County Extension Agent - 4-H

University of Arkansas System•Little Rock, AR

About The Position

The 4-H Youth Development Agent works with volunteers, public schools, and other organizations to deliver research-based, hands-on learning experiences that foster positive and healthy youth development. The agent works with subject matter specialists to develop educational activities and recruits and trains volunteer leaders to work with youth in clubs and project groups. The agent works closely with a broad audience base and volunteers to conduct educational programs for youth.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in agriculture, family & consumer sciences, youth development, or related area of study is required. Degree must be conferred by the date of hire.
Must have transportation for use on the job with liability insurance in effect.
Must agree to a background check authorizing release of relevant Arkansas Child Abuse and Neglect Central Registry records.
Knowledge in one or more agriculture or family & consumer sciences subject matter areas appropriate to the county assigned.
Ability to speak and write clearly and communicate ideas effectively.
Ability to plan and conduct programs and work with all clientele regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, gender, age, disability, marital or veteran status, genetic information, sexual preference, pregnancy, or any other legally protected status.
Ability to work long and irregular hours and travel frequently.

Responsibilities

Maintains a thorough knowledge of the social, economic, and political characteristics of the county and will be an effective liaison with local community leaders, agencies and governments. Maintains an up-to-date and working knowledge of Arkansas Extension programs.
Collaborates with the County Extension Council or advisory committee and provides leadership to the 4-H Subcommittee in identifying the educational needs of clients. Partners with the county activity committee to plan and implement events. Develop educational materials to support workshops and trainings.
Promotes the 4-H program through community activities, news articles, and other outreach methods. Develop marketing tools to support county-based programs. Keeps members and volunteers informed of upcoming activities and opportunities through newsletters, emails, and social media.
Recruits and advises adult leaders and volunteers. Conducts leader trainings and assists leaders with club organization and maintenance.
Engages youth in project work and life skill development through hands-on activities. Prepares and supports youth for demonstrations, speeches, camps, competitions, and leadership roles at the county, district, state levels and potentially nationally. Provides training and guidance for 4-H clubs, and judging teams, including competition preparation. Offers ongoing mentoring to strengthen leadership and communication skills of youth and volunteers. Provides supervision and support for youth during 4-H programs and events, with the expectation of participating in district and state O-Ramas that will involve travel and overnight stays.
Employs effective evaluation techniques to measure the impact of county 4-H programs. Compiles and communicates program results to the county advisory committee, Extension Council, stakeholders and local government officials on an annual basis.
Leverages Extension specialists and research-based information to design, implement and teach educational programs in all 4-H program areas. Responds to clientele inquiries through phone consultations, e-mails, in-person office and site visits, providing tailored researched based recommendations as required.
Ensures compliance with civil rights requirements and maintains current knowledge of applicable rules and regulations. Ensures all programs are accessible to the public and maintains accurate records to demonstrate compliance.
Maintains a working knowledge of researched based youth education practices and programs by attending in-service trainings offered through Arkansas Extension, professional development associations and other opportunities deemed appropriate by their supervisor and/or district director.
Supports the county agriculture or family and consumer science programs and related activities, including educational programming, demonstrations and fundraising efforts. Contributes to program delivery at the county, district, and state levels.
Demonstrates knowledge of and adherence to University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture policies and procedures, ensuring alignment with institutional standards in all professional activities.
Performs additional responsibilities as assigned by the immediate supervisor or district director.