County Extension Agent - Family & Consumer Science

University of Arkansas•Prescott, NV

About The Position

The County Extension Agent – Family & Consumer Science conducts practical, community-based educational programs to empower individuals, families, and communities in nutrition, family well-being, health, food safety, and economic self-sufficiency. The agent works with a broad audience and local volunteers to encourage support and participation within the county. The agent maintains knowledge of county social, economic, and political characteristics; serves as a liaison with community leaders, agencies, and governments; and stays current on Arkansas Extension programs. The agent develops and carries out an annual action plan based on identified issues and observations, and plans and teaches educational programs, demonstrations, and activities that address local needs. The position uses Extension specialists and research-based information to develop and deliver programs in Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) priority areas, and responds to clientele questions through phone, email, office visits, and site visits. The agent advises Extension Homemaker Club (EHC) officers, boards, and members where a county EHC program exists, and supports the county 4-H program through FCS programming, competitive-event training, volunteer development, and fundraising. The agent evaluates program impact, reports results to relevant county and state groups and officials, maintains records and complies with civil rights requirements, and submits monthly reports. The agent collaborates with colleagues and community partners, builds a network of volunteers and supporters, pursues relevant professional development, and follows University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture policies. Additional responsibilities may be assigned by the immediate supervisor or district director.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in family and consumer sciences, education, youth development, or a related field, conferred by the date of hire; alternatively, a bachelor’s degree with relevant work experience.
Knowledge of family and consumer sciences subject matter relevant to the assigned county.
Ability to plan and conduct programs and work with clientele regardless of legally protected status.
Ability to speak and write clearly and communicate ideas effectively.
Ability to work long and irregular hours and travel frequently.
Reliable transportation for use on the job and liability insurance in effect.
Successful completion of the standard background check, including the Arkansas Child Abuse and Neglect Central Registry Check.

Responsibilities

Maintain knowledge of the county’s social, economic, and political characteristics and serve as a liaison with community leaders, agencies, and governments.
Maintain an up-to-date working knowledge of Arkansas Extension programs.
Develop and execute an annual action plan based on issues identified by programmatic subcommittees and personal observations.
Plan, deliver, and teach educational programs, demonstrations, and activities that address county clientele needs.
Provide opportunities for participation at county, district, and state levels and share educational information with government leaders, community organizations, and stakeholders.
Use Extension specialists and research-based information to design, implement, and teach programs in FCS priority areas.
Respond to clientele inquiries by phone, email, office visits, and site visits, providing tailored research-based recommendations.
Advise county Extension Homemaker Club officers, board, and members where an established EHC program exists; provide unbiased, research-based leader training and support EHC activities.
Support county 4-H programming, including FCS education, competitive-event training, volunteer recruitment and development, fundraising, and program delivery at county, district, and state levels.
Evaluate the impact of county FCS and 4-H programs and communicate results annually to advisory committees, Extension Council where applicable, and county and state officials.
Ensure compliance with civil rights requirements, promote accessibility and inclusivity, and maintain records demonstrating compliance.
Complete and submit required monthly reports.
Collaborate with colleagues, partners, and stakeholders to advance the Extension mission.
Establish and maintain productive working relationships with Extension staff, clientele, and the public.
Build a network of supporters and volunteers to assist with program delivery.
Maintain knowledge of research-based FCS practices and programs through in-service training, professional associations, and other appropriate development opportunities.
Follow University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture policies and procedures.
Perform additional responsibilities assigned by the immediate supervisor or district director.