Agriculture Extension Agent Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In an era where sustainable and efficient farming practices are paramount, the role of Agriculture Extension Agents is increasingly vital.

As the world’s population continues to grow, so does the demand for knowledgeable individuals who can guide, educate, and implement advanced agricultural methods.

But what does an Agriculture Extension Agent actually do?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker wanting to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager defining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply interested in the nuances of agricultural extension work,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Agriculture Extension Agent job description template, created for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s delve into the details.

Agriculture Extension Agent Duties and Responsibilities

Agriculture Extension Agents work as a bridge between agricultural research, farmers, and the community.

They use their knowledge of agricultural science and technology to assist farmers in making informed decisions to improve their livelihoods.

The duties and responsibilities of Agriculture Extension Agents include:

• Provide information to farmers on the latest agricultural research and technological advancements
• Conduct on-site visits to farms to assess the conditions and provide tailored advice
• Organize and lead workshops, seminars, and other educational programs to train farmers in the use of new techniques and technologies
• Assist farmers in developing business plans and strategies to improve productivity and profitability
• Work with agricultural researchers to understand and disseminate findings
• Help in the implementation of sustainable farming practices
• Monitor and report on changes in agricultural conditions, such as disease outbreaks or pest infestations
• Develop community projects that promote agricultural awareness and education
• Maintain records of services provided and the progress of farmers
• Coordinate with government agencies, non-profit organizations, and other stakeholders in the agricultural sector

 

Agriculture Extension Agent Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Agriculture Extension Agent to provide assistance and knowledge to our local farming community.

The Agriculture Extension Agent’s responsibilities include conducting research and demonstrations in the field of agriculture, providing educational programs and support to farmers, and developing solutions to local agricultural issues.

The ideal candidate should have a deep understanding of agricultural practices, excellent communication skills, and a passion for rural community development.

Ultimately, the Agriculture Extension Agent serves as the crucial link between our organization and the local farming community.

 

Responsibilities

• Developing, conducting, and participating in educational programs that meet the needs of the local farming community.
• Providing assistance and advice to farmers on issues such as crop rotation, planting schedules, soil preparation, and pest control.
• Conducting field visits to assess the condition of crops and livestock, and to provide advice on best practices.
• Collaborating with researchers and specialists to conduct research and demonstrations on farming practices and techniques.
• Developing and maintaining relationships with local farmers, agribusinesses, and community organizations.
• Monitoring and reporting on local agricultural developments and trends.
• Documenting and maintaining records of services provided and the effects of advice given.

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as an agriculture extension agent or similar role in the agricultural sector.
• Knowledge of local farming practices and issues.
• Ability to conduct research and provide practical solutions.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal and presentation skills.
• BSc degree in Agriculture, Environmental Science, or a related field.
• Willingness to travel to different locations within the community.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Agriculture Extension Agent
• Work Environment: Outdoors, in agricultural settings. Some office work may be required for research and reporting tasks.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Agriculture Extension Services Director.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $40,000 minimum to $60,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Agriculture Extension Agent Do?

Agriculture Extension Agents primarily work for agricultural outreach organizations, cooperative extensions, or government agencies.

They are responsible for acting as a bridge between research institutions and farmers.

Their main job is to provide farmers with the latest research-based information about farming practices and technologies that can increase productivity and reduce environmental impact.

This information might be about new crop varieties, better soil management methods, integrated pest management strategies, or new technologies such as precision agriculture.

Agriculture Extension Agents often conduct on-farm visits to give farmers personalized advice tailored to their specific conditions and challenges.

They might also organize workshops, field days, and other educational events to share information with larger groups of farmers.

Furthermore, they collaborate closely with researchers to understand the latest findings and identify areas where more research is needed.

They also play a crucial role in relaying feedback from farmers back to researchers.

In addition to providing information, Agriculture Extension Agents often play a role in rural development efforts.

They may help farmers to form cooperatives, connect with markets, or access government programs and subsidies.

Agriculture Extension Agents need to have a deep understanding of agriculture, along with excellent communication and interpersonal skills, to succeed in their role.

They must also stay up-to-date with the latest research and trends in the field of agriculture.

