EXT AGENT I-III

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

This 12-month permanent status accruing position serves as an Extension Agent I, II, or III with a primary focus on agriculture, emphasizing livestock production systems. The agent is responsible for developing, delivering, and evaluating comprehensive Extension programs that address the needs of beef cattle, small ruminants, poultry, and equine producers and pasture and small farm management in Highlands County. At least 5% of the candidates time will be devoted to 4-H Youth Development.

Program Development and Delivery

• Design and implement educational programs focused on beef cattle management, forage systems, herd health, nutrition, and reproductive efficiency.
• Translate university research into practical recommendations through workshops, field days, on-farm demonstrations, and producer consultations.
• Incorporate applied research and demonstrations to address local production challenges and emerging issues affecting the livestock industry.

Stakeholder Engagement and Collaboration

• Build and maintain strong relationships with livestock producers, agricultural organizations, allied industry partners, and local agencies.
• Collaborate with other UF IFAS Extension faculty, regional specialists, and university researchers to strengthen program delivery and impact.
• Support county and regional agricultural initiatives aligned with UF IFAS Extension priorities.

Evaluation and Professional Development

• Conduct needs assessments and evaluate program outcomes to document educational impact.
• Maintain required reports and records in accordance with UF IFAS Extension guidelines.
• Participate in ongoing professional development consistent with the rank of Extension Agent I or II.

About UF

The University of Florida is recognized as one of the nation’s leading public research universities, with a strong record of academic excellence, scientific innovation, and public service. As a land‑grant institution, UF carries the responsibility of addressing statewide needs through research, teaching, and outreach. Its mission is built on improving the lives of Floridians through evidence‑based solutions and high‑impact educational programs. Faculty benefit from robust institutional support, access to advanced research resources, and opportunities to collaborate across multiple disciplines to address issues that matter to Florida’s residents and industries.

About IFAS

The Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences is a cornerstone of the University of Florida, integrating teaching, research, and Extension to advance agriculture, natural resources, and human well-being. Through its statewide presence, IFAS connects university-based science to real-world application, supporting Florida’s agricultural producers, families, and communities with practical, research-based education.

About IFAS Extension

UF IFAS Extension is the public outreach arm of IFAS, delivering nonformal education through a unique federal, state, and county partnership. Extension professionals work directly with residents, producers, and local organizations to solve problems, build skills, and strengthen local economies. With offices in every Florida county, UF IFAS Extension plays a vital role in sustaining agriculture, protecting natural resources, and improving quality of life. Employees enjoy a robust benefits package, details of which can be found at https://hr.ufl.edu/benefits/.

About Highlands County

Highlands County is in south-central Florida and is characterized by its rolling ridges, extensive pasturelands, and strong agricultural heritage. The county spans a large geographic area and supports a population of more than 100,000 residents, with growth centered around communities such as Sebring, Avon Park, and Lake Placid. Historically, Highlands County has been shaped by citrus production and cattle ranching, both of which remain central to the local economy.

Livestock agriculture is a dominant industry, with cow–calf operations, forage-based systems, and supporting agribusinesses playing a critical role in land use and economic stability. The county also contains numerous lakes and environmentally sensitive areas, requiring producers to balance productivity with responsible land management. The UF IFAS Extension Highlands County office serves as a trusted source of science-based education, supporting ranchers, landowners, and agricultural professionals through applied research, demonstrations, and direct technical assistance.

Commensurate with education and experience.

• A bachelor’s degree (for Extension Agent I) or a master’s degree or at least 50% progress toward a master’s degree (for Extension Agent II) in animal science or a closely related field from an accredited college or university. Applicants without a completed degree will be considered if the degree will be earned by the start date of employment.
• Demonstrated technical expertise in animal science and livestock production systems.
• Self‑starting, energetic, and able to work effectively as part of a team.
• Strong written and verbal interpersonal and communication skills.
• Demonstrated resourcefulness, creativity, enthusiasm, and initiative in program development.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective partnerships and collaborative working relationships.
• Commitment to positive and proactive customer service.
• Ability to manage competing priorities and adapt to unexpected situations.
• Commitment to UF core values.
• Ability to work collaboratively with local producers, organizations, agencies, and UF IFAS Extension colleagues to promote agriculture.

• A master’s degree in animal science or a closely related field. If hired solely with a bachelor’s degree, the agent is expected to progress at least 50% toward completion of a master’s degree within the first six years of employment.
• Practical experience in Extension education, particularly related to livestock production in South Florida.
• Demonstrated commitment to community engagement and applied education.
• Evidence of effective collaborations, partnerships, and outreach or marketing efforts with community agencies and organizations.
• Experience working in multicultural settings; bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish is a plus.
• Technological literacy is necessary for effective communication, program delivery, and program management.

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.