Extension Agent – Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) Implementation and Farm Certification

Department: Center for Food Safety & Health Position Type: Full-Time (Grant-funded for one year; continuation contingent upon performance and funding availability) Position Summary The Center for Food Safety & Health at South Carolina State University’s Public Service & Agriculture seeks a full-time, skilled, independent, proactive Extension Associate to support outreach, education, and implementation activities related to Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs), and third-party farm certification programs in South Carolina. This position will work closely with farmers, 1890 Extension specialists, regulatory partners, and industry stakeholders to promote adoption of safe agricultural practices, assist in compliance documentation, and facilitate successful GAP audits and certifications. This is an excellent opportunity to gain in depth experience in outreach and extension services. This is the one-year position with possibility to be extended to next year. This position reports to the Center Director and available immediately. Key Responsibilities • Conduct outreach and training programs to educate fruit and vegetable growers on GAP principles, FSMA (Food Safety Modernization Act) Produce Safety Rule requirements, and related certification processes. • Visit farms to assist producers with implementation of food safety plans, recordkeeping, and corrective actions required for GAP or other certification programs. • Provide one-on-one technical assistance in developing and maintaining farm food safety plans, risk assessments, and standard operating procedures (SOPs). • Support coordination and delivery of field demonstrations, workshops, and on-farm mock audits in collaboration with the Extension and research teams. • Assist in preparing reports, educational materials, factsheets, and digital content for outreach and stakeholder communication. • Maintain strong relationships with state partners including SC Department of Agriculture, Clemson Extension, and food safety auditors. • Collect and document farm data related to GAP implementation progress and certification outcomes. • Participate in regional and state-level meetings or training programs to remain current on regulatory and industry requirements. • Contribute to grant writing, project reporting, and evaluation activities as assigned. Qualifications Required: • Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture, Food Science, Plant Science, Extension Education, or a closely related field. • Demonstrated experience working with fruit, vegetable, or specialty crop producers. • Understanding of Good Agricultural Practices (GAP), pre- and post-harvest handling, and on-farm food safety concepts. • Excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills. • Ability to work independently, travel throughout the state, and manage multiple farm-level projects. Preferred: • Master’s degree or Ph.D. in Agricultural Extension, Food Safety, or related discipline. • Prior experience with farm audits, food safety certification programs, or FSMA compliance. • Knowledge of South Carolina’s produce industry and Extension programming. Work Environment • If needed, the selected candidate will be provided with trainings and hands-on experience to be able to perform the required duties. • Frequent travel to farms and agricultural sites across South Carolina. • Occasional evening or weekend events to meet stakeholder needs. • Fieldwork may involve varying weather conditions and physical activity related to farm inspections. Compensation and Benefits • Competitive salary commensurate with education and experience. • Comprehensive benefits package (health, retirement, and leave). • Professional development and training opportunities. Application Procedure Interested applicants should submit: 1. One page cover letter summarizing qualifications, fitness, and interest in the position 2. Curriculum vitae or resume 3. Contact information for three professional references Job Types: Full-time, Contract, Temporary Pay: $45,000.00 - $55,000.00 per year Benefits: • 401(k) matching • Dental insurance • Employee assistance program • Flexible spending account • Health insurance • Health savings account • Life insurance • Paid time off • Retirement plan • Vision insurance Education: • Bachelor's (Required) Willingness to travel: • 75% (Required) Work Location: In person