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

Use this summary to align your resume positioning with the role.

Demonstrates expertise in agricultural emergency response, biosecurity practices, and technical assistance for producers. Capable of delivering educational programs and building relationships with diverse stakeholders in the agricultural community.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Agricultural Emergency ResponseBiosecurity PracticesTechnical AssistanceEducational Program DeliveryRelationship Building

ATS Keywords

Tailor your resume

Applicant Tracking System Keywords

Tip: use these terms in your resume and cover letter to boost ATS matches.

Hard Skills

Agricultural Production PracticesNutrient ManagementFarm ManagementAnalytical Laboratory Sample SubmissionResult Interpretation

Soft Skills

Interpersonal CommunicationOrganizational SkillsTime ManagementProblem-SolvingCollaboration

Tools & Technologies

Virtual Learning PlatformsCommunication Technology

Certifications & Qualifications

Valid Driver's License

Industry Keywords

Agricultural EducationBiosecurityEmerging Agricultural IssuesCommunity OutreachAgribusiness

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 in in-person, virtual, and hybrid formats
Organize workshops, field days, demonstrations, producer meetings, clinics, tours, fairs, and other events
Coordinate local delivery of statewide Extension initiatives
Promote Extension programs through community outreach and partnerships
Represent Penn State Extension within the assigned county
Build 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

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
Successful completion of background checks
Successful completion of a 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
Preferred: Bachelor's degree in Animal Science, Agricultural Science, Plant Science, Agronomy, Agricultural Education, or 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 subjects
Preferred: Experience building relationships 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 and collaboratively
Preferred: Experience using technology for communication, educational programming, and virtual learning

Benefits

Comp & perks

Comprehensive medical coverage
Dental coverage
Vision coverage
Robust retirement plans
Paid holidays
Vacation time
Sick time
75% tuition discount for employees and eligible spouses and children
Professional development
Hybrid work arrangement, subject to approval