Associate Extension Agent, Agriculture & Natural Resources - Arlington/Alexandria

Job Description

Arlington and Alexandria, part of the dynamic Washington, D.C. metro area, are vibrant urban communities with strong commitments to sustainability, environmental stewardship, and local food systems. Though densely populated, the region features a growing network of community gardens, urban farms, and natural resource initiatives that promote green living and equitable food access.

The Agriculture and Natural Resources (ANR) Extension Agent will serve as a key community educator, connector, and resource for sustainable urban agriculture and natural resources management. The agent delivers research-based educational programs and technical support to urban growers, residents, local officials, and nonprofit partners to promote sustainable practices and community resilience.

Key Responsibilities:
● Develop and deliver educational programs on topics including urban agriculture, composting, sustainable landscaping, pollinator health, climate-smart gardening, soil and water conservation, and pest management.
● Serve as the VCE advisor to the Potomac Watershed Roundtable, Arlington Regional Master Naturalists Chapter, and other agriculture- and natural-resource-related volunteer groups.
● Provide leadership and support to volunteers and affiliated community science efforts related to conservation, environmental monitoring, and habitat restoration.
● Collaborate with stakeholders including community gardens, farmers’ markets, local governments, nonprofits, and civic groups to identify emerging issues and co-develop solutions.
● Conduct site visits and assessments related to soil health, urban growing systems, pest and disease issues, and stormwater practices.
● Support localities with emergency response planning and conduct agricultural or environmental damage assessments in response to severe weather or disasters.
● Administer private pesticide applicator training and testing; lead annual recertification workshops.
● Support rural and urban agriculture economic development initiatives in partnership with VCE specialists and local planning departments.
● Engage with and support the following programs and partners: Master Gardener Volunteers; Master Food Volunteers; 4-H Staff & Volunteers; Local Sustainability Offices and Environmental Advisory Groups; Arlington and Alexandria Farmers’ Markets; Urban forest, tree canopy, and native plant initiatives.

A master's degree and promotion to Extension Agent are required no later than the sixth year of employment. Demonstrated ability to recruit, select, train and manage volunteers; demonstrated ability to lead groups, plan, implement, facilitate, teach and evaluate educational information programs; knowledge and use of computer technology in educational programming and management and presentation skills; excellent communication skills and the ability to work effectively with broad audiences; ability to work with minimal supervision in an unstructured setting. Extension agents demonstrate flexibility, adaptability; a team-oriented mindset, yet can work independently, and a strong desire to help clients succeed. Extension Agents recognize the importance of all communities and broad reach in the development and delivery of Extension programs, actively working to increase program participation of all people. Extension Agents are responsible for VCE's civil rights policies and equal opportunity compliance. The person in the position is expected to travel to provide in-person leadership and to build community partnerships with few exceptions for telework.

Virginia Tech is unable to sponsor applicants for work visas for this vacancy.

Required Qualifications

● A minimum of a bachelor's degree (BA or BS) in agriculture, horticulture, environmental science, natural resources, or a related field.
● Experience leading volunteer groups, organizing educational programming, and conducting outreach in diverse communities.
● Strong written, verbal, and digital communication skills.
● Familiarity with urban environmental issues, small-scale agriculture, or community-based conservation.
● Ability to work independently in a flexible, community-facing role.

Preferred Qualifications

● Master’s degree in a related field.
● Experience in urban or suburban agriculture, cooperative extension, sustainability, or community engagement.
● Familiarity with Arlington/Alexandria community networks and regional environmental planning efforts.

Overtime Status

Exempt: Not eligible for overtime

Appointment Type

Regular

Salary Information

$45,000 - $65,000

Hours per week

Varies

Review Date

September 30, 2025