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 benefitsof 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.

The person in this position must possess a high degree of livestock production knowledge, forage production, as well as fruit and vegetable production, have excellent people and communication skills, be computer literate, and have the necessary education and experience to lead a strong Extension Agriculture program. This position requires a person who can relate to the needs of our clientele; is adept at going out into the county on farm visits to engage targeted audiences; and, who can increase program capacity by generating community resources and building partnerships.

This position primarily provides leadership for the development, implementation, and evaluation of an effective educational program to meet the needs of the county in the following areas of responsibility: consumer & commercial livestock production, pasture management, fruit and vegetable production, soil science, IPM, as well as farm business planning and management.

Additionally, the person selected for this position will be responsible for collaborating with area Extension specialists to coordinate Extension area workshops, offer educational programming and provide informational assistance to customers as needed.

The position has the flexibility to offer educational programs based on the needs of the community and the expertise of the agent. Programs are designed to enhance and showcase the agriculture community as well as Extension resources and services. One such program is the annual Clay County Tractor Parade and Ag Day, in which the Ag Agent will be responsible for the planning, coordinating, and marketing.

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.

Clay County is located in the far western part of the state offering a magical combination of mountain, lake, and friendly small-town living. The town of Hayesville is located approximately 10 miles from Hiawassee, Georgia and less than 40 miles from Tennessee. The majority of farm land consists of forage and cattle along with small crops.

Additional responsibilities will include recruiting, training and oversight of the Extension Master Gardener Volunteers and the Master Gardener program.

The successful candidate is expected to be a team player working with the Clay Extension staff and other organizations, possess a high degree of subject matter competence, possess excellent oral and written communication skills, and have the ability to work independently.

This person should be able to:

*Develop and maintain organized programs that follow North Carolina Cooperative Extension, North Carolina State University, North Carolina A&T University, state, county and national laws, policies and guidelines.

* Determine clientele needs and impact by assessing and evaluating the Agriculture program and services on a regular basis.

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

*Take an active role in county events including: Clay County Farmers Market, Spring EMGV Plant Sale, Clay County Tractor Parade and Ag Day, Farm Bureau Community Appreciation Day, Soil & Water Field Day, and other events as requested by the County Extension Director or community partners.

* Network with neighboring Agents, University Specialists, and local Ag Producers.

* Promote Agriculture within the community.

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 crop science, agronomy, horticultural science, or a related agricultural field is required.

A Master’s degree is preferred.

Travel within the county is required. Occasional travel outside the county/district is also required. Travel is reimbursed according to state guidelines.

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

Valid driver’s license and reliable, personal transportation required.

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.