Department Contact: Monica Lury, 505-983-4615, northern@nmsu.edu

Internal or External Search: External - Open to all applicants

Advertising Summary: The Cooperative Extension Service at New Mexico State University invites applications for an Extension 4-H Agriculture and Natural Resources Agent. The successful candidate will provide leadership in Agriculture and Natural Resources education while directing a vibrant 4-H Youth Development program that prepares the next generation of agricultural leaders.

Position Details

Position Title: Ext Ag Agent

College/Division: Cooperative Extension Service

Department: 312600-ADMIN PRGM TORRANCE CTY

Location: NMSU satellite location

Offsite Location (if applicable): Torrance County, Estancia NM

Target Hourly/Salary Rate: $62,000 commensurate with qualifications.

Appointment Full-time Equivalency: 1.0

FLSA Status: Exempt

Bargaining Unit Announcement: This is NOT a bargaining unit position with the National Education Association (NEA).

Contingent Upon Funding: Not Applicable

Standard Work Schedule: Shift: Other Shift

If Not a Standard Work Schedule: May work evenings and weekends

Job Duties and Responsibilities: The Cooperative Extension Service seeks a dynamic and innovative Extension Agent to provide leadership for Agriculture and Natural Resources (ANR) and 4-H Youth Development programming. The Agent will develop, implement, and evaluate educational programs addressing agriculture, natural resource management, livestock production, crop production, water conservation and use, rangeland stewardship, and related agricultural issues.

A major responsibility is leadership of the county 4-H Youth Development Program, engaging youth and adult volunteers in experiential learning opportunities that develop life skills, leadership capacity, workforce readiness, and agricultural literacy.

• Assess community needs and develop educational programs in agriculture and natural resources.
• Deliver research-based education related to livestock production, crop production, water conservation and irrigation, soil health, rangeland management, sustainability, and agricultural economics.
• Provide leadership and educational support related to land and water use issues impacting agricultural communities.
• Provide overall leadership for the county 4-H Youth Development Program with emphasis on Agriculture and Natural Resources.
• Recruit, train, mentor, and support adult and youth volunteers.
• Organize and support 4-H clubs, camps, contests, workshops, fairs, leadership events, and experiential learning activities.
• Serve as advisor and chaperone at county, district, state, and national 4-H events.
• Collaborate with schools, youth-serving organizations, agencies, and community partners.
• Support county fairs, livestock shows, and Extension educational events.
• Prepare required reports and support LEADS 2025 strategic initiatives.
• Work flexible schedules and travel as necessary.

Qualifications

Required Education and Experience: 
Master's degree (in hand by hire date) required. At least one degree must be in Agriculture or a related field. Or may be underfilled as an Extension Associate I (Entry $52,000 commensurate with qualifications). Bachelor's degree in Agriculture or related field with a cumulative 2.5 GPA or higher required. Must complete a master's degree within 5 years of hire date to continue employment. Promotion to assistant professor rank will be based on performance and Dean's approval.

Equivalent Qualifications: 

Preferred Qualifications: 
Master's degree preferred in Agriculture, Agricultural Education, Animal Science, Range Science, Natural Resource Management, Agronomy, Water Resources, Youth Development, Extension Education, or a related field.
Experience in Cooperative Extension, agricultural education, youth development, or a related field.
Knowledge of livestock production, crop systems, water management, rangelands, soil health, and sustainable agriculture.
Experience working with agricultural producers and rural communities.
Familiarity with the 4-H Youth Development Program and positive youth development principles.
Experience recruiting, training, and managing volunteers.
Strong oral and written communication skills and ability to work with diverse audiences.

Special Certification/Licensure: 

Working Conditions and Physical Effort

Environment: Work involves moderate exposure to unusual elements, such as extreme temperatures, dirt, dust, fumes, smoke, unpleasant odors, and/or loud noises.

Physical Effort: Light physical effort. Effort applies to no more than two (2) hours per day.

Lifting Requirements: Requires handling of average-weight objects up to 25 pounds or standing and/or walking for more than four (4) hours per day.

Risk: Work environment involves some exposure to hazards or physical risks, which require following basic safety precautions.