Area Specialized Agent- Farm Production; Lenoir

Area Specialized Agent – Small Farm Production (Lenoir County)

Position Number: 007631

Annual Salary Range: Commensurate with education and experience

The Area Specialized Agent will collaborate with North Carolina small farmers and Extension Agents across the multi‑county areas to assess and address the needs of limited‑resource farmers. The successful candidate will work with commodity‑oriented teams of research and extension specialists to develop and lead a nationally recognized extension and applied research program focused on small farm production in the region.

• Create educational materials and programs for limited‑resource populations and new and beginning farmers.
• Lead an applied research program addressing practical issues facing small farmers in North Carolina and align with the mission of Cooperative Extension at N.C. A&T.
• Enhance the quality of life and income for small farming families through adoption of appropriate technology, alternative enterprises, improved production for local markets, farm management, record‑keeping, and diversified marketing strategies.
• Collaborate with other agents in the Lenoir County Extension office and surrounding counties (Wayne, Duplin, Craven, Jones, Onslow, Pamlico, and Carteret).

• Relevant post‑baccalaureate degree required; for candidates with comparable independent research productivity or background in independent academic or instructional activities, a relevant undergraduate degree and ≥3 years of relevant experience is acceptable.
• A master’s degree from an accredited university in agricultural education, extension education, agricultural science, horticulture, animal sciences, or a related field is required.
• Ability to work independently without direct supervision.
• Ability to work and interact with diverse populations.
• Ability to lead applied research.
• Skills in leadership, communication, networking, budgeting, and public relations.
• Computer literacy – proficiency in MS Excel, PowerPoint, Word, and Office.
• Strong oral and written communication skills and strong interpersonal skills.

• Expertise in one or more of: small‑scale agriculture production, marketing, specialty crops & vegetables, season extension (high tunnels), community development, integrated pest management, livestock (swine, poultry, ruminants).
• Experience in direct marketing of agricultural products.
• Experience with applied research on farm plots.
• Experience writing and administering grants.
• At least five years of extension experience working with small farms, socially disadvantaged small farmers and ranchers, and limited‑resource clients.
• Experience planning virtual and face‑to‑face programs.
• Experience and knowledge of mass media, marketing, and presentations.

• Accrued vacation and sick leave for eligible employees.
• Community service leave.
• Aetna – State health benefits of North Carolina.
• NCFlex – Vision, dental, flexible spending account, life insurance and more.
• 12 paid holidays.
• Teachers and State Employees Retirement System (TSERS).
• Optional supplemental plans – 401(k), 403(b), 457(b) and 457.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Campus recreation center discount.
• University bookstore discount.
• And more.

On‑site:
Employees are primarily in the office and/or have a critical job requirement that requires dedicated office space on‑site.

This position may be eligible for a remote or hybrid work arrangement, consistent with university and state policies. N.C. A&T employees are generally required to reside in North Carolina, within a 2‑hour commuting distance of their assigned duty station.

North Carolina A&T State University is an Equal Opportunity and Affidavit Action Employer. No one who applies or seeks employment will be denied admission to or employment at North Carolina A&T State University on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, age, disabling condition, veteran status, political affiliation, genetic information or sexual orientation and sexual identity.

Applicants must complete and submit an electronic application for employment to be considered. Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of completing an electronic application. Applicants seeking veteran’s preference must attach a DD‑214 form. Final candidates are subject to criminal and sex offender background checks.

Employees are subject to North Carolina A&T State University’s use of E‑Verify.