Extension Agent

Penn State College of Education

. Serve as Penn State Extension's county-level resource during agricultural emergencies and emerging animal or plant health issues .

Posted 10/23/2026full-timePennsylvania • United StatesMid-LevelSenior💰 $44,628 - $64,668 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates expertise in agricultural education, biosecurity practices, and community outreach while effectively collaborating with producers and partner agencies. Proficient in delivering educational programs and providing technical assistance to address agricultural challenges and promote sustainability.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Bachelor's Degree in Agricultural ScienceKnowledge of Biosecurity PracticesExperience with Agricultural Production SystemsExcellent Communication SkillsStrong Organizational Skills

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Agricultural Technical AssistanceFarm Biosecurity PlanningNutrient ManagementProduction Challenges SupportAnalytical and Diagnostic Laboratory InterpretationEducational Program DeliveryEvent CoordinationEmerging Technologies KnowledgeRegulatory Requirements UnderstandingCommunity Outreach

Soft Skills

Interpersonal SkillsTime ManagementProblem-Solving SkillsRelationship BuildingCollaborative Teamwork

Tools & Technologies

Virtual Learning PlatformsCommunication Technology

Certifications & Qualifications

Valid Driver's License

Industry Keywords

Agricultural EmergenciesHighly Pathogenic Avian InfluenzaCommodity OrganizationsConservation PartnersExtension ProgramsAgribusiness RelationshipsCommunity LeadersElected OfficialsAgricultural EducationSustainability Practices

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Serve as Penn State Extension's county-level resource during agricultural emergencies and emerging animal or plant health issues
Support responses to agricultural threats, including Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza and other biosecurity concerns
Assist producers with farm biosecurity plans and best management practices
Collaborate with producers, veterinarians, commodity organizations, conservation partners, and state and federal agencies
Provide general agricultural technical assistance and on-farm consultations
Respond to client questions with science-based recommendations, educational resources, referrals, and connections to Extension expertise
Assist producers with production challenges, profitability, sustainability, emerging technologies, and regulatory requirements
Assist with agricultural analytical and diagnostic laboratory sample submission and result interpretation
Plan, coordinate, and deliver agricultural education programs through in-person, virtual, and hybrid formats
Organize and support workshops, field days, demonstrations, producer meetings, clinics, tours, fairs, and other events
Coordinate local delivery of statewide Extension initiatives
Promote Extension programs and services through community outreach and partnerships
Represent Penn State Extension within the assigned county
Develop relationships with producers, agribusinesses, commodity organizations, conservation districts, community leaders, elected officials, and partner agencies
Identify emerging agricultural issues and communicate local needs to Extension leadership and statewide teams
Participate in onboarding, technical training, professional development, and statewide collaborative initiatives
Work with Extension Educators, faculty, specialists, and county staff to strengthen program delivery and community impact
Maintain current knowledge of agricultural issues, educational methods, and Extension resources

Requirements

What you’ll need

Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution
No prior relevant work experience required
Previous relevant work experience accepted in lieu of education
Valid driver's license
Ability to travel extensively throughout the assigned county and occasionally statewide
Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends
Bachelor's degree in Animal Science, Agricultural Science, Plant Science, Agronomy, Agricultural Education, or a closely related field preferred
Experience with livestock, crop, or diversified agricultural production systems preferred
Knowledge of agricultural production practices, biosecurity, nutrient management, farm management, or related subject areas preferred
Ability to build relationships and work effectively with agricultural producers, community organizations, and partner agencies preferred
Excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills preferred
Strong organizational, time management, and problem-solving skills preferred
Ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a collaborative statewide team preferred
Experience using technology to support communication, educational programming, and virtual learning preferred
Successful completion of background checks and motor vehicle records check
Must be authorized to work in the U.S.; Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa

Benefits

Comp & perks

Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
Robust retirement plans
Paid holidays, vacation, and sick time
75% tuition discount for employees and eligible spouses and children