 

Agriculture Extension Agent Qualifications and Skills

An Agriculture Extension Agent should possess a unique mix of skills and qualifications that blend agricultural knowledge with communication and management abilities, such as:

• Strong knowledge of agricultural practices, including crop management, animal husbandry, and farm equipment operation.
• Excellent communication skills to effectively deliver information and advice to farmers and agricultural businesses. This includes both verbal and written communication.
• Interpersonal skills to build and maintain relationships with farmers, farm organizations, and other stakeholders in the agricultural community.
• Problem-solving skills to help farmers troubleshoot issues they may encounter in their operations, from pests and diseases to machinery malfunctions.
• Knowledge of current agricultural technologies, such as GPS and remote sensing, and their application in improving farm productivity.
• Ability to conduct educational programs and workshops to help farmers learn new farming techniques and technologies.
• Organizational skills to manage multiple projects and tasks simultaneously.
• Customer service skills to address inquiries and concerns of farmers in a timely and respectful manner.
• Understanding of environmental and sustainability issues related to farming, and how to promote sustainable agricultural practices.

 

Agriculture Extension Agent Experience Requirements

Agriculture Extension Agents typically require a Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture, Environmental Science, or a related field, accompanied by relevant work experience in farming, ranching, or agricultural consultation.

Entry-level Agriculture Extension Agents may have 1 to 2 years of experience, usually gained through internships or part-time roles in farming, ranching or agricultural consultation.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often have had hands-on experience with farm management, agricultural research or rural development projects.

These professionals may have developed their skills in pest management, crop rotation, irrigation, or soil conservation.

Those with more than 5 years of experience usually have a deep understanding of local farming practices, agricultural law, and often have experience in teaching or mentoring roles.

They may have led agricultural workshops, given public presentations, or worked as consultants with local farmers.

For high-level positions, Agriculture Extension Agents may be expected to have a Master’s degree in agriculture or a related field and more than 7 years of experience in the agriculture industry.

These individuals may have held leadership roles, like managing agricultural programs or leading teams of extension agents.

 

Agriculture Extension Agent Education and Training Requirements

Agriculture Extension Agents usually hold a bachelor’s degree in agriculture, agricultural science, or a related field.

Their coursework typically includes studies in crop science, animal science, soil science, and agricultural economics.

Additionally, some positions may require a master’s degree in agriculture, particularly for those interested in research, administration, or specialized technical advising.

State certification for Agriculture Extension Agents is often required, the criteria for which generally includes having a relevant degree, several years of experience in the field and passing a state examination.

Many Agriculture Extension Agents also pursue ongoing education to stay updated with the latest advancements and trends in agriculture.

This might involve attending workshops, seminars, or short courses relevant to their work.

Lastly, practical experience, such as internships or work on a farm, is highly beneficial as it provides hands-on understanding of farming practices and issues.

 

Agriculture Extension Agent Salary Expectations

The average wage for an Agriculture Extension Agent is $51,280 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings may vary based on experience, location, and the agency or organization they work for.

 

Agriculture Extension Agent Job Description FAQs

What qualifications are required to become an Agriculture Extension Agent?

Typically, an Agriculture Extension Agent needs to have a bachelor’s degree in agriculture, animal science, horticulture, or a related field.

Some positions may require a master’s degree or equivalent experience.

Additionally, most states require certification or licensure, which typically involves passing an examination.

 

What is the primary role of an Agriculture Extension Agent?

The primary role of an Agriculture Extension Agent is to provide education and assistance to farmers, growers, and the community about the latest agricultural procedures, techniques, and research.

This can involve everything from crop management to pest control, market trends, and sustainable practices.

 

What skills should an Agriculture Extension Agent have?

An Agriculture Extension Agent should have excellent communication skills as they will be teaching and advising farmers and growers.

They should have a comprehensive understanding of farming practices and principles, and be able to apply this knowledge in a practical, understandable way.

Problem-solving skills are also crucial as they will often be asked to diagnose and provide solutions for various agricultural issues.

 

What should you look for in an Agriculture Extension Agent resume?

An ideal resume of an Agriculture Extension Agent should show a strong background in agricultural science, including education and work experience.

It’s beneficial if they have experience in teaching or in a consultative role.

Additionally, look for skills such as problem-solving, communication, and a strong understanding of current agricultural practices and research.

Certifications or licenses related to agriculture may also be an asset.

 

What qualities make a good Agriculture Extension Agent?

A good Agriculture Extension Agent is passionate about agriculture and the community they serve.

They are knowledgeable about the latest agricultural research and trends, and are capable of conveying this information in an easy-to-understand manner.

They should be approachable, patient, and have excellent problem-solving skills.

Furthermore, they should have a genuine desire to help improve farming practices and agricultural sustainability.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve dug beneath the surface to uncover the real essence of being an agriculture extension agent.

And guess what?

It’s not just about farming.

It’s about nurturing the roots of our future food security, one crop at a time.

With our handy agriculture extension agent job description template and real-life examples, you’re ready to sow the seeds for your career growth.

But why limit your growth to the surface?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next step to precision-crafted job postings or honing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every seed sown is a part of the larger harvest.

Let’s cultivate that future. Together.

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