Extension Assistant - Horticulture (CEFS)

Primary Purpose of Position

This position serves as the Horticulture and Natural Resources Extension Assistant at the Small Farms Unit of the Center for Environmental Farming Systems in Goldsboro, NC. In collaboration with Extension Specialists, this position assists in the management, implementation, and dissemination of research based educational programs that meet the needs of limited-resource and socially-disadvantaged audiences, consistent with the philosophy, policy and overall mission, goals and educational objectives of North Carolina Cooperative Extension.

Responsibilities

• Assisting with applied research and demonstrations related to testing various production methods and sustainable crop development
• Conducting multiple field-staff and farmer trainings in sustainable crop production

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Plant Sciences, Applied Horticulture, Agriculture or Extension Education in related field
• Two or more years of experience with horticulture crop production and organic production systems
• Computer literacy (proficiency in MS Excel, PowerPoint, Word, and Office)
• Strong oral and written communication skills as well as strong interpersonal skills
• Ability to handle multiple demands and set priorities
• Ability to lift at least 50 pounds safely to manage farm demonstration equipment
• Valid Driver's license and personal transportation
• Ability to travel and work after hours/weekends as needed

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree in Plant Sciences, Applied Horticulture, Agriculture, or Extension Education in related field
• Three or more years of work experience with horticulture crop production and organic production systems
• Three or more years of experience working in an occupation directly related to the position requirements
• Knowledge of agriculture, small family businesses, and farm machinery
• Experience working effectively as a team member
• Ability to manage time and resources

Pay

Recruitment Salary Range: $40,000-$50,000

Schedule

40 hours/week, 12 months, permanent full-time. On-site position (employees are primarily in the office and/or have a critical job requirement that requires dedicated office space on-site). Position available June 15, 2026.

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