Agriculture Extension Agent | Dauphin & Lebanon Counties

Penn State Lady Lions; Harrisburg (Dauphin County); On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Penn State Extension is seeking an Extension Agent to be based in Dauphin and Lebanon Counties. The role focuses on expanding educational programming, providing technical assistance, and strengthening local agricultural networks.

The agent will engage with producers, communities, and partner agencies to promote best practices, biosecurity, and sustainable farm profitability. A valid driver’s license and ability to travel are required, with flexible hours to support events across the counties.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel extensively throughout the assigned county and occasionally statewide.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, to support educational programs, agricultural events, and community meetings.
• Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science, Agricultural Science, Plant Science, Agronomy, Agricultural Education, or closely related field (preferred).
• Experience with livestock, crop, or diversified agricultural production systems (preferred).
• Knowledge of agricultural production practices, biosecurity, nutrient management, farm management, or related areas (preferred).
• Demonstrated ability to build relationships with agricultural producers, community organizations, and partner agencies (preferred).
• Excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills (preferred).
• Strong organizational, time management, and problem-solving skills (preferred).
• Ability to work independently while contributing within a statewide team (preferred).
• Experience using technology to support communication, educational programming, and virtual learning (preferred).

Responsibilities

• Serve as Penn State Extension's county-level resource during agricultural emergencies and emerging animal or plant health issues.
• Support extension response efforts related to emerging agricultural threats, including avian influenza and other biosecurity concerns.
• Develop and implement farm biosecurity plans and other best management practices.
• Collaborate with producers, veterinarians, and agencies to promote disease prevention and resilience.
• Provide general agricultural technical assistance and on-farm consultations under guidance of Extension Educators.
• Respond to client questions with science-based recommendations and connections to Extension resources.
• Deliver educational programs through in-person, virtual, and hybrid formats.
• Coordinate local delivery of statewide Extension initiatives and programs.

Skills

Interpersonal communication

Written communication

Verbal communication

Organizational skills

Time management

Problem-solving

Education

Bachelor's degree

Bachelor's degree in Animal Science or Agricultural field

Job description

Penn State Extension is seeking an Extension Agent to be based in Dauphin and Lebanon Counties. The role focuses on expanding educational programming, providing technical assistance, and strengthening local agricultural networks.

The agent will engage with producers, communities, and partner agencies to promote best practices, biosecurity, and sustainable farm profitability. A valid driver’s license and ability to travel are required, with flexible hours to support events across the counties.