Extension Agent for Horticulture - Laurel County
Job Summary
The Extension Agent for Horticulture in Laurel County is responsible for developing, implementing, and evaluating educational programs that promote best practices in horticulture, addressing local needs through research-based instruction, field demonstrations, and hands-on learning experiences. This role involves leading leadership programs such as Master Gardeners, collaborating with businesses and community partners, and providing expertise to improve horticultural knowledge and economic opportunities. The agent also engages in public outreach, volunteer recruitment, and program evaluation while supporting Extension initiatives in agriculture, family and consumer sciences, 4-H youth development, and community arts.
Physical Requirements
- Job-related travel including overnight stays
- Visiting clientele at sites throughout the county (including farms)
- Standing/walking for long periods
- Handling of average-weight objects up to 25 lbs
Shift
Monday-Friday (8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.), with evenings and weekends as needed. Most weeks will exceed 40 hours.
Skills / Knowledge / Abilities
- Demonstrated ability to communicate orally and in writing with groups and individuals and through mass media
- Ability to use the computer for program delivery and management
- Ability to visit clientele at sites throughout the county
- Ability to plan and teach educational programs
- Demonstrated leadership and ability to serve as a positive role model
Supervisory Responsibilities
Yes
Preferred Education/Experience
- Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Agronomy/Plant Science/Horticulture; Agriculture Education/Leadership; Agricultural and Medical Biotechnology; Agriculture Economics; Animal Sciences; Community and Leadership Development; Equine Science and Management; General Agriculture; Forestry; Landscape Architecture; Natural Resources and Environmental Science; Sustainable Agriculture and Community Food Systems; General Biology; Ecology and Evolutionary Biology; Genetics, Genomics, and Bioinformatics; Physiology and Behavior; Plant Biology