Visiting Instructor (Agent in Training) - Extension Service

Major Responsibilities: The expectation of the Extension Agent-In-Training position is to provide the incumbent an opportunity to observe, learn and develop skills necessary to become an Extension agent. The individual will conduct informal educational programs and teach in all program areas of agriculture and natural resources, 4-H youth development; families and community development and leadership. This individual will also gain knowledge of Extension objectives, policies and procedures which will be helpful in meeting the qualifications required for Extension agent positions in the state. The position will work in concert with other Extension staff in delivering various aspects of the county Extension program. This position will be mentored by various Extension Agents and Specialists as training needs are identified. Evaluation of the position will be through faculty review system.

This position is to prepare him/her for assignment in a highly responsible Extension Agent position within the temporary assignment period. The incumbent must receive their master's degree in the allotted time to obtain a full time placement as an Extension Agent. This position includes, but is not limited to, the following responsibilities:

• Work closely with citizens, advisory and other groups and local, state and federal agencies in determining program needs and direction.
• Assume responsibility for planning, coordination, implementation and evaluation of County's 4-H program involving youth and leaders to ensure an active and growing program.
• Seek to offer new opportunities for youth in the areas of agriculture and natural resources, STEM, etc.
• Provide leadership and program assistance with other activities as assigned.
• Assure compliance with civil rights and affirmative action policies including reaching out to underserved and underrepresented audiences.
• Assist Extension Service staff and volunteers in delivering various aspects of the overall extension program. This includes work in agriculture and natural resource and youth development programming, as well as collaborating with others in areas of family and community development/leadership program areas.
• Conduct needs assessments and issues identification processes that result in programs based on the needs of county citizens.
• Cooperate and collaborate with local, county and state agencies and organizations to enhance community and agriculture leadership.
• Build partnerships and collaborate with local organizations, governmental units, and businesses to address issues that affect people throughout their lifespan.
• Assure compliance with equal opportunity policies.
• Participate in professional development experiences offered by WVU Extension Service and other entities as appropriate.
• Serve as the county program coordinator.
• Work with County Extension program to develop and implement a plan of work based on locally identified needs that will lead to improved quality of living for youth and adults.
• Develop and lead a community-based 4-H programming via a mix of methods including project, special interest, afterschool and community clubs, and project groups.
• Recruit, develop and train youth and adults as leaders to assist with the implementation of the 4-H program.
• Assist with ensuring all volunteer vetting processes are implemented within the 4-H Youth Development program area.
• Partner with other groups/agencies in the county such as Board of Education, FFA, county park, or other youth-serving agencies in the county to provide youth programs.
• Build collaborations with other agencies and organizations to solve community problems and multiply effectiveness.
• Perform other duties assigned in support of Extension programming.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:
• Bachelor's degree required. Additional experience related to the position responsibilities and the academic capacity to successfully enroll and be accepted in a relevant graduate program and be completed within 48 months of employment. Evidence of recent coursework, professional development or work experience related to this position.
• Skills that demonstrate knowledge and expertise in an Extension education discipline, and the understanding necessary to communicate the knowledge and application to other disciplines.
• Program development and educational design skills to assess needs and issues; and develop, deliver and evaluate comprehensive learning experiences that help diverse youth and adult audiences enhance their lives and communities.
• Information and technology skills necessary to reach and teach diverse audiences; work and communicate effectively; manage time and resources; and enhance one's ability to find, evaluate and disseminate information.
• Communication skills in listening, developing and conveying a clear, concise message appropriate for the audience and for working effectively with others, including working with the news media.
• Organizational management skills including the ability to conduct oneself professionally, be self-directed in the work environment, work flexible and extended hours, be comfortable with extensive travel, and manage time and resources to efficiently accomplish the duties of the position.
• Familiarity with various ethnic and socioeconomic audiences, an interest and ability to work with people of diverse backgrounds, and a commitment to the principles of diversity.
• Personal vehicle and a valid driver's license.

Preferred Qualifications:
• Evidence of recent work experience in a field related to the position responsibilities.
• Knowledge of Cooperative Extension and the land-grant university system.
• Knowledge of and appreciation for rural and agricultural communities.
• Experience working with volunteer groups
• Knowledge of youth development programs.

Special Requirements:
• Ability to pass a criminal background check
• Ability to meet travel demands of position (occasional overnight stays), such as 4-H youth camps, conferences, professional development session/trainings.
• Willingness to work flexible work hours including some nights and weekends.
• Ability to lift and carry materials needed to conduct trainings and perform duties of the position.
• Research and write regular topical articles for newspapers, newsletters, and websites in collaboration with WVUES Communications.

Evaluation:
• Incumbent with work with supervisor, mentoring agents and program directors to develop Faculty Assignment Document to meet annual program needs. The Agent-In-Training will be evaluated by county contact and program director.

West Virginia University is proud to be an Equal Opportunity employer and is the recipient of an NSF ADVANCE award for gender equity. The University values diversity among its faculty, staff, and students, and invites applications from all qualified applicants regardless of race, ethnicity, color, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, nationality, genetics, disability, or Veteran status.