COSS Support Specialist, Gaston County

NC State Extension Forestry; North Carolina; On-site; USD 29,305 - 35,818; Full time

Job summary

A North Carolina educational organization is seeking a full-time COSS Support Specialist to assist with office support, marketing, and administrative duties. The role requires strong computer skills, excellent customer service abilities, and the capability to multitask. Responsibilities include supporting Extension staff, interacting with visitors, and creating marketing materials. A high school diploma and two years of relevant experience are required, along with a valid driver's license and reliable transportation.

Qualifications

• Two years office assistance and secretarial experience or equivalent.
• Experience in web-page management and social media content publishing preferred.
• Valid Driver’s License and reliable transportation are required.

Responsibilities

• Provide specialized office support for staff and volunteers.
• Assure excellent customer service and greet office visitors.
• Create marketing and media pieces as appropriate.

Skills

Computer applications knowledge

Customer service

Organizational skills

Multitasking

Excellent interpersonal communication

Education

High school diploma

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Google Suite

Job description

Special Instructions

In addition to your application, please submit a resume, cover letter and the contact information for at least three (3) professional references.

Posting Details

Position Information
Position Number SC-00111887-0226
Posting Number PG190832CE
Position Type NC Cooperative Extension (EPS)
System Information
Working Title: COSS Support Specialist, Gaston County
Appointment: 12 Month Recurring Job Type Full-Time - Permanent FTE 1.00
Department Information
Job City & State: Gastonia, NC
Department: NCCE Gaston County

Essential Job Duties

The County Support Specialist is a member of the staff of the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service (NCCES). The part-time County Support Specialist’s primary responsibility is to provide specialized office support for staff and volunteers, program marketing assistance, and some administrative support duties for Extension program areas. The position duties reflect a relatively high degree of independence and accountability. Requires fluent computer and marketing skills, excellent customer service, and basic accounting skills.

Primary Function Of Organizational Unit

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, NC Cooperative Extension Field Faculty deliver unbiased, research-based information to North Carolina citizens.
For more information on Gaston County, you may visit their website at http://www.gastoncounty.us.

Duties And Responsibilities

The Extension Support Staff’s primary responsibility is to provide support to the Extension staff where assigned. The Extension Support Staff cooperates with colleagues in NCCES and with county leaders to perform assigned responsibilities. The performance of assigned responsibilities is governed by the philosophy, objectives, policies, and procedures of the NCCES.

Other Work/Responsibilities

N/A

Supervisory

Number of Permanent Employees this Position Supervises: 0
Percent of Time Spent: 0%

Requirements and Preferences

Work Schedule: Monday - Friday 8:00am to 5pm - business hours, occasionally evenings and weekends as requested. This is an in-person position. Remote or hybrid work is not available for this role. Minimum Experience/Education: Graduation from high school and two years office assistance and secretarial experience; or equivalent combination of training and experience.

Department Required Skills

An extensive knowledge of computer applications is required, including Microsoft Office Suite and Google Suite. Must have a willingness to learn new relevant software programs as they become essential. Must be highly motivated and have strong organizational skills and the ability to multitask.

Communication Skills

Must be able to greet office visitors and assist them with their concerns. Hand out appropriate educational materials to clientele as needed. Answer the phone in a correct manner and take messages. Make decisions that reflect the facts of a situation.

Teamwork

Work effectively with co-workers to accomplish organizational goals and identify and resolve problems. Interact with all staff to help ease workload in other areas.

Fiscal Management

Handle fees and write receipts according to NCSU and county government procedures.

Marketing And Media

Create marketing and media pieces as appropriate. Assist volunteers with special programs and requests.

General Office Tasks

Back up Administrative Assistant & other staff members as needed. Cover the office during staff lunch breaks. May be working alone in the office.

Preferred Years Experience, Skills, Training, Education

Graduation from high school and two years office experience; or equivalent combination of training and experience. Experience in web-page management, social media content publishing, newsletter design, and preparation preferred. Must have excellent interpersonal communication skills and the ability to provide excellent customer service.

Required License or Certification

Valid Driver’s License and reliable, personal transportation required. Valid North Carolina driver’s license is required within 60 days of hire and must be maintained. Valid NC Driver's License required? Yes Commercial Driver's License Required? No Physical Required? No List any other medical/drug tests required.

Recruitment

Anticipated Hiring Range: Starting at $32,562 - commensurate with experience. Internal Transfer Only: No

Recruitment Details

Job Open Date: 02/27/2026

Applicant Information

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.
General questions: Human Resources at [phone] 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.

Supplemental Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

Application Materials Required

Required Documents

• Resume
• Cover Letter
• Contact Information for References

Optional Documents