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. Check out this video on what it's like to work for NC State Extension.

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 demands an enthusiastic individual who possesses a blend of technical agricultural expertise, strong communication skills, and the ability to engage with the local community. The individual selected for this position will be responsible for educational programming and informational assistance related to field crops, This position is also responsible for pesticide education and certification programs.

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.

Pasquotank County, located in northeastern North Carolina within the Atlantic Coastal Plain, is home to over 40,661 residents. Spanning 269.33 square miles, 23% of the county's area is water, making it an ideal location for boating, fishing and other water-based activities. Bordered by the northern Albemarle Sound and two rivers, Pasquotank is a popular destination for maritime pursuits. Elizabeth City, the county seat and largest city, serves as the region's economic, cultural, and educational center. It is home to the U.S. Coast Guard Base Elizabeth City and three higher educational institutions, Elizabeth City State University, College of the Albemarle and Mid-Atlantic Christian University.

Pasquotank County boasts a proud agricultural heritage, generating over $79 million annually and ranking 23rd in North Carolina for the value of agricultural products sold. Corn and soybeans are the most widely cultivated crops, often rotated with wheat. In recent years, cotton production has risen, and peanuts are occasionally grown. The county's agricultural output is produced by 133 farms spanning 90,549 acres.

For information about Pasquotank County visit https://www.pasquotankcountync.org/

To learn more about the NCCE Pasquotank County Center go to https://pasquotank.ces.ncsu.edu/

Duties and Responsibilities

The person in this position must possess a high degree of general agriculture subject matter competence. They must also have excellent problem solving, public speaking, verbal and written communication, 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. The agent will provide leadership in planning, implementing, evaluating, and promoting educational programs with measurable impacts in field crop production. They are expected to possess knowledge of alternative farm enterprises, business management, and pesticide education. Collaborating with staff, producers, university specialists, and advisory members, the agent will identify gaps between current and desired outcomes, prioritizing educational programs that meet the needs of Pasquotank County farmers.

The agent's programs should address both current and emerging issues in agricultural production, natural resource management, and challenges such as alternative farm enterprises, business management, and water quality. The candidate must develop innovative strategies for delivering educational content, both in-person and virtually, to farmers, youth, farm families, and relevant organizations and businesses. The position requires the ability to lift 50 lbs.

This individual must be self-directed, capable of managing multiple responsibilities and schedules while demonstrating strong oral and written communication skills. They should be comfortable working with broad audiences and be open to exploring grant writing and project management.

Proficiency in computer use, organizational skills, interpersonal communication, and networking are critical for success. The agent must also effectively disseminate information through mass media and be committed to supporting the broader Extension program in collaboration with other staff members.

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.

A Bachelor's degree in crop science, agronomy or closely related field is required.

The candidate must be able to network with broad audiences, customers, volunteers, Extension Specialists, and local Extension staff. The candidate must be able to develop and implement innovative strategies for presenting educational programs and provide leadership in planning, implementing, marketing, and evaluating educational programs and activities with measurable impacts.

Travel within the district is required. Occasional travel outside the district is required.

A Master's degree is preferred. It is the expectation that a Master's degree will be pursued.

Previous Cooperative Extension and/or relevant experience is preferred.

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.