Extension Agent, Ag - Horticulture (Assistant, Associate, or Full)

Are you looking for a rewarding career that will let you give back to your community? NC State Extension extends research-based knowledge to all North Carolinians, helping them transform science into everyday solutions that improve their lives and grow our state. We are the model of excellence in non-formal, research-based education that advances agriculture, the environment, human health and well-being, youth and communities, while creating prosperity for all North Carolinians. Working for NC State Extension allows you to teach without being tied to a classroom and school bell. Check out this video on what it's like to work for NC State Extension.

No two days in Extension are ever the same, there is always something new! Extension Agents are active in their communities and often need to meet the clients when and where they are available. This is not your typical desk job!

The position may be hired at the Assistant, Associate or Full Agent level if the selected candidate meets the required qualifications.

While our employees are located in NC County offices, they reap the benefits of employment at NC State University. Some of our benefits include:

* Paid time off

* Paid tuition

* Health Insurance

* Flexible Scheduling

* Retirement Savings

* Supplemental Benefits Programs

* WolfPerks!

You Belong Here! At NC State, our goal is for all employees to reach their fullest potential at work. As you consider this opportunity, we encourage you to review our Employee Value Proposition ( https://news.hr.ncsu.edu/you-belong-here/) and learn more about what makes NC State the best place to learn and work for everyone.

Primary Purpose of Position
The agent in this position will provide leadership for the horticulture programs in Burke County for all consumer horticulture programs. In addition, there may be some commercial horticulture programs that the agent would assist with the area agent . This position also provides training and support for the Extension Master Gardener program in Burke County. The agent will provide relevant educational programming and training, as well as proactively conduct needs assessments and program evaluations for the county.

North Carolina Cooperative Extension gives our residents easy access to the resources and expertise of NC State University and NC A&T State University through educational programs, publications, and events. Cooperative Extension agents deliver unbiased, research-based information to North Carolina citizens.

The agent in this position will have educational responsibilities in all phases of consumer and commercial horticulture (including but not limited to): insect and disease diagnosis, turf, ornamental, and nursery operation support, fruits and vegetable production, sustainable agriculture, specialty crops, beekeeping, organics, community-supported agriculture, local farmer's markets, and some pesticide education.

This position demands a responsible and self-motivated individual with outstanding relationship skills and possess a high degree of horticulture subject matter competence along with excellent people and communication skills, be computer literate, and have the necessary education and experience to lead a strong program in the designated areas of focus.

* Develop, implement, and evaluate educational programs using appropriate delivery methods and technologies, including integrated and multidisciplinary programming.

* Outcomes and impacts are to be documented and marketed.

* Develops and maintains a comprehensive understanding of the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service as an educational agency and its implications for programming in the county.

* Markets county Extension programs and services to the community using various media.

* Work collaboratively with other Extension programs, staff, agencies and community organizations to meet the specialized needs of the community.

* Maintains liaison with civic organizations, related businesses, informal educational organizations, and other voluntary groups.

* Other duties as assigned.

Other Work Responsibilities:

Additional responsibilities include providing customer service and horticultural resources and education to consumers. Training and oversight of the Extension Master Gardener volunteers. Serve as liaison and provide education to beekeepers. Developing and coordinating youth horticulture programs, innovative strategies for marketing, and evaluating educational programs by showing measurable impacts.

One of the following educational requirements: - A Bachelor's degree with a cumulative grade point average of 2.5 overall or a 3.0 (based on a 4.0 scale) in an agricultural or related field. The minimum GPA requirement will be waived for NCCE Program Associates with a Bachelor's degree. - A Bachelor's degree and the completion of at least one-half of coursework in a Master's degree curriculum with a cumulative grade point average 3.0 or higher with at least one of the degrees in an agricultural or related field, or - Completion of a Master's degree with at least one of the degrees in an agricultural or related field.

N/A

Knowledge and experience in communications, presentations, public relations/marketing, leadership, time management, organization, technology, networking, and resource development preferred.

The candidate should possess a high degree of subject matter competence, be a good communicator, have the ability to work independently and within a team, handle multiple demands, and set priorities in accordance with the mission and philosophy of NC Cooperative Extension.

Valid Driver's License and reliable, personal transportation required. Valid North Carolina driver's license is required within 60 days of hire and must be maintained.

NC State University is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal opportunities for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, and veteran status. The University encourages all qualified applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities, to apply. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability-related accommodations in the application and interview process are welcome to contact 919-513-0574 to speak with a representative of the Office of Equal Opportunity.

If you have general questions about the application process, you may contact Human Resources at (919) 515-2135 or workatncstate@ncsu.edu.

Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. Degree(s) must be obtained prior to start date in order to meet qualifications and receive credit.

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