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Position Number: W-00111153-1026
Primary Function of Organizational Unit:
Are you looking for a rewarding career that will let you give back to your community? NC State Extension extends research-based knowledge to all North Carolinians, helping them transform science into everyday solutions that improve their lives and grow our state. We are a model of excellence in non-formal, research-based education that advances agriculture, the environment, human health and well-being, youth and communities, while creating prosperity for all North Carolinians. Working for NC State Extension allows you to teach without being tied to a classroom or school bell.
The position may be hired at the Assistant, Associate, or Full Agent level if the selected candidate meets the required qualifications.
North Carolina Cooperative Extension gives our residents easy access to the resources and expertise of NC State University and NC A&T State University. Through educational programs, publications, and events, Cooperative Extension field faculty deliver unbiased, research-based information to North Carolina residents.
Buncombe County has a rich history of livestock production. From traditional family dairy farms, production beef operations, to an expanding small ruminant interest. Livestock production is evident on almost every corner of the county. Each farm presents its own uniqueness and traditional value.
The Livestock Agent will serve Buncombe County which has close to 278,000 residents encompassing roughly 422,368 acres, with an average farm size of approximately 73 acres. Of the 1074 farms in the county, 53% are classified as small operations. The county is home to a variety of farms, from small productive spaces to large acreage. Agricultural enterprises are equally varied, ranging from cattle farms and livestock operations to mixed vegetable farms, herb and flower farms, greenhouse facilities, and an endless blend of crop diversity. Farms are located in every community, from our beautiful rural areas to the vibrant city hub of Asheville where crops are grown in intensively managed plots within city limits. Every farm is unique in topography, land resources, and the products they raise and sell.
Wolfpack Perks and Benefits
Although our employees are based in county offices across North Carolina, they enjoy the same benefits of being part of the NC State University community.
As a Pack member, you belong here, and can enjoy exclusive perks designed to enhance your personal and professional well-being. As you consider this opportunity, we encourage you to review our Employee Value Proposition and learn more about what makes NC State the best place to learn and work for everyone.
What we offer:
- Medical, Dental, and Vision
- Flexible Spending Account
- Retirement Programs
- Disability Plans
- Life Insurance
- Accident Plan
- Paid Time Off and Other Leave Programs
- 12 Holidays Each Year
- Tuition and Academic Assistance
- And so much more!
Disclaimer: Perks and Benefit eligibility is based on Part-Time or Full-Time Employment status. Eligibility and Employer Sponsored Plans can be found within each of the links offered.
Essential Job Duties:
NC Cooperative Extension in Buncombe County is seeking an Assistant Extension Agent, Livestock & Forages. The Assistant Extension Agent is a member of the staff of North Carolina Cooperative Extension (NCCE). Our Livestock Program offers technical support for learning specific aspects of livestock production, assessing properties for agricultural potential, and providing opportunities for youth to learn and compete. Whether you are a seasoned producer or are just beginning your experience in the agricultural realm, N.C. Cooperative Extension can provide educational tools and experiences for you to start out on your path with successful footing.
The agent in this position will provide leadership for the development, implementation and evaluation of an effective educational program and informational assistance to meet the needs of the county youth and adult populations in the following areas of responsibility: consumer & commercial livestock production, pasture management, animal nutrition, animal waste management systems, and leadership in developing the 4-H & youth livestock program. A successful Extension Agent must demonstrate an ability and enthusiasm for serving audiences of all cultural and economic backgrounds.
The person in this position must possess a high degree of animal science and livestock production knowledge, have excellent people and communication skills, be computer literate, and have the necessary education and experience to lead a strong Extension livestock education program. This position requires a person who can relate to the needs of our clientele, is adept at going out into the county on farm visits to engage target audiences, and who can increase program capacity by generating community resources and building partnerships.
Departmental Required Skills:
- A bachelor's degree in animal science, crop science, agronomy, or a related agricultural field is required.
- Experience working with a wide variety of livestock and crops.
- Ability to travel within the county and occasional travel outside the county/district.
Preferred Experience, Skills, Training/Education:
- A Master's degree.
- Extension or other professional experience, including a high level of computer competency.
Necessary Licenses or Certifications:
NC Liscense
AA/EOE Statement:
NC State University is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal opportunities for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, and veteran status. The University encourages all qualified applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities, to apply. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability-related accommodations in the application and interview process are welcome to contact 919-513-0574 to speak with a representative of the Office of Equal Opportunity.
If you have general questions about the application process, you may contact Human Resources at (919) 515-2135 or workatncstate@ncsu.edu.
Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. Degree(s) must be obtained prior to start date in order to meet qualifications and receive credit.
NC State University participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.
Department: 117103 - West District - Buncombe
Location: Asheville, NC

