Extension Agent II, 4-H Youth Development (New Castle County)

PAY GRADE: 30E

CONTEXT OF THE JOB:

Cooperative Extension is an informal, educational, nationwide network that combines the expertise and resources of federal, state, and local governments to improve people’s lives. For a century, University of Delaware Cooperative Extension has made a difference in the First State by providing quality educational programming to individuals and communities, based on university research and aimed at meeting the expressed needs of our constituents. The outreach arm of USDA and the American land-grant university system, Cooperative Extension takes the University to the people with programming that includes food safety; nutrition, diet, and health; 4-H and youth development; sustainable agriculture; home gardening; financial and resource management; leadership and volunteer development; and much more.

Under the general direction of the New Castle County (NCC) Extension Director, the Extension Agent manages programs within the NCC 4-H program area. . The Extension Agent will provide direct educational programming, to include 4-H Junior Council; Camp Counselors Training; as well as the NCC 4-H Embryology in the Classroom Program.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Provide program planning, implementation, promotion, as well as collect evaluation data from programs and trainings based on county initiatives.
• Collaborate with New Castle County Council Community Services Department to administer programs to address and resolve issues affecting youth in priority areas in New Castle County. Meet with New Castle County government staff regularly to monitor programs and respond to new requests.
• Manage New Castle County 4-H Embryology in the Classroom program.
• Manage budgets as required. Seek funds to enhance and maintain the work of this position. Maintain accurate records and documentation regarding program budgets, attendance, and supplies.
• Identify, recruit, manage and support volunteers. Support the establishment of new volunteers, groups and/or programs.
• Hire and train miscellaneous wage staff for the county funded programs including afterschool and embryology programs. Conduct county funded 4-H afterschool and staff training and supervision of staff.
• Engage with the 4-H community via workshops, trainings, competitive events, one on one meetings, and monthly group meetings both personally and via technology; develop new educational programs and trainings that address the priority needs of county youth.
• Develop, prepare, and distribute program information and promotional materials for Extension programs. Use social media, newsletters, website articles and other avenues to promote the program. Communicate with families in afterschool clubs and community club programs.
• Work directly with Teen Junior Council , Day Camp Counselors, Jr. Leaders and members of the county Extension advisory committees and 4-H Program advisory committees, community leaders, public officials, and representatives to determine needs and program direction.
• Serve on county and state Extension committees and liaison with community leaders and partners in the implementation of program initiatives.
• Recommend new policy and program initiatives or changes to enhance current programs.
• Responsible for implementation of Program Plan as well as reporting impacts within Extension’s Planning and Reporting System (PEARS). Develop a year end narrative for the county report.
• Maintain and improve professional competence through formal and non-formal courses and • conferences as well as other professional development opportunities.
• Understand and ensure compliance with UD/CANR/Cooperative Extension policies and procedures. Follow affirmative action and equal opportunity guidelines to ensure equal access to Extension programs.
• Responsible for complying with university policies, procedures, and best practices regarding protecting data and following UD data governance rules.
• Perform other job-related duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree and four years related experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience. Degree in a business, communication, youth development or family science or marketing discipline preferred.
• Knowledge of Extension and youth and/or adult education methods.
• Proficient MS Office computing skills; familiarity and experience with online communications platforms, including e-mail, web communications, social media, etc.
• Ability to recruit, train and support volunteers.
• Effective organizational, management and interpersonal skills. Effective written and verbal communication and public speaking skills. Ability to understand, develop, and monitor budgets.
• Ability to effectively present information on an individual/group basis with a specific target audience(s).

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Position requires evening and weekend work.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable means of transportation required.