This position will provide educational programming in the Agricultural and Natural Resources area in Athens-Clarke County. This will include managing the Agricultural & Natural Resources program in Athens-Clarke County by providing educational opportunities in production agriculture, horticulture, and natural resources to a wide variety of audiences utilizing multiple teaching methods. There is over $23 million in Ornamental Horticulture and Turf production, over $4.7 million in Livestock and Poultry Production, and close to one million in greenhouses and organic vegetable production in the county. With a population of just over 127,000 and as the home to the University of Georgia, this county is one of the more urban counties in the area and has a need for a county agent that can deliver programming for many sectors of the agricultural community.

This position requires frequent night meetings, some weekend work, and attendance at out-of-county meetings. A valid driver’s license and access to a reliable private vehicle for official duty travel are required. Reimbursement for business travel will be provided. Transportation of others including 4-H Youth and Adult Clientele is also a common and necessary function of the job. 4-H competitions, overnight camps, and other events are conducted at district and state levels and necessitate travel and transport of participants.

A Master’s degree in Agriculture or related area; a Bachelor’s degree is acceptable for a Public Service Provisional appointment.

-Computer skills including knowledge of Microsoft Office suite
-Ability to speak to/teach large groups of residents
-Ability to organize and carry out activities and programming for youth
-Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with county, district, and state staff, local government employees, and clientele
-Ability to show high standards of professionalism in personal contacts, appearance, and work habits
-Ability to express thoughts clearly and concisely through written and verbal communication
-Ability to work as a team member and engage with groups and committees
-Ability to design, coordinate, and teach educational programs to meet community needs
-Skills in leadership and management

Responsible for managing the Agricultural & Natural Resources program in Athens-Clarke County by providing educational opportunities in production agriculture, horticulture, and natural resources to a wide variety of audiences utilizing multiple teaching methods:
• Utilizes the expertise of and works closely with advisory groups, community leaders, public officials and representatives of intended audiences to analyze data, identify needs, and assist in developing educational programs
• Develops a plan of work that is equitable in meeting the needs of the county’s varied socio-economic population
• Develops and conducts relevant interdisciplinary programs with other staff members based on critical issues
• Collaborates with other agencies and community groups to plan and implement programs
• Conducts promotional efforts to expand the public’s view of extension programming
• Utilizes current research data and information on emerging issues in program development and teaching
• Demonstrates personal interest and involvement in the community by participating in and supporting civic/community activities/organizations and networking with community leaders
• Ensures the Civil Rights/Equal Opportunity plan of UGA Cooperative Extension is followed and that volunteers and clientele understand Cooperative Extension offers educational programs, assistance, and materials to all people without regard to race, ethnicity, national origin, color, gender, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, or veteran status
The faculty member would also assist the County Extension Program Assistant with the 4-H program.