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North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University · 2 months ago

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

Greensboro, NC

Full-time

Hybrid

Mid, Senior Level

5+ years exp

North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University is a public, land-grant, doctoral research institution. The Area Specialized Agent will work closely with small farmers and Extension Agents to develop educational programs and applied research focused on enhancing the profitability and sustainability of small farms in North Carolina.

EducationHigher EducationUniversities

Diversity & Inclusion

Responsibilities

Assisting farmers in identifying and accessing new market opportunities, both locally and regionally, to increase the profitability and sustainability of their operations

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

Offering guidance on business planning, financial management, and risk mitigation, tailored to the unique needs of small-scale farmers

Facilitating collaborations between farmers, local businesses, and community organizations to create synergistic opportunities and strengthen the local agribusiness network

Conducting workshops, seminars, and field days focused on agribusiness and marketing, ensuring that farmers have access to the latest knowledge and best practices

Qualification

Agricultural educationApplied researchAg-business marketingDigital marketingBusiness planningFinancial managementGrant writingNetworkingPublic relationsComputer literacyLeadershipCommunicationInterpersonal skills

Required

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

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