Area Specialized Agent- Ag Business & Marketing (Pender County)

Primary Purpose Of Position

The Area Specialized Agent will work closely with North Carolina small farmers and Extension Agents within the multi-county area. The position will work to assess and respond to the needs of limited-resource small farmers and extension agents across the state of North Carolina. The successful candidate will collaborate closely with commodity-oriented teams of research and Extension specialists and will be expected to develop and lead a nationally recognized Extension and applied research program on small farms and production in the region of North Carolina. 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 focus on addressing 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 Pender County Extension office and is expected to collaborate with other Extension staff in that office and those in surrounding counties (Cumberland, Sampson, Robeson, Bladen, Columbus, Brunswick, and New Hanover). The primary focus of the Area Specialized Agent will be to support small farmers in these counties through: 1. Market Development: Assisting farmers in identifying and accessing new market opportunities, both locally and regionally, to increase the profitability and sustainability of their operations. 2. Innovative Marketing Strategies: Providing training and resources on the latest marketing techniques, including digital marketing, direct-to-consumer sales, and branding strategies, to help farmers effectively reach and engage with their target audiences. 3. Business Development: Offering guidance on business planning, financial management, and risk mitigation, tailored to the unique needs of small-scale farmers. 4. Collaborative Initiatives: Facilitating collaborations between farmers, local businesses, and community organizations to create synergistic opportunities and strengthen the local agribusiness network. 5. Educational Programs: Conducting workshops, seminars, and field days focused on agribusiness and marketing, ensuring that farmers have access to the latest knowledge and best practices.

Minimum Requirements

A Master’s degree from an accredited university in agricultural education, extension education, agricultural science, horticulture, animal sciences, or a related field is required; for candidates demonstrating comparable independent research productivity or comparable background in independent academic or instructional activities, will accept a relevant undergraduate degree and 3 or more years of relevant experience in substitution. The ability to work independently without direct supervision. The ability to work and interact with diverse populations. The ability to conduct applied research with limited technical support. Skills in leadership, communication, networking, budgeting, and public relations. Computer literacy (proficiency in MS Excel, PowerPoint, Word, and Office) Strong oral and written communication skills as well as strong interpersonal skills. The ability to network with community partners and agencies and maintain working relationships. The ability to handle multiple demands and set priorities. Valid Driver’s license and personal transportation. The ability to travel and work after hours/weekends as needed. Must be able to lift and carry training supplies and equipment needed for farm demonstrations and workshops.

Preferred Years Experience, Skills, Training, Education

Expertise in one of several subjects as they relate to small scale agriculture, Ag-business, marketing, Specialty Crops & Vegetables, Season Extension (High Tunnels), Community development, Integrated Pest Management, Livestock (swine, poultry, and ruminants.) Experience of 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 small farmers and ranchers, and limited resource clients. Experience planning virtual and face to face programs. Experience and knowledge of mass media, marketing, and presentations.