Horticulture Program Assistant

Job Summary

In partnership with Travis County and Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, this position reports to both Travis County and Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service. The Horticulture Program Assistant performs consultative, technical and administrative work in the planning, development, implementation and monitoring of a social services program or programs. Analyzes program issues, completes policy and program analysis, conducts program research and presents program-related training and education. May coordinate or assist in coordinating the activities and functions of a designated social services program. May function as lead over subordinate program and/or other staff.

Duties And Responsibilities

• Participates in program planning and development.
• Implements, or assists in implementing program directives and initiatives.
• Serves as technical consultant for program and related policy and provides technical assistance on program services.
• Analyzes program and program policy issues and documents findings.
• Makes recommendations and implements related improvements.
• Works with program staff in determining trends and resolving technical problems.
• Plans, develops and conducts program-related educational sessions and training.
• Speaks to community and other groups.
• Serves as liaison with, and resource for community outreach and advocacy groups, service providers and others.
• Collaborates in coordinating, improving and stimulating interest in the program and may secure financial support for program as appropriate.
• Conducts program related research and evaluates findings.
• Prepares administrative and statistical reports, studies and specialized projects.
• Affirms or assists in affirming new program initiatives.
• May review case histories to evaluate the effectiveness of program standards and policies serving clients.
• May function as lead over subordinate program and other staff.
• Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

Minimum Requirements

• Education and Experience: Bachelor's degree in Social or Behavioral Sciences or a directly related field AND four (4) years experience in social services or a directly field; OR, Any combination of education and experience that has been achieved and is equivalent to the stated education and experience and required knowledge, skills, and abilities sufficient to successfully perform the duties and responsibilities of this job.
• Licenses, Registrations, Certifications, or Special Requirements: Valid Texas Driver's License.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of: Policies, practices and procedures within area of assignment. Federal, State and Local program laws and requirements. Advocacy groups, social service providers and community outreach organizations. Computer equipment to include word processing, spreadsheets, databases and a variety of software packages.
• Skill in: Program planning, developing and monitoring. Conducting education and training sessions and public speaking presentations. Problem-solving and decision-making. Both verbal and written communication.
• Ability to: Analyze, research and evaluate findings. Prepare administrative and statistical reports. Serve as technical consultant and liaison. Work independently. Manage time well and meet timelines. Communicate effectively. Establish and maintain effective working relationships with departmental clientele, representatives of outside agencies, other County employees and officials, community outreach and other organizations, clinical service providers, and the general public.

Physical requirements

• The ability to lift/carry up to 25 pounds occasionally, visual acuity, speech and hearing, hand and eye coordination and manual dexterity necessary to operate a computer and office equipment.
• Subject to standing, sitting, walking, climbing stairs, bending, stooping, crouching, kneeling, pushing, pulling, reaching, twisting, balancing, repetitive motion, driving, client/customer contact, and squatting to perform the essential functions.

Work Environment & Other Information

• Work Hours: 8 am - 5 pm, Monday-Friday. Occasional nights and weekends.
• Location: 1600 B Smith Road, Austin, Texas.
• Department: Co. Agricultural Ext Serv.
• Criminal, Driving, Education, and Employment Background Checks Required.

Contact Information

For updates or questions on this position, contact: HHS_HR@traviscountytx.gov