Extension Agent Job Descriptions
Responsibilities
Agents must determine program needs by monitoring trends and issues, involving Extension leadership councils and other leadership committees; design programs to meet needs of target audiences, specify program goals and objectives, and identify resources; inform clientele of program activities; use appropriate technologies to plan and deliver programs through workshops, seminars, conferences, one-on-one visits, on-farm demonstrations, field trips and tours; maintain knowledge of current research information; develop computer applications; develop and implement evaluation plans; recruit and utilize volunteers; and report results to clientele, public and administration. 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.
Qualifications
Agent faculty positions require a bachelor's degree at time of employment with at least one degree in a discipline related to the subject matter specialty area. Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing: ability to recruit, train and manage volunteers; and experience in developing positive interactions with the public are required. Experience planning, implementing, marketing, and evaluating programs is preferred. A master's degree and promotion to Extension Agent are required no later than the sixth year of employment.
Extension agents hold lecturer rank, non-tenure track, professional faculty positions. Agriculture and Natural Resource agent positions and Family and Consumer Sciences positions have area responsibilities in their program specialty. Salary is commensurate with qualifications and experience.