Job Description

This position is located Botetourt County which is located in the southwestern portion of the state in the Roanoke Valley of Virginia. The county has a population of 33,596 people. Fincastle is the county seat. Other incorporated towns include Buchanan and Troutville. The primary agricultural commodities include beef cattle, small ruminants, and forage production. Locally grown produce is also becoming popular which includes some local fruit production. Public schools include seven elementary schools, 2 middle schools and 2 high schools. County residents enjoy scenic and outdoor attractions including access to the Jefferson National Forest and also the George Washington National Forest. Botetourt borders the Blue Ridge Parkway and is home to the headwaters of the mighty James River. The Botetourt Agriculture and Natural Resources Extension agent will respond to a wide variety of client interests and needs, with an emphasis on Animal Science.

The Extension Agent provides current research-based information to citizens by employing various delivery methods targeted to broad audiences; work closely with producers, agribusiness, 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 VCE's civil rights policies and equal opportunity compliance.

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.

Required Qualifications

Agent faculty positions require a minimum of a bachelor's degree (BA or BS) in a relevant discipline from an accredited college or university. A master's 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

Master's degree is preferred.

Overtime Status

Exempt: Not eligible for overtime

Appointment Type

Regular

Salary Information

$45,000 - $65,000

Hours per week

Varies

Close Date

February 11, 2026

Additional Information

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

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

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Virginia Tech

Blacksburg, VA, USA

"Associate Extension Agent, Agriculture & Natural Resources - Botetourt County"

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