About the role
Position Function
The primary responsibility of the Family, Health, and Wellness (FHW) Extension agent will be to provide leadership in the development, implementation, and evaluation of a comprehensive education program focused on FHW, which includes early childhood education, family financial management, health, food safety, and nutrition. Secondary responsibilities will include a smaller percentage of time working in the areas of Community Resource Development (CRD) and 4-H Youth Development. Knowledge of FHW program areas is required. As part of a statewide team, the FHW Extension agent will collaborate to establish programming priorities and effective delivery methods. Strong oral and written communication skills, along with the ability to work effectively as a team member, are essential for success in this role.
Salary Grade: 14
Please see Staff Compensation Structure or Skilled Crafts and Service Maintenance Compensation Schedule for salary ranges. For salary grade UC, these positions are "Unclassified" and salary ranges are determined by the hiring department.
Department Profile
This position is located in Decatur, Mississippi at the MSU Extension Newton County Office.
Area of Specialization
Family, Health, and Wellness (FHW)/ 4-H Youth Development
Anticipated Appointment Date
November 1, 2026.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
The FHW Extension agent will identify and organize information on clientele needs, assessing the relevance, significance, and timeliness of FHW needs in consultation with the County Extension Coordinator (CEC). In collaboration with appropriate statewide priority program groups and the CEC, the agent will develop an annual plan of work with measurable goals that effectively address identified needs. This will include determining priorities, allocating effort, and scheduling to ensure the successful achievement of program goals. The agent will implement the FHW program plan and evaluate its content, methods, and activities to assess effectiveness and impact, submitting program information through Digital Measures.
The Extension agent will support the CEC and fellow Extension agents primarily in FHW to ensure programming aligns with local needs and contributes to county data reporting, including accountability reports for stakeholders. The agent will also demonstrate awareness of key social, economic, and public issues, fostering strong relationships with educational, regulatory, and service organizations whose missions align with Extension's goals. Active participation in local and state professional and civic organizations is expected. Additionally, the agent will contribute to CRD and 4-H efforts in the assigned area.
The Extension agent will play an active role in 4-H programming and supporting local 4-H clubs in Newton County, with a focus on increasing youth participation and enhancing the overall quality and impact of 4-H activities. The Extension agent will identify, recruit, and train local 4-H volunteer leaders to enable them to effectively perform their duties while serving on committees, clubs, and/or organizations. The Extension agent will follow all system and agency guidelines to ensure the safety of minors in camps and youth programs, working collaboratively to provide a safe and supportive environment for all participants.
Minimum Qualifications
Applicants must have an earned bachelor's degree in Family and Consumer Science or a field of study determined by Extension Administration to be closely related, from an accredited institution of higher learning. Applicant must maintain a valid driver's license.
You will be expected to establish and maintain your permanent residence in Newton County or a closely adjacent Mississippi county within six (6) months of employment unless otherwise approved by the Extension Director and the Newton County Board of Supervisors.
And offer of employment is contingent upon successful completion of a criminal background screen. Rank and salary will be commensurate with level of qualification.
Preferred Qualifications
Master of Science Degree.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
The Extension agent must have a working knowledge of FHW program areas and be responsible for creating and utilizing innovative delivery methods, playing a key role in planning, engaging with partners and audiences, implementing programs, and evaluating their outcomes and impact. In addition to designing both in-person and online educational programs, the agent will also leverage mass media, web platforms, and social media to deliver educational content and promote FHW activities to individuals and families involved in the FHW programs.
Working Conditions and Physical Effort
- Work is normally performed in a typical interior/office work environment.
- No or very limited exposure to physical risk.
- Occasionally will be required to lift more than 50 pounds and stand or walk for long periods of time.
Instructions for Applying
Link to apply: http://explore.msujobs.msstate.edu/
Must complete online application; submit a cover letter, resume, three professional references, and a current unofficial transcript. Please note that any social security number included on requested transcripts should be redacted prior to submitting online and that official transcripts will be requested of finalists.
Screening Date
September 25, 2026, until filled.
Restricted Clause
Position is contingent upon continued availability of funding.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
Mississippi State University is an equal opportunity institution. Discrimination is prohibited in university employment, programs or activities based on race, color, ethnicity, sex, pregnancy, religion, national origin, disability, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, status as a U.S. veteran, or any other status to the extent protected by applicable law. Questions about equal opportunity programs or compliance should be directed to the Office of Civil Rights Compliance, 231 Famous Maroon Band Street, P.O. 6044, Mississippi State, MS 39762, (662) 325-5839.
What do I do if I need an accommodation?
In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act (ADA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation in order to apply for a position with Mississippi State University, please contact the Department of Human Resources Management at tel: (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu.
If you have any questions regarding this policy, contact the Department of Human Resources Management at (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu. Upon request, sections of this job listing are available in large print, and readers are available to assist the visually impaired.