EXT AGENT I - III

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

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

University of Florida/IFAS Extension and Hardee County seek to fill a 12-month, permanent status-accruing Commercial Horticulture Extension Agent position. The Commercial Horticulture Extension Agent provides leadership for countywide educational programs that support the professional landscape, nursery, arboriculture, and turf industries. This position is jointly supported by UF/IFAS Extension and Lee County and reports to the County Extension Director with guidance from the State Program Leader for Agriculture.

Program Development and Delivery

• Plan, implement, teach, and evaluate science‑based educational programs addressing commercial horticulture best management practices.
• Deliver Green Industries Best Management Practices education and related workforce training.
• Design and present in‑person and online programs on fertilization, pruning, irrigation, integrated pest management, plant selection, arboriculture, and landscape sustainability.
• Provide continuing education units for pesticide applicator licensing in coordination with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.

Industry and Community Engagement

• Establish and maintain strong working relationships with landscape professionals, nursery operators, golf course superintendents, homeowner associations, and public agencies.
• Assemble and lead an advisory committee representing industry and community stakeholders.
• Support the Lee County Parks Department Tree Monitoring Program with consultation, training and evaluations.

Scholarship and Collaboration

• Develop educational materials, non‑technical publications, presentations, and digital resources.
• Collaborate with Extension colleagues including state specialists on interdisciplinary initiatives addressing regional priorities.
• Seek grants and external funding to enhance program reach and impact.

Organizational Responsibilities

• Maintain accurate records and complete plans of work, reports of accomplishment, and impact documentation.
• Participate in professional associations and continuing education.
• Contribute to Extension office initiatives and assigned emergency management responsibilities.
• Engage in youth development programming as a small component of the position.

About UF

The University of Florida is a premier public land‑grant institution recognized nationally and internationally for excellence in teaching, research, and service. With a mission grounded in innovation, collaboration, and lifelong learning, UF serves the people of Florida and beyond by generating knowledge and preparing leaders to address complex societal challenges. Faculty and staff are united by a shared commitment to academic rigor, public service, and measurable impact.

About IFAS

The Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences is one of the most comprehensive land‑grant systems in the nation, integrating teaching, research, and Extension to support Florida’s agricultural producers, natural resources, and communities. With faculty and staff located across the state, the Institute translates science into practical solutions that improve environmental stewardship, economic vitality, and quality of life.

About IFAS Extension

UF/IFAS Extension is the outreach arm of the Institute and operates as a partnership among federal, state, and county governments. Extension connects university research to local needs through science‑based education delivered in all 67 Florida counties. Extension faculty work directly with residents, businesses, industries, and local governments to address issues in agriculture, horticulture, natural resources, youth development, and community well‑being. Extension professionals are educators, collaborators, and trusted resources who help communities adapt, grow, and thrive.

UF offers a comprehensive benefits package that supports employees’ health, financial security, and work‑life balance. Details are available at https://hr.ufl.edu/benefits/.

About Lee County

Lee County is located in Southwest Florida and includes the cities of Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Bonita Springs, Sanibel, Captiva, and Fort Myers Beach. The county encompasses more than 1,200 square miles of land and approximately 590 miles of Gulf Coast shoreline. With a permanent population exceeding 860,000 residents and substantial seasonal growth, Lee County is one of the fastest‑growing regions in Florida.

The local economy consists of tourism, construction, and a robust green industry that includes landscape maintenance, arboriculture, nursery production, and golf course management. Environmental stewardship and water conservation are critical priorities due to coastal ecosystems, urban development, and regulatory requirements. The Lee County Extension Office serves as a central hub for science‑based education supporting residents, industry professionals, and public agencies through applied horticulture, environmental education, and workforce training.

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in horticulture or a closely related field appropriate to commercial horticulture Extension; if appointed with a bachelor’s degree, the individual must make at least 50 percent progress toward a master’s degree within six years of employment.
• 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.

• Master’s degree or higher in horticulture or a 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.
• Arboriculture credentials or professional certifications related to commercial horticulture.
• Experience securing grants or external funding.
• Ability to communicate effectively with Spanish‑speaking clientele.

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.