This position is in Campbell County in south central Virginia in the Piedmont Region near the Blue Ridge mountains. Centrally located in Virginia, Campbell County offers rural beauty and local cultural experiences while still being a reasonable driving distance to destinations such as Smith Mountain Lake, Crabtree Falls, and Mill Mountain Zoo. With a highly accredited public school system and within a 25-mile radius of seven colleges and universities, Campbell County provides exceptional opportunities for learners of all ages. Campbell County offers residents family-oriented communities as well as an adventurous environment.
The Associate Extension Agent provides current research-based information to citizens by employing various delivery methods targeted to diverse audiences; works closely with producers, agri-business, community leaders, Extension Leadership Councils and appropriate agents and specialists to identify and prioritize issues, problems and opportunities; uses farm and business visits as a means to remain knowledgeable of specific local needs and problems related to agricultural production, marketing, agritourism, and environmental protection; pursue and collaborate on agriculture related grants; fosters communication among agricultural producers, marketers, processors and consumers; maintains a high level of proficiency in subject matter field by participating in in-service trainings and professional activities; works closely with citizens and local, state, and federal officials to aid Virginia in preparing and responding to natural or other emergencies and disasters. Extension agents demonstrate flexibility, adaptability; a team-oriented mindset, yet are able to work independently, and strong desire to help clients succeed. The person in this position is expected to provide in-person leadership and to build community partnerships with few exceptions for telework.
The Campbell ANR Extension Agent will respond to a wide variety of client interests and needs, with an emphasis on ag marketing and value added agriculture products, farm business management, agricultural economics, and soil fertility. Additional subjects addressed are likely to include, but not be limited to, pasture and forage management, animal science, and environmental horticulture.
Extension agents recognize the importance of diversity and inclusion in the development and delivery of Extension programs, actively work to diversify program participation and are responsible for VCE's civil rights policies and compliance with affirmative action.
Individuals with a bachelor’s degree will be hired at the Associate Extension Agent title level. A master’s degree and promotion to Extension Agent are required no later than the sixth year of employment.
Virginia Cooperative Extension programs and employment are open to all, regardless of age, color, disability, gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, veteran status, or any other basis protected by law.
Virginia Tech has an excellent benefits package; including graduate tuition waiver.
Virginia Tech is unable to sponsor applicants for work visas for this vacancy.