Iowa State University Extension and Outreach in Benton County, is hiring for a County Youth Coordinator. 

• Position: Type Full-Time
• Travel Required: Travel based on programming needs
• Pay Status: Non-Exempt
• Reports to: Regional Director
• Date Approved: 7/6/2026
• Date Last Reviewed: 7/6/2026

JOB SUMMARY
The County Youth Coordinator provides leadership for Benton County 4-H Youth Development programs by planning, implementing, and evaluating research-based educational opportunities that help youth develop leadership, citizenship, communication, life skills, and career readiness.

This position leads all aspects of the Benton County 4-H Youth Development program including volunteer management, club support, fair programming, youth leadership, camps, school enrichment, and youth engagement while ensuring compliance with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach and Iowa 4-H policies.

The County Youth Coordinator works collaboratively with the Office Assistant, Youth & Community Outreach Coordinator, Regional Director, Extension Council, volunteers, schools, and community partners to strengthen youth opportunities throughout Benton County.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
4-H Youth Development

• Provide leadership for Benton 4-H Youth Development programs.
• Plan, implement, and evaluate research-based youth programming.
• Coordinate community clubs, special interest clubs, Cloverbuds, day camps, overnight camps, workshops, and educational events.
• Develop programming emphasizing:
  • Leadership
  • Citizenship
  • Healthy Living
  • STEM
  • Communication and the Arts
  • Agriculture and Natural Resources
• Expand participation among new and underserved youth audiences.

Volunteer Leadership

• Recruit, train, support, and recognize adult volunteers.
• Provide leadership development opportunities for youth officers and volunteers.
• Foster a positive volunteer culture built on the Iowa 4-H Youth Development model.
• Assist clubs in organizational development and succession planning.

Fair & County Events

• Coordinate all Benton County Fair 4-H Youth Development activities.
• Manage exhibits, judging coordination, superintendent support, recognition events, premium processes, and state fair advancement.
• Coordinate county contests, awards programs, achievement recognition, and leadership events.
• Support participation in regional and state 4-H opportunities.

Youth Partnerships

• Build relationships with schools, homeschool groups, libraries, youth organizations, businesses, and community partners.
• Collaborate with educators to expand school enrichment opportunities.
• Represent Benton County Extension and Outreach at community events.

Program Administration

• Maintain 4-H Online and required enrollment systems.
• Ensure compliance with all Iowa 4-H policies, risk management requirements, and youth protection standards.
• Collect evaluation data and prepare required reports.
• Manage assigned program budgets.
• Assist with grant implementation related to youth programming.

Collaboration

• Collaborate with the Youth & Community Outreach Coordinator on programs serving both youth and community audiences.
• Work closely with the Office Assistant regarding enrollment, communications, reporting, and financial processes.
• Keep the Regional Director informed of program accomplishments, needs, partnerships, and opportunities.
• Assist with office coverage and customer service when needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree in Education, Youth Development, Agriculture, Human Sciences, Communications, or related field preferred.
• Associate degree with equivalent experience may be considered.
• Experience working with youth required.
• Experience supervising volunteers preferred.
• Experience planning and delivering educational programs.
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation.
• Successful completion of Child Protection Safety Program requirements.

COMPETENCIES

• Positive Youth Development
• Volunteer recruitment and leadership
• Public speaking and facilitation
• Program planning and evaluation
• Event management
• Organization and time management
• Relationship building
• Conflict resolution
• Collaboration
• Written and verbal communication
• Adaptability and initiative

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provides leadership and direction to volunteers, club leaders, interns, and temporary program assistants.
• Coordinates volunteer assignments and project teams.
• Does not directly supervise full-time employees.

DECISION-MAKING AUTHORITY

• Makes independent decisions regarding youth programming, volunteer coordination, educational activities, and program budgets within approved guidelines.
• Collaborates with the Regional Director on policy, personnel, and strategic decisions.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT

• This position operates in both office and community settings.
• Frequent travel throughout Benton County is required.
• Evening and weekend work is expected.
• Attendance at the Benton County Fair and other major county events is required.
• Occasional regional and statewide travel for training and conferences may be required.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Lift and transport program materials up to 30 pounds.
• Set up and tear down educational displays and event materials.
• Frequent standing and walking during programs and events.
• Ability to communicate effectively with youth, volunteers, educators, and community partners.

EXPECTED HOURS OF WORK
Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. with a 30 minute lunch break.
Regular evening and weekend work is required based on programming needs.

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

To receive full consideration, applications should be submitted by 4:30 p.m. on Friday, October 2, 2026. The position will remain open until filled.

To apply, submit a Resume, References, and Application for Employment to:
ISU Benton County Extension and Outreach
501 1st Avenue
Vinton, IA 52349
Email: Click the apply now button 
Phone: 319-472-4739

This institution is an equal opportunity provider. For the full non-discrimination statement or
accommodation inquiries, go to www.extension.iastate.edu/legal.