Assistant Extension Agent, 4-H

NC State University; Raleigh (NC); On-site; USD 40,000 - 45,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental & vision benefits

Paid time off and holidays

Tuition and academic assistance

Job summary

NC State University in Clinton, NC is seeking an Assistant Extension Agent, 4-H to lead a county 4-H youth development program for ages 5-19. The role collaborates with Extension colleagues, county government, volunteers and partners to deliver research-based programming aligned with local needs.

The successful candidate will supervise staff, manage JCPC/grant programs, oversee budgets, and promote outreach while maintaining program quality and impact.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree with GPA 2.5 overall or 3.0 in child or youth development or related field.
• Master’s degree with related field may substitute for required education.
• Experience in 4-H or Cooperative Extension programming preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead, develop, and evaluate a comprehensive county 4-H program including clubs, after school programs, camps and special interest programs.
• Directly supervise three program assistants and provide leadership in hiring, training, and evaluation.
• Oversee JCPC programs, grants, budgeting, reporting and outcomes to ensure sustainability.
• Develop and manage program budgets, track revenues, and ensure compliance with policies.
• Recruit, train, and support volunteers; build partnerships with schools and community organizations.
• Market 4-H programs through local media and community engagement; expand reach to underserved audiences.
• Balance multiple duties with flexible scheduling and ongoing professional development.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Community engagement

Staff supervision

Education

Bachelor’s degree

Master’s degree (preferred)

Job description

Posting Number: PG190914CE

Position Number: SE-00061580-1026

Position Type: NC Cooperative Extension

Job City & State: Clinton, NC

Department : NCCE-Sampson County

Working Title: Assistant Extension Agent, 4-H

Appointment: 12 Month Recurring

Job Type: Full-Time - Permanent

FTE: 1.00

Essential Job Duties

Position Overview

The 4-H Extension Agent is a faculty member of NC State University and serves as a professional educator with primary responsibility for leading a comprehensive 4-H Youth Development program in Sampson County. This position provides leadership in planning, implementing, and evaluating research-based youth programs that develop life skills, leadership, and citizenship in youth ages 5-19.
The agent works collaboratively with Extension colleagues, county government, community partners, and volunteers to deliver high-quality programming that reflects local needs and priorities.
The position may be hired at the Assistant, Associate, or Full Agent level if the selected candidate meets the required qualifications.

Primary Function of Organizational Unit

Are you looking for a rewarding career that will let you give back to your community? 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. We are a model of excellence in non-formal, research-based education that advances agriculture, the environment, human health and well-being, youth and communities, while creating prosperity for all North Carolinians. Working for NC State Extension allows you to teach without being tied to a classroom or school bell.
North Carolina Cooperative Extension gives our residents easy access to the resources and expertise of NC State University and NC A&T State University. Through educational programs, publications, and events, Cooperative Extension field faculty deliver unbiased, research-based information to North Carolina residents.
Sampson County is the #1 agricultural county in North Carolina, with a strong rural base and a growing need for youth development, prevention programming, and leadership opportunities. For more information on Sampson County Extension go to: https://sampson.ces.ncsu.edu/ For more information on Sampson County go to: https://www.sampsoncountync.gov/Home
Wolfpack Perks and Benefits: Whilst our employees are based in county offices across North Carolina, they enjoy the same benefits of being part of the NC State University community. As a Pack member, you belong here, and can enjoy exclusive perks designed to enhance your personal and professional well-being. As you consider this opportunity, we encourage you to review our Employee Value Proposition and learn more about what makes NC State the best place to learn and work for everyone.
What we offer: Medical, Dental, and Vision, Flexible Spending Account, Retirement Programs, Disability Plans, Life Insurance, Accident Plan, Paid Time Off and Other Leave Programs, 12 Holidays Each Year, Tuition and Academic Assistance, And so much more! Attain Work-life balance with our Childcare benefits, Wellness & Recreation Membership, and Wellness Programs that aim to build a thriving wolfpack community.
Disclaimer: Perks and Benefit eligibility is based on Part-Time or Full-Time Employment status. Eligibility and Employer Sponsored Plans can be found within each of the links offered.

