Urban Horticulture Extension Area Agent NKY
Kentucky State University

Job Info

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TITLE: Urban Horticulture Area Agent NKY (Boone, Kenton, Campbell Counties) DEPARTMENT: Cooperative Extension ProgramREPORTS TO: Northern KY Area DirectorCLASSIFICATION: Staff-12 monthsEFFECTIVE DATE: TBDSTANDARD WORK HOURS: 37.5 hours per weekEMPLOYMENT STATUS: Full-Time EMPLOYMENT CLASSIFICATION: Exempt  JOB SUMMARY: The Area Extension Agent for Urban Horticulture Boone, Kenton, Campbell Counties) is a member of the off-campus public service staff of Kentucky State University. The Area Urban Horticulture Agent provides unbiased research-based, practical, and useful information to underserved and socially disadvantaged Kentuckians through virtual methods and face-to-face programs. The Area Urban Extension Agent for Horticulture reports to the Northern KY Area Director. This position will serve all clientele ensuring that all youth and adults have an equal opportunity to participate in Extension programs regardless of race, color, ethnic origin, national origin, creed, religion, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information, or age. ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:Deliver educational programming using a range of approaches and media, including but not limited to one-on-one meetings, workshops, field days, site visits, phone calls, email, and other virtual methods of communication.Works collaboratively with Extension specialists and associates in the piloting and implementation of horticulture-relevant programs.Works collaboratively with Extension specialists and associates in the piloting and implementation of urban Extension-relevant programs.Collaborate with 4-H Agents, school, and community leaders to establish gardening and aquaculture programs.Develop implement, and evaluate a county plan of work based on locally identified needs.Plan and conduct educational programs in horticulture; the focus will be on ornamental horticulture, backyard poultry, and urban community gardens.Develop and implement leadership programs.Serve as a conduit to additional programming and information available at Kentucky State University such as community gardening, school gardening, urban agriculture, vegetable production, vertical farming systems, aquaponics, and other related programming.Establish a community tool library.Recruit volunteers, create and utilize the expertise of advisory groups, community leaders, public officials, and representatives of intended audiences to analyze data, identify needs, and assist in developing educational programs.Develop and conduct relevant interdisciplinary programs with other staff members of KSU and the University of Kentucky based on critical issues.  KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED: 

Extensive knowledge of horticulture and new technologies used in urban settings.

Knowledge of organic and non-organic production systems.

Ability to communicate effectively, orally, and in writing.

Ability to create, compose, and edit written materials.

Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively with a wide range of constituencies in a diverse community.

Skill in the use of personal computers and related software packages.

Records maintenance skills.

Strong planning and organizational skills.

Ability to plan and teach educational programs.

Ability to use new technologies to promote programs and reach new audiences.

Ability to work well in teams.

Ability and understanding of the Land Grant mission and vision, University policies, procedures, and objectives in planning and conducting Extension programs.

Knowledge of federal and state agricultural agencies.

        SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY This position does not have supervisory responsibility.             OTHER DUTIES: Position will perform other related duties as required QUALIFICATIONS: 

Bachelor’s degree in horticulture, agriculture, agribusiness management, agricultural education, or a related field.

Masters in horticulture or agricultural-related field is preferred. One to three years of related experience in Extension is preferred. Must have own transportation.

WORKING CONDITIONS AND PHYSICAL EFFORT:  

Work involves some exposure to unusual elements, such as extreme temperatures, dirt, dust, fumes, smoke, unpleasant odors, and/or loud noises.

Requires some standing or walking.

Ability to lift 40 lbs. required.

This position requires some night meetings, weekend work, and attendance at out-of-county meetings.

A valid driver’s license and a personal vehicle for official duty travel are required. Mileage will be reimbursed at a rate established by the university.

  Internal Candidates are Encouraged to Apply  Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the United States. At this time, Kentucky State University is unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa  
 KENTUCKY STATE UNIVERSITY is an Equal Opportunity Employer The functions, qualifications, knowledge/skills, and physical requirements listed in this job description represent the essential duties of the job, which the incumbent must be able to perform either with or without reasonable accommodation. The Job Functions listed do not necessarily include all activities that the individual may perform.   

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