"Associate Extension Agent, Agriculture & Natural Resources - City of Danville"

Job Description

The City of Danville was established near the Virginia-North Carolina border in 1793. It is a relatively small city in central southern Virginia with 43,000 residents. Danville has the benefits of small town feel with big city assets. There are a variety of attractions that would pique the interest of many including local historical sites, live concerts and plays at The Carrington Pavilion, a Science Center featuring a Digital Dome Theater, a bustling Farmer’s Market, and Danville Riverwalk Trail, all within walking distance downtown. https://www.danville-va.gov/1176/Attractions

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 homeowner and business visits as a means to remain knowledgeable of specific local needs and problems related to horticultural production, marketing, and environmental protection; fosters communication among horticulture 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. The person in this position is expected to travel to provide in-person leadership and to build community partnerships with few exceptions for telework.

Requires basic knowledge of horticulture, including crop production; integrated pest management and plant diagnostics, plant physiology, pathology, weed science, and pesticide management; economics and marketing; and biotechnology developments. The position also requires basic knowledge of environmental issues, herbaceous and woody ornamentals, interior plants, and fruits; as well as soils, water and nutrient management.

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

A master's degree is preferred.

Overtime Status

Exempt: Not eligible for overtime

Appointment Type

Regular

Salary Information

$45,000 - $65,000

Hours per week

40

Review Date

September 30, 2025

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.