings by identifying instructors, securing classroom space and meeting locations.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Degree

Masters -Agriculture and natural resources communications, education, or business

Minimum Requirements

Masters - agriculture, environment, natural resources, communication, education, business, or similar field of study

• Qualifications include strong organizational and interpersonal skills.

• Excellent written and oral communication skills.

• At least three years of demonstrated success in relevant teaching, student programming, agriculture industry, or academic leadership.

Required Application Materials

Applicants must submit:

• Detailed resume/vita.

• Cover letter summarizing qualifications and interest in position.

• Statement on their philosophy related to teaching and learning.

• Names and contact information for at least three professional references.

Special Instructions

Review of applications will be on a continuing basis thereafter until the position is filled.

Questions about the position can be directed to Dr. Jeno Rivera, IAT director, at [email protected] .

Applicants may apply for this position via the link at

Review of Applications Begins On

05/17/2026

Website

IAT.MSU.EDU

Department Statement

The institute of Agricultural Technology is a unique academic option within Michigan State University by offering short, career-ready programs on campus in East Lansing and in partnership with several Michigan community colleges. The IAT provides access to these programs through an independent application process and admission criteria. In addition to the practical education and applied learning experiences, students will complete a professional internship to gain real-world work experience and valuable industry connections.

MSU Statement

Michigan State University has been advancing the common good with uncommon will for more than 160 years. One of the top research universities in the world, MSU pushes the boundaries of discovery and forges enduring partnerships to solve the most pressing global challenges while providing life-changing opportunities to a diverse and inclusive academic community through more than 200 programs of study in 17 degree-granting colleges.