Extension Agent, Agriculture (Field Crops)

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!

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
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Primary Purpose of Position

The agent in this position will have educational responsibilities in all phases of field crops (tobacco, soybeans, corn, wheat) and pesticide certification for Alamance County. The successful candidate must be able to conduct educational programs that focus on the profitability and sustainability of North Carolina field crops and pesticide certification, utilizing best practices based on research to include the adoption of proven technology, business, and financial practices. The successful candidate will be responsible for research development in the field crop program area. This position will coordinate with NCDA&CS, serving as the pesticide coordinator.

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Primary Function of Organizational Unit

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 field faculty deliver unbiased, research-based information to North Carolina citizens.

Alamance County is located in the Piedmont in North Carolina with a population of 179,165. According to 2022 N.C. Agricultural Statistics, Alamance County is home to 724 farms on 68,769 acres of farmland with market value of agricultural products sold at $45,994,000.

For more information, please visit: https://www.alamancecounty.org/

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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 (tobacco, soybeans, corn, wheat) and pesticide certification. 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 Alamance County farmers.

The agent's programs should address 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 successful candidate will be responsible for research development in these program areas. Research equipment, tools, and supplies will be provided to conduct on-farm demonstrations and research plots. This position will coordinate with NCDA&CS, serving as the pesticide coordinator.

This individual must be self-directed, and 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. The agent in this position will hold yearly pesticide education classes and exams; report monthly on educational contacts and program impacts, and understand grants, grant writing, and reporting.

Be a part of a County Extension Team that helps deliver educational programs to youth and adults at Extension Farm Schools, Alamance County Farm Bureau events, and other community events to the public. 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 a related agricultural field is required.

A Master's degree is preferred.

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

Extension or other professional experience, including a high level of computer competency, is desired.

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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.

If you have general questions about the application process, you may contact Human Resources at (919) 515-2135 or workatncstate@ncsu.edu. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability-related accommodations in the application and interview process, please call 919-515-3148.

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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