Extension Agent, Ag

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.

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.

This position will be responsible for Horticulture programming in Edgecombe County. The Horticulture Agent is responsible for planning, implementing and evaluating an outcome- based program addressing issues and opportunities identified in Edgecombe County. The agent in this position must have technical competence in both consumer and commercial horticulture and in the delivery of non-formal education programs, and the identification of plants and pests and the diagnosis of plant problems. The agent in this position develops and works with stakeholder-based committees that provide direction for Extension programs; works with community organizations to effectively link Extension with local resources and clients; and assists effectively with recruiting, training, and managing Extension Master Gardener and other volunteers to expand outreach efforts. In addition, this agent will provide support to community gardens and work towards developing a youth horticulture program.

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.

Edgecombe County covers 505 square miles of prime agricultural land in the Upper Coastal Plans in northeastern North Carolina. Edgecombe County is located approximately 75 miles from our State Capital, Raleigh, NC. Edgecombe County is home to 243 farms with 116,087 acres of cropland. Edgecombe County ranks fifth in crop receipts with total farm income exceeding $304 million of which vegetables and potatoes account for $42 million . The county population is 48,359. The county seat and home of the Extension County Extension Center is Tarboro. It was named after the Tar River that borders the town on two sides. The largest town is Rocky Mount, which encompasses parts of Edgecombe and Nash counties.

For information about Edgecombe County visit https://www.edgecombecountync.gov/ To learn more about the NCCE Edgecombe County Center go to https://edgecombe.ces.ncsu.edu/

The person in this position must possess a high degree of horticulture subject matter competence. They must also have excellent public speaking skills, verbal and written communication skills, outstanding people skills, and effective teaching skills for in person and virtual educational programs. Additionally, the person in this position must have the necessary education and experience to lead a strong Extension education program in the assigned areas as well as work closely to lead an established volunteer system.

The Agent works with homeowners, community groups, commercial horticultural crop producers, professional landscape and turf professionals, and others to increase their knowledge of horticultural issues and implementation of best management practices.

Additional responsibilities include assisting with recruiting and training new Master Gardeners, pesticide education as it pertains to horticulture and the green industry, and developing and coordinating youth horticulture programs.

This person must be self-directed, having the ability to juggle multiple responsibilities and schedules, have effective oral and written communication skills, and be willing to work with broad audiences. Grant writing and project management experience is essential. Computer, organization, interpersonal and networking skills are crucial for success.

Ability to effectively deliver information via mass media including television, radio and social media is expected. Candidates must be willing to work with the staff to support the entire Extension program.

The person in this position must possess a high degree of horticulture subject matter competence and excellent people and communication skills, be computer literate, and have the necessary education and experience to lead a strong Extension education program in the assigned areas.

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. Also required: a personal automobile; computer literacy; strong oral and written communication skills; the ability to plan, implement, market, and evaluate educational programs; willingness to work as a team member and support a total Extension program; and the ability to handle multiple demands and set priorities. Personal Attributes: Successful performance of the duties encompassed in the Extension Agent's job requires that the individual possess habits of industry, a sense of responsibility, and a genuine appreciation for the worth of the individual. The employee must be adept in both oral and written communication. The Extension Agent is eligible to become a member of the non-tenure track/special faculty at North Carolina State University. The Extension Agent has primary responsibility for planning, executing, and evaluating that phase of Extension programs within assigned areas of program responsibility. The Extension Agent cooperates with colleagues in the North Carolina Cooperative Extension and leaders in performing assigned responsibilities. The performance of assigned responsibilities is governed by the philosophy, objectives, policies, and procedures of the North Carolina Cooperative Extension.

A bachelor's degree in horticulture related field is required. The agent in this position must have technical competence in horticulture and be able to deliver educational programs.

Travel within the district is required.

Occasional travel outside the district is required

A Master's degree is preferred.

Work experience with horticulture to include turf and ornamentals, home gardening, fruits and vegetables, pest management etc.

Desired skills and abilities include the ability to manage volunteers, willingness to work as part of a team, strong written and verbal communication skills, and strong technology skills.

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 and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, status as an individual with a disability, or status as a protected veteran. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability-related accommodations in the application and interview process are welcome to contact 919-515-3148 to speak with a representative at the Office of Institutional Equity and Diversity.

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.

NC State University participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.