Duties and Responsibilities

Program Leadership & Delivery

• Lead, develop, and evaluate a comprehensive county 4-H program, including clubs, school enrichment, after school programs, camps, and special interest programs.
• Conduct needs assessments and align programming with community priorities and emerging youth issues.
• Ensure programs are research-based and measurable in impact.

Supervision & Staff Management

• Directly supervise three program assistants:
  • 1 – 4-H Program Assistant
  • 2 – JCPC Program Assistants
• Provide leadership in hiring, training, work planning, evaluation, and day-to-day supervision.
• Foster a strong team culture focused on accountability and program delivery.

JCPC & Grant Program Management

• Manage Juvenile Crime Prevention Council (JCPC) programs, including:
  • Teen Court / Restitution
  • Youth Inspire
  • Prevention programs
• Oversee multiple grant-funded programs, including budgeting, compliance, reporting, and program outcomes.
• Coordinate with county leadership and funding agencies to ensure program success and sustainability.

Financial & Budget Management

• Develop and manage program budgets, including grant and fee-based funding sources.
• Receive and track program revenues, including fees, donations, and other funding streams.
• Identify funding opportunities, write and manage grants, and ensure deliverables are met.
• Ensure all expenditures comply with grant requirements as well as Sampson County and NC State University financial policies and procedures.
• Maintain accurate financial records and documentation to support audits and reporting requirements.
• Meet all financial deadlines, including reporting, invoicing, and budget reconciliation.

Volunteer Development & Community Engagement

• Recruit, train, and support adult and teen volunteers.
• Build partnerships with schools, agencies, and community organizations.
• Engage advisory groups and stakeholders in program planning and evaluation.

Program Promotion & Outreach

• Market 4-H programs through local media, digital platforms, and community engagement.
• Promote participation at county, district, and state levels.
• Expand program reach to underserved audiences.

Other Work/Responsibilities

Timely response to client requests for specific and technical information regarding youth education and related topics. The successful candidate will be expected to maintain and increase personal professional competencies. The candidate must be flexible to allow for changing responsibilities as needed.
District and State level youth and professional development events that require overnight travel.

Number of Permanent Employees this Position Supervises: 3

Percent of Time Spent: 50%

Identify if the Position is Mandatory / Essential / Key: Not Applicable

Work Schedule: Standard office hours with flexibility. Regular evening and weekend programming required

Minimum Experience/Education: One of the following educational requirements: - A Bachelor’s degree with a cumulative grade point average of 2.5 overall or a 3.0 (based on a 4.0 scale) in child or youth development or related field. The minimum GPA requirement will be waived for NCCE Program Associates with a Bachelor’s degree. - A Bachelor’s degree and the completion of at least one-half of coursework in a Master’s degree curriculum with a cumulative grade point average 3.0 or higher with at least one of the degrees in child or youth development or related field, or - Completion of a Master’s degree with at least one of the degrees in child or youth development or related field.

Department Required Skills

• Experience working with broad audiences.
• Ability to handle multiple tasks and establish priorities.
• Ability to be self-directed and work independently.
• Leadership skills.
• Social skills to communicate effectively.

Preferred Years Experience, Skills, Training, Education

• Master’s degree in a related field
• Experience with 4-H or Cooperative Extension programming
• Experience supervising staff
• Grant writing and grant management experience
• Experience working with at-risk or court-involved youth populations

Required License or Certification: NA

Valid NC Driver's License required?: Yes

Commercial Driver's License Required?: No

Physical Required?: No

Anticipated Hiring Range: Minimum $40,000–$45,000, commensurate with education and experience.

Internal Transfer Only: No

Job Open Date: 11/04/2026

Quick Link: https://jobs.ncsu.edu/postings/236729

EEO

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. The University encourages all qualified applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities, to apply. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability-related accommodations in the application and interview process are welcome to contact 919-513-0574 to speak with a representative of the Office of Equal Opportunity.
If you have general questions about the application process, you may contact Human Resources at (919) 515‑2135 or [e-mail].
Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. Degree(s) must be obtained prior to start date in order to meet qualifications and receive credit.
NC State University participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.