Associate Extension Agent, ANR, Agriculture and Economic Development Grayson County

Job Description

This position is located in Grayson County which is located in the southwestern portion of the state in the Appalachian region of Virginia. The county has a population of 15333 people. Independence is the county seat. Other incorporated towns include Fries and Troutdale. The primary agricultural commodities include beef cattle small ruminants forage production and Christmas trees. Public schools include four elementary schools two middle schools and one high school. Grayson County is known for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. Residents enjoy access to the Appalachian Trail that offers hiking and backpacking. The Grayson Highlands State Park is famous for its wild ponies as well as scenic views. The New River is one of the oldest rivers in the world that flows through Grayson County and offers canoeing kayaking and fishing.

The Extension Agent provides current research-based information to citizens by employing various delivery methods targeted to broad audiences; work 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 locals needs and problems related to agricultural production marketing and environmental protection; fosters communication among agricultural producers marketers processors and consumers; maintains a high level of proficiency in subject matter field by participating in in-service training 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. Extension Agents recognize the importance of all communities and broad reach in the development and delivery of Extension programs actively working to increase program participation of all people. Extension Agents are responsible for VCEs civil rights policies and equal opportunity compliance.

Individuals with a bachelors degree will be hired at the Associate Extension Agent title level. A masters degree and promotion to Extension Agent are required no later than the sixth year of employment.

Virginia Tech has an excellent benefits package; including graduate tuition waiver.

Required Qualifications

Agent faculty positions require a minimum of a bachelors degree (BA or BS) in a relevant discipline from an accredited college or university. A masters degree and promotion to Extension Agent are required no later than the sixth year of employment. Demonstrated ability to recruit select train and manage volunteers; demonstrated ability to lead groups plan implement facilitate teach and evaluate educational information programs; knowledge and use of computer technology in educational programming and management and presentation skills; excellent communication skills and the ability to work effectively with broad audiences; ability to work with minimal supervision in an unstructured setting. 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 travel to provide in-person leadership and to build community partnerships with few exceptions for telework.

Virginia Tech is unable to sponsor applicants for work visas for this vacancy.

Preferred Qualifications

Masters degree

Overtime Status

Exempt: Not eligible for overtime

Appointment Type

Restricted

Salary Information

$45000 - $65000

Hours per week

Varies

Review Date

October 31 2025

Additional Information

The successful candidate will be required to have a drivers license check with an acceptable and safe driving record.

The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.

About Virginia Tech

Dedicated to its mottoUt Prosim(That I May Serve) Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world Virginia Tech is aninclusive communitydedicated to knowledge discovery and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36000 undergraduate graduate and professional students in eightundergraduate colleges aschool of medicine aveterinary medicinecollegeGraduate School andHonors College.The university has a significant presence across Virginia including Blacksburg the greater Washington D.C. area the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke sites in Newport News and Richmond and numerousExtension officesandresearch institutes.A leading global research institution Virginia Tech conducts more than $650 million in research annually.

Virginia Tech endorses and encourages participation in professional development opportunities and university shared governance. These valuable contributions to university shared governance provide important representation and perspective along with opportunities for unique and impactful professional development.