FORT VALLEY STATE UNIVERSITY (FVSU), a state and land-grant institution of the University System of Georgia, invites applications for the position of Agriculture Program Assistant.

Fort Valley State University, the only 1890 land-grant university in Georgia, is a comprehensive institution that provides an education to over 2,800 students including graduate students. The university is located in the town of Fort Valley in Peach County, the original site of the state's peach industry. Its 1,365-acre (5.52 km2) campus is Georgia's second-largest public university in area.

Fort Valley State University is an affirmative action, equal opportunity institution and does not discriminate against applicants, students, or employees on the basis of race, gender, ethnicity, national origin, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, or marital or veteran status.

JOB SUMMARY

The Agriculture Program Assistant is responsible for providing care to ensure the growth and development of edible tree, shrub and vine fruit, vegetables, and the care of farm animals on the Fort Valley State University Campus. The Agriculture Program Assistant will provide assistance with programming and demonstration site maintenance in relation to animal and plant production, to include trainings, farm tours, and workshops. The employee must be a team player and willing to assist in other areas as needed in the upkeep of Extension facilities, tractors, vehicles, and other equipment.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Plant and establish trees, shrubs, and other plants such as vegetables, etc.
• Provide maintenance and care for all established plants and animals on the farm sites.
• Establish and maintain all the necessary fencing required for plant and animal sites.
• Harvest fruits, vegetables and maintain animals on the farm.
• Monitor irrigation system on the organic production farm site.
• Assist with the management and marketing of animal and crop production.
• Other assignments as needed

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• High School diploma.
• Interest in working with plants and animals.
• Must have a valid driver's license and clean driving record.

PREFFERED QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree
• Ability to operate farm equipment, including tractors, mowers, weed eaters, trimmers, etc.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Some travel may be required at times within the state of Georgia to prepare, establish, maintain, harvest crops and provide care for animals.
• The candidate will work a minimum of 40 hours per week; some overtime might be required
• The working environment is primarily outdoors.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Performs repetitive tasks periodically
• Drives small and medium size tractors
• Trims or prunes fruit trees throughout the growing season
• Transports small and large animals to and from the farm
• Moves farm equipment within and around the farm area
• Standing, lifting, bending for extended periods of time

USG Core Values Statement

The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 26 institutions of higher education and learning, as well as the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 8.2.18.1.2 and can be found on-line at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section8/C224/#p8.2.18_personnel_conduct

Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 6.5 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom found on-line at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section6/C2653.