Extension Agent, Ag - Livestock and Forages; Assistant, Associate or Agent

Extension Agent, Ag - Livestock and Forages (Assistant, Associate or Full Agent)

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. Working for NC State Extension allows you to teach without being tied to a classroom and school bell.

• Paid time off
• Paid tuition
• Retirement Savings
• Supplemental Benefits Programs
• Wolf Perks!

The position may be hired at the Assistant, Associate, or Full Agent level if the selected candidate meets the required qualifications. The role provides leadership for the development, implementation, and evaluation of effective educational programs in livestock production, forage production, pasture management, animal nutrition, and animal waste management systems. Beef cattle will be the primary species of focus, and the position will provide leadership to the Davidson County Cattlemen’s Association.

The position also supports and assists the 4‑H agent with youth livestock education programs, shows, and related events, and provides leadership and supervision of livestock shows during the Davidson County fair.

In addition, the agent serves as an advisor to the Voluntary Agriculture District (VAD) board, keeping VAD ordinances current and in line with state law.

• Develop and maintain organized programs that follow NC Cooperative Extension, county, and national laws, policies, and guidelines, including the Voluntary Agricultural District program.
• Determine clientele needs and assess the impact of agricultural programs on a regular basis.
• Work collaboratively with other Extension programs, staff, agencies, and community organizations to meet the needs of the agriculture community.
• Network with agents, specialists, and local agriculture producers to plan and implement innovative field days and educational programs.
• Promote agriculture within the county.
• Ensure the office is staffed and maintain respectful teamwork with colleagues.
• Engage the agricultural community, cattle producers, small ruminant producers, animal protein producers, equine enthusiasts, and potential new farmers.
• Assist in providing Extension leadership to the 4‑H & youth livestock program.
• Collaborate with county departments such as Emergency Services, Animal Control, Soil & Water, NRCS, and FSA to provide resources to clientele.
• Provide guidance on business planning and management as needed.
• Work with the county pesticide coordinator to provide educational pesticide training opportunities.
• Develop and market educational programs with measurable impacts and collaborate with other agencies and organizations to reach intended audiences.

Positions require a qualified education and experience. Education options include: A Bachelor's degree with a cumulative GPA of 2.5 overall or 3.0 in an agricultural or related field (minimum GPA waived for NCCE Program Associates with a Bachelor’s degree), a Bachelor's degree with at least half of a Master’s coursework with a GPA of 3.0 or higher (with at least one degree in an agricultural or related field), or a completed Master’s degree with at least one degree in an agricultural or related field.

Department

Required Skills:

• Bachelor’s degree in animal science, crop science, agronomy, or a related agricultural field.
• Experience working with a wide variety of livestock.
• Travel within the county and occasional travel outside the county/district.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s degree preferred.
• Extension or other professional experience, including high level of computer competency, is desired.

Required License or Certification:
None. Commercial Driver’s License:
No. Valid NC Driver’s License:
Yes.

8:00 am – 5:00 pm; evenings and weekends as required.

NC State University is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal opportunities for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, and veteran status.