County Extension Agent - Agriculture/4-H

University of Arkansas • Pine Bluff, AR

10h

About The Position

The University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture is a state wide campus, with faculty based on University campuses, at Research and Extension Centers and in every Arkansas county. It consists of the Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station (AES) and the Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service (CES), and is home to more than 1400 employees. The Division was established in 1959 and is headed by the Vice-President for Agriculture. The Division headquarters is located in Little Rock with the rest of the University of Arkansas System Administration. As an employer, the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture offers a vibrant work environment and a workplace culture that promotes a healthy work-life balance.

The County Extension Agent - Agriculture/4-H conducts practical, community-based educational programs to empower individuals, families, and communities in the areas of 4-H & Youth Development and Agriculture (with a Horticulture emphasis). 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, like Master Gardeners. The agent works closely with a broad audience base and volunteers to conduct educational programs for youth.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in agriculture, youth development, or related area of study is required. Degree must be conferred by the time 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 & Neglect Central Registry records.
• Knowledge in agricultural subject matter appropriate to the county (Horticulture emphasis).
• 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.
• Develops and executes an annual action plan based on issues identified by the programmatic Subcommittee(s) and personal observations. Plans, delivers and teaches educational programs, demonstrations, and activities that address the needs of the county’s clientele. Provides opportunities for program participation at the county, district, and state levels, while also sharing educational information with county government leaders, community organizations and stakeholders to support the overall Extension mission.
• Leverages Extension specialists and research-based information to design, implement and teach educational programs. Responds to clientele inquiries through phone consultations, e-mails, in-person office and farm visits, providing accurate diagnoses and tailored researched based recommendations as required.
• Supports the county 4-H program and related activities, including educational programming, training for competitive events, volunteer recruitment and development, and fundraising efforts. Contributes to program delivery at the county, district, and state levels.
• Employs effective evaluation techniques to measure the impact of county agriculture and 4-H programs. Compiles and communicates program results to the county advisory committee, Extension Council (if applicable), and county and state government officials on an annual basis.
• Ensures compliance with civil rights requirements and maintains current knowledge of applicable rules and regulations. Promotes inclusivity by ensuring all programs are accessible to the public and maintains accurate records to demonstrate compliance.
• Completes and submits required reports on a monthly basis to ensure accuracy, consistency, and accountability.
• Collaborate with colleagues, partners, and stakeholders to effectively carry out and advance the Extension mission.
• Establish and maintain good working relationships with Extension staff, clientele, and general public.
• Build a network of supporters and volunteers to assist in program delivery.
• Maintains a working knowledge of researched based agricultural production practices and programs by attending in-service trainings offered through Arkansas Extension, professional development associations and other opportunities deemed appropriate by their supervisor.
• 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.

Benefits

• As an employer, the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture offers a vibrant work environment and a workplace culture that promotes a healthy work-life balance.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Number of Employees: 1-10 employees