Extension Agent, Ag-Hort (Assistant, Associate, or Full)

North Carolina State University; Manteo (NC); On-site; USD 36,000 - 44,000; Full time

Job summary

North Carolina State University in Manteo, NC seeks an Extension Agent, Ag-Hort to plan and deliver research-based horticulture programs for Dare County. The role focuses on translating knowledge into practical education for residents and visitors through non-formal programming and community partnerships.

The agent will lead volunteer recruitment, training, and coordination, including Extension Master Gardeners, and mentor youth horticulture initiatives while coordinating with local

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree with GPA 2.5 overall or 3.0 in an agricultural/related field
• Bachelor’s plus half of Master’s coursework with 3.0+ GPA in an agricultural/related field; or
• Master’s degree with at least one degree in an agricultural/related field.

Responsibilities

• Provide horticulture programming and translate research-based knowledge into practical community-facing programming in Dare County.
• Plan, implement, and evaluate outcome-based programs; diagnose plant problems and identify plants and pests.
• Recruit, train, and manage volunteers (including Extension Master Gardeners) to expand outreach.
• Support community gardens and develop youth horticulture initiatives.
• Communicate with diverse audiences using mass media, in-person events, and digital channels.

Skills

Horticulture knowledge

Educational program delivery

Volunteer management

Community outreach

Effective communication

Technology skills

Education

Bachelors in horticulture or related field

Master’s degree in agricultural field

Doctorate in a related field

Tools

MS Office

Data collection/record keeping

Job description

Overview

Position: Extension Agent, Ag-Hort (Assistant, Associate, or Full)

Appointment: 12 Month Recurring • Job Type: Full-Time - Permanent • FTE: 0.9375

Location: Manteo, NC (Dare County) • Department: NCCE Dare County

Primary Purpose and Organizational Context

The agent will be responsible for horticulture programming in Dare County, planning, implementing, and evaluating an outcome-based program addressing issues and opportunities identified in the county. The agent must have technical competence in consumer and commercial horticulture and in the delivery of non-formal education programs, including identification of plants and pests and diagnosis of plant problems. The agent will develop and work with stakeholder-based committees, collaborate with community organizations to link Extension with local resources and clients, and assist with recruiting, training, and managing Extension Master Gardener and other volunteers to expand outreach efforts. The role includes supporting community gardens and developing youth horticulture programming.

Responsibilities

• Provide horticulture programming, deliver non-formal education, and translate research-based knowledge into practical, community-facing programming in Dare County.
• Plan, implement, and evaluate outcome-based programs; identify issues and opportunities; diagnose plant problems and identify plants and pests.
• Work with stakeholder committees and community organizations to align Extension programs with local needs; recruit, train, and manage volunteers (including Extension Master Gardeners) to expand outreach.
• Support community gardens and develop youth horticulture initiatives.
• Communicate effectively with diverse audiences using multiple formats (mass media, in-person events, and digital channels).

Organizational Context and Collaboration

North Carolina Cooperative Extension provides access to the resources and expertise of NC State University and NC A&T State University. Extension faculty deliver unbiased, research-based information through educational programs, publications, and events.

Requirements and Qualifications

• Minimum Education/Experience: Either
  • A Bachelor's degree with a cumulative GPA of 2.5 overall or 3.0 in an agricultural or related field (GPA waiver for NCCE Program Associates with a Bachelor's degree); or
  • A Bachelor's degree plus at least half of Master’s coursework with a 3.0+ GPA in an agricultural or related field; or
  • A Master’s degree with at least one degree in an agricultural or related field.
• Department Required Skills:
  • A bachelor’s degree in a horticulture-related field is required; technical competence in horticulture and ability to deliver educational programs.
  • Travel within the district is required; occasional travel outside the district may be required.
• Preferred Experience/Training:
  • A Master’s degree at time of hiring is desirable; pursuit of a Master’s degree after hiring is expected.
  • Experience in horticulture including turf and ornamentals, home gardening, fruits and vegetables, pest management, etc.
  • Ability to manage volunteers, collaborate in a team, strong written and verbal communication, and strong technology skills.
• Licenses/Certifications:
  • Valid Driver’s License and reliable transportation; NC driver’s license must be obtained within 60 days of hire and maintained.
  • Other licenses as required by the position.
• Physical/Other: No physical requirement specified.

Work Schedule

Schedule: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday, with some nights and weekends as needed.

Experience Spotlight

North Carolina Dare County has a strong Extension Master Gardener volunteer program; the group provides community education and supports local outreach. Dare County features the Outer Banks with a significant coastline and multiple municipalities. For information about the Dare County Center and center resources, see the Dare County and NCCE websites.

Salary and Hiring Details

Anticipated Hiring Range: Minimum Bachelor’s $40,000; Minimum Master’s $45,000; Minimum Doctorate $50,000; commensurate with experience at 1.00 FTE. This position is open to internal and external candidates.

Application and Equity

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, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, or veteran status. Reasonable accommodations in the application and interview process are available. Final candidates are subject to background checks; E-Verify participation is required.