Area Specialized Agent- Ag Business & Marketing

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.

About the Role

The Area Specialized Agent will work closely with North Carolina small farmers and Extension Agents within the multi-county area. The position will assess and respond to the needs of limited-resource small farmers and extension agents across the state. The successful candidate will collaborate with commodity-oriented teams of research and Extension specialists and develop a nationally recognized Extension and applied research program on small farms and production in the region.

Extension responsibilities will focus on developing educational programs and materials for limited-resource populations, small farmers, new and beginning small farmers, and other agribusinesses. The applied research program will address relevant and practical issues facing North Carolina’s small farmers and align with the mission and vision of Cooperative Extension at N.C. A&T.

This position will be located in the Harnett County Extension office and is expected to collaborate with other Extension staff in that office and those in surrounding counties (Anson, Richmond, Scotland, Hoke, Moore, Lee, Montgomery).

Responsibilities

• Assist farmers in identifying and accessing new market opportunities, both locally and regionally, to increase profitability and sustainability.
• Provide training and resources on innovative marketing strategies, including digital marketing, direct-to-consumer sales, and branding.
• Offer guidance on business planning, financial management, and risk mitigation tailored to small-scale farmers.
• Facilitate collaborations between farmers, local businesses, and community organizations to strengthen the local agribusiness network.
• Conduct workshops, seminars, and field days focused on agribusiness and marketing.
• Develop and lead applied research programs addressing practical issues for small farmers in North Carolina.

Requirements

• A Master’s degree from an accredited university in agricultural education, extension education, agricultural science, horticulture, animal sciences, or a related field. A relevant undergraduate degree with 3+ years of experience may substitute for candidates demonstrating comparable research or instructional background.
• Ability to work independently without direct supervision.
• Ability to work and interact with diverse populations.
• Skills in leadership, communication, networking, budgeting, and public relations.
• Proficiency in MS Excel, PowerPoint, Word, and Office.
• Strong oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to network with community partners and agencies and maintain working relationships.
• Valid Driver’s license and personal transportation.
• Ability to travel and work after hours/weekends as needed.
• Ability to lift and carry training supplies and equipment for farm demonstrations and workshops.

Preferred Qualifications

• Expertise in small-scale agriculture, agribusiness, marketing, specialty crops, season extension (high tunnels), community development, integrated pest management, or 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 farmers, and limited-resource clients.
• Experience planning virtual and in-person programs.
• Knowledge of mass media, marketing, and presentations.

Benefits

• 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 – 401k, 403b, 457b, and 457.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Campus Recreation Center discount.
• University Bookstore discount.