Extension Agent I-III - Commercial Horticulture

Classification Title:

EXT AGENT I-III

Classification Minimum Requirements:

Candidates shall hold a master's degree and/or bachelor's degree with relevant experience and accomplishments.

Job Description:

You Belong at a University That''''s Leading the Way

The Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) is creating an environment that affirms community across all dimensions. If an accommodation due to a disability is needed to apply for this position, please call 352-392-2477 or the Florida Relay System at 800-955-8771 (TDD) or visit Accessibility at UF.

The Opportunity

The University of Florida/IFAS Extension and Collier County seek to fill a 12-month, permanent status-accruing Extension Agent I-III position in Commercial Horticulture. This faculty position provides leadership for a comprehensive commercial horticulture Extension program serving Collier County''''s landscape, nursery, arboriculture, pest management, turfgrass, and green industry sectors.

The successful candidate will develop, implement, evaluate, and report innovative, research-based educational programs addressing current and emerging issues affecting commercial horticulture businesses, environmental stewardship, workforce development, pesticide licensing, and landscape sustainability. This position is jointly supported by UF/IFAS Extension and Collier County and reports to the County Extension Director with programmatic guidance from appropriate state and regional Extension leadership.

Program Development and Delivery

• Conduct formal and informal needs assessments to identify priorities affecting commercial horticulture stakeholders throughout Collier County.
• Develop, deliver, evaluate, and report science-based educational programs addressing integrated pest management, plant health care, irrigation efficiency, water conservation, fertilizer best management practices, arboriculture, invasive species management, storm resilience, landscape sustainability, worker protection safety, and emerging horticultural issues.
• Plan and deliver in-person and virtual educational programs including workshops, field demonstrations, field days, webinars, certification courses, professional development programs, and industry conferences.
• Deliver Green Industries Best Management Practices education and related workforce development programming.
• Provide continuing education opportunities supporting pesticide applicator licensing and other professional credentials in partnership with industry associations and regulatory agencies.
• Translate university research into practical recommendations that improve profitability, environmental stewardship, operational efficiency, and risk management within commercial horticulture operations.

Industry and Community Engagement

• Establish and maintain productive working relationships with landscape professionals, nursery operators, arborists, pest management professionals, turf managers, municipalities, and public agencies.
• Develop and maintain a stakeholder advisory committee representing commercial horticulture interests to assist with program planning, evaluation, and accountability.
• Collaborate with industry organizations, local governments, educational institutions, and community partners to address horticultural and environmental priorities.
• Serve as a trusted source of research-based information and technical assistance for commercial horticulture clientele throughout Collier County.

Scholarship and Collaboration

• Demonstrate Extension scholarship through educational innovation, applied demonstrations, publications, presentations, impact reporting, and other scholarly activities.
• Collaborate with county, regional, and state Extension faculty on multidisciplinary initiatives addressing agriculture, horticulture, natural resources, urban landscapes, and water quality.
• Pursue grants, contracts, sponsorships, and other external funding opportunities that enhance program effectiveness and reach.
• Maintain active participation in relevant professional associations and continuing education opportunities.

Organizational Responsibilities

• Maintain accurate records and complete plans of work, reports of accomplishment, impact documentation, and accountability reports in accordance with University and Extension policies.
• Utilize data-driven evaluation methods to document program effectiveness, stakeholder behavior change, and economic, environmental, and social impacts.
• Participate in Extension office initiatives, county activities, and emergency management responsibilities as assigned.
• Support youth development programming as a minor component of the position (approximately 5%).

About UF

The University of Florida is a premier public research university and a member of the Association of American Universities. UF is dedicated to excellence in teaching, research, and service and consistently ranks among the nation''''s top public institutions. The University serves as a catalyst for discovery, innovation, and community engagement throughout Florida and beyond.

About UF/IFAS

The Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences is one of the nation''''s most comprehensive land-grant systems. Through integrated teaching, research, and Extension programs, the institute generates knowledge and solutions that advance agriculture, protect natural resources, support economic development, and improve communities across Florida.

About UF/IFAS Extension

UF/IFAS Extension connects research and education to the practical needs of Florida''''s residents and industries. With faculty located throughout the state, Extension delivers science-based information through educational programs, consultations, demonstrations, applied research, and community partnerships. Extension faculty help stakeholders solve problems, adopt best practices, and make informed decisions grounded in the latest research.

The University of Florida offers a comprehensive benefits package that supports employees'''' health, financial security, professional growth, and work-life balance. Additional information regarding benefits is available on the UF Human Resources benefits website.

About Collier County

Collier County is located in Southwest Florida along the Gulf Coast and encompasses more than 2,300 square miles, making it one of the largest counties in Florida by land area. Home to more than 417,000 residents, the county includes Naples, Immokalee, Marco Island, Golden Gate, and rapidly growing unincorporated communities.

The county''''s economy is supported by tourism, construction, real estate, agriculture, and professional services. Agriculture remains an important economic sector, with vegetable production, citrus, ornamental plant production, and livestock operations contributing significantly to regional agricultural activity.

Water conservation, nutrient management, invasive species prevention, urban tree management, hurricane resilience, and sustainable landscape practices are increasingly important priorities for Southwest Florida. The Commercial Horticulture program is well positioned to provide leadership through education, workforce development, applied demonstrations, and collaborative partnerships that address local and regional needs.

Expected Salary:

Commensurate with education and experience.

Required Qualifications:

• Candidates must possess the academic credentials required for appointment at the appropriate Extension Agent rank. A bachelor''''s degree in horticulture, plant science, agronomy or a closely related discipline is required for Extension Agent I applicants. A master''''s degree, or at least 50 percent progress toward a master''''s degree, is required for Extension Agent II applicants. A master''''s degree is required for Extension Agent III applicants.
• Demonstrated ability to design, deliver, and evaluate educational programs.
• Strong written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Effective organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Commitment to providing timely, high‑quality customer service.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Proficiency with educational technology, data management, and digital communication tools.
• Willingness to work evenings, weekends, and travel as needed.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a valid Florida driver's license.
• Ability to obtain required Green Industries Best Management Practices Instructor and pesticide applicator certifications consistent with the Commercial Horticulture program area.
• Candidates must also have a commitment to UF core values.

Preferred:

• Master's degree or higher in horticulture, plant science, agronomy or related discipline.
• Professional experience in Extension education or an equivalent applied education setting.
• Background in landscape pest management, arboriculture, irrigation, turf, or ornamental plant production.
• Experience securing grants or external funding.

Special Instructions to Applicants:

Apply at Careers at UF by 11:55 p.m. (Eastern) of the posting end date, and attach:

• Cover letter that states applicant's interest in the position and qualifications relative to the credentials listed above
• Curriculum vitae
• Contact information (including email addresses) for 3 individuals willing to write letters of recommendation

Selected candidate will be required to provide an official transcript to the hiring department upon hire. A transcript will not be considered "official" if a designation of "Issued to Student" is visible.  Degrees earned from an education institution outside of the United States are required to be evaluated by a professional credentialing service provider approved by National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES).

Hiring is contingent upon eligibility to work in the US. The University of Florida is a public institution and subject to all requirements under Florida Sunshine and Public Record laws. The University and greater Gainesville community enjoy a variety of cultural events, restaurants, year-round outdoor recreational activities, and social opportunities.

Health Assessment Required: No