4-H PROGRAM ASSISTANT

Description

The purpose of this position is to assist in developing and implementing information and education services in agriculture and natural resources, consumer and family science, and 4-H youth programs, as assigned.

Examples of Duties

• Assists in developing informational and educational programming for assigned area; research, develops and recommends content for programming; assists in community needs assessments; gathers and reserves supplies/equipment as needed; and creates handouts and informational supplements, flyers, and brochures.
• Assists in implementing informational and educational programming for assigned area; teaches evidence-based curriculums; ensures lessons and learning modules are age- and learning-level appropriate; gathers supplies and equipment; provides skill demonstrations; and supplements academic classroom activities, as needed.
• Provides customer service to extension patrons and the public; receives and responds to questions and requests for information; provides assistance and information related to extension programs, services, materials, or other issues in assigned area; research problems and initiates problem resolution; and enrolls public for programs, services, and materials.
• Makes presentations for assigned area; communicates with community, groups, interested citizens, clubs, civic organizations, schools, and related groups interested in education and development in assigned area; coordinates speakers and presentations; and conducts activities and demonstrations.
• Leads and supervises participants at various events and clubs, including conferences, summer camps, classes, competitions, etc.; coordinates monthly meetings; arranges and organizes physical space; recruits’ participants; judges’ competitions, as needed; and assists with various awards ceremonies, as needed.
• Receives and processes soil, plant, and water samples; conducts testing of samples for PH, fertility, minerals, bacteria, disease, nutritional value, nematodes, insects, etc.; identifies problems or classifications; provides results to client via email, phone, and/or mail; and makes recommendations to correct or mediate problems.
• Coordinates volunteers in area of assignment; recruits and trains volunteers; researches and administers continuing educational classes for same; coordinates work assignments and project activities; serves as a liaison to volunteers and community and governmental organizations; and assists with various fundraising projects.
• Assists in public relations and communication for the extension services in assigned area; creates and/or updates content on website and social media; creates and distributes flyers, schedules, calendars, brochures, emails, and other promotional materials; maintains and updates email distribution lists; and attends public events/meetings.
• Processes a variety of documentation associated with department/division operations, within designated timeframes and per established procedures; receives and reviews various documentation; reviews, completes, processes, forwards, or retains as appropriate; prepares or completes various forms, reports, correspondence, and other documentation; compiles data for further processing or for use in preparation of department reports; and maintains computerized and/or hardcopy records.
• Operates a personal computer to enter, retrieve, review, or modify data, utilizing word processing, spreadsheet, database, presentation, Internet, e-mail, or other software; and operates general office or other equipment as necessary to complete essential functions.
• Communicates with supervisor, other County employees, the public, outside agencies, and other individuals as needed to coordinate work activities, review status of work, exchange information, or resolve problems.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

Education and Experience:
Requires a High School diploma or equivalent and one (1) year of related experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience. Associate degree preferred.

Licenses or Certifications:
Must possess and maintain a valid Georgia driver’s license. Depending on the area of assignment, may be required to possess and maintain Master Gardener certification or other certifications relevant to the area of assignment.

Special Requirements:
None.

Knowledge, Skill, Abilities/ Supplemental Information

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Knowledge of local government operations, 4-H and extension related programs, policies and plans, and modern office practices and procedures.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and other similar programs.
• Skill in the use of computers and software applications related to the essential functions of the job.
• Skill in effective communication, both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to meet and deal with employees and the public in an effective and courteous manner.
• Ability to get along with others, and work effectively with the public and co-workers.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evening meetings.
• Ability to multi-task and work within deadlines.
• Ability to deal with confidential and sensitive matters.
• Ability to work with and process payments for accounts within the budget and department.
• Ability to use computers for data entry, word processing, and accounting purposes.
• Ability to operate a copying machine.