Careers at Virginia Tech

The Agriculture and Naturals Resources Extension Agent, in the area of Crop and Soil Environmental Sciences, provides current research-based information to citizens by employing various delivery methods targeted to diverse audiences. The Agent will work closely with producers, agri-business, community leaders, and Extension Leadership Councils. This position will work with appropriate agents and specialists to identify and prioritize issues, problems and opportunities; use farm and business visits as a means to remain knowledgeable of specific locals needs and problems related to agricultural production, marketing, and environmental protection; foster communication among agricultural producers, marketers, processors and consumers; maintain a high level of proficiency in subject matter field by participating in in-service training and professional activities; work 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 possess a strong desire to help clients succeed.

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.

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. Agent faculty positions require a minimum of a bachelor's degree (BA or BS) in a relevant discipline from an accredited college or university. 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 low income, limited resource and minority audiences; ability to work with minimal supervision in an unstructured setting. The person in the position is expected to travel to provide in-person leadership and
to build community partnerships with few exceptions for telework.

A master's degree is preferred.

Regular

$45,000 - $65,000

April 4, 2024

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.

Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including the Innovation Campus in Northern Virginia; the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke; sites in Newport News and Richmond; and numerous Extension offices and research centers. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $500 million in research annually.