Program Assistant (Part-Time) - WVU Extension Service

The WVU Extension Service (WVUES) at West Virginia University is currently accepting applications for a 4-H Club Program Assistant.

About the Opportunity

This role is pivotal in developing, coordinating, and supporting 4-H Clubs and educational opportunities throughout the community. The employee is also responsible for assisting the West Virginia University Extension Agent in Brooke County with the coordination and management of the 4-H youth development program within the county, specifically related to 4-H Clubs. As an employee of WVU Extension working the Brooke County Office, this full-time role requires flexibility for occasional weekend, evening, and overnight hours. This position will be for 30 hours a week.

We strongly believe in work-life balance and keeping time for things we love outside our work. WVU offers generous benefits at a pro-rated basis, including:

• Paid holidays (staff holiday calendar)
• Annual leave (vacation) days per year
• Sick days per year (for when you're ill, for when you need time to care for sick family, for your own, or your family's, regularly scheduled medical appointments. Who is family for the purpose of this leave? A lot of people in your life including immediate relatives and in-laws as well as others considered to be members of your household living under the same roof)
• WVU offers a range of health insurance and other benefits (this position is a benefits-eligible, staff position)
• 401(a) retirement savings with 6% employee contribution match, eligibility to continue health insurance, and other retiree perks. Looking for more retirement benefits information? Check out retirement health insurance benefits, retirement income, and FAQ's.
• Wellness programs

What You'll Do

• Implement policies according to West Virginia University and West Virginia University Extension.
• Assist the Agent with growing the 4-H program through multiple delivery methods and audiences.
• Liaison with club leaders and volunteers to assure appropriate and timely completion of annual materials for enrollment and chartering.
• Recruit and promote 4-H club membership and participation.
• Assist the agent with the design and development of 4-H events and activities to meet local needs.
• Assist with county contests including poster, photo, writing, and presentation contests, etc. Includes tasks such as recruiting volunteers, judges, participants, leaders and organizing details.
• Assist with the evaluation and data keeping at each event/activity.
• Promote and market 4-H youth development activities.
• Attend 4-H Camp as program support as directed by Extension Agent.
• Assist with the management of 4-H exhibits, judging, awards, and youth activities during Brooke County Fair.
• Recruit, screen, orient, support and train local 4-H volunteers.
• Present educational programs under the guidance of the Extension Agent at a variety of venues including schools, community venues, after-school programs, day camps, and other venues as needed.
• As instructed by Extension Agent, plan, attend, and/or conduct scheduled meetings monthly for groups such as 4-H Leaders Association, 4-H Teen Leaders, etc.
• Serve as a team member of the county extension program by participating in extension service committee meetings, office staff meetings, filing proper reports, and offering creative suggestions for program improvement.
• Stay in compliance with all University vetting processes, policies and best management practices as they relate to the recruitment, management, and training of volunteers and leaders who support Extension programming.
• Assure compliance with civil rights and affirmative action policies including reaching out to underserved and underrepresented audiences.
• Foster effective communications and develop strong partnerships with Extension faculty/staff, county officials, and local schools.
• In collaboration with the supervisor, serve as a part of the team to provide leadership and support to engage stakeholders through various community groups and organizations.
• Expected to participate in job-related trainings, certifications, and professional development as directed by supervising agent.
• Works flexible schedule to ensure office is open during regular hours, times of high activity, staff vacations, and/or break periods.

• Perform other duties as assigned in support of programming and the safe and efficient operation of the Brooke County Extension Office.

  Work Hours: 30 Hours Per Week

  Pay Grade: 13

• Associate degree is a related field
• A minimum of one (1) year of experience in coordinating educational programming and educational activities, as well as experience in working with youth and adults are a plus.
• Knowledge and experience with Microsoft Word and Excel
• Candidates must possess a high degree of written and/or verbal communication skills in dealing with other employees, clients, and the public.

• Other requirements include a valid driver's license; provides own transportation to complete assigned duties (mileage reimbursement provided); ability to pass a required criminal background check; ability to successfully attain WVU policy certifications; and ability to work overnight events such as 4-H camp during the summer.

  Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to engage effectively with various stakeholders.
• Self-motivated and able to work without direction
• Skills in problem solving and dealing with a variety of interests and personalities.
• Skills in public speaking and presenting to various age groups ranging from youth to older adults.
• Practical knowledge and experience in current youth development principles and techniques.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions
• Ability to work a flexible schedule with some nights and weekends including travel and overnight stays.
• Ability to pass background checks, maintain Title IX and youth protection training certifications, as well as follow other security protocols designated by WVU.
• Ability to learn the policies and procedures of West Virginia University, WVU Extension Service, WVUES Programs, WV Ethics Commission, government travel regulations, and some USDA regulations.

• This position does require discretion and STRICT CONFIDENTIALITY.

• Valid driver's license

West Virginia University is a place of purpose and community. We take pride in our profound impact on the state of West Virginia and are committed to the personal and professional growth of our employees.

From the groundbreaking R1 research at our flagship campus in Morgantown to the career-oriented programs at WVU Potomac State in Keyser, and the technology-intensive programs at WVU Tech in Beckley, the contributions of WVU employees resonate across the state, touching lives and shaping futures.

At WVU, you will discover a supportive community that champions work-life balance and fosters a collaborative atmosphere. Our core values - service, curiosity, respect, accountability and appreciation - unite us as Mountaineers.

Join us at West Virginia University, where your work will make a lasting impact. To learn more about WVU, visit wvu.edu.

West Virginia University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We invite all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or Veteran status.