Extension Agent I - II - Family and Consumer Science

University of Florida•Brevard, NC

About The Position

You Belong at a University That’s Leading the Way The Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences [http://ifas.ufl.edu] (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 [https://hr.ufl.edu/manager-resources/recruitment-staffing/institutional-equity-diversity/ada-and-accessibility-services-for-uf-employees-and-job-applicants/] . The Opportunity This permanent status accruing position will serve as Extension Agent I or Extension Agent II in the Family & Consumer Science program area for Brevard County. The successful candidate will lead educational programming aimed at strengthening financial capability, supporting homeownership readiness, improving food safety knowledge, and advancing food entrepreneurship. The position includes 5% youth involvement and therefore requires Level 2 DCF background screening. About UF The University of Florida is a leading public land‑grant institution known for its academic excellence, scientific advancement, and statewide engagement. The university delivers research, education, and public service that strengthen communities and support Florida’s economic vitality. Faculty and staff benefit from a comprehensive suite of resources that promote professional growth, well‑being, and long-term career development. Employees have access to extensive health plans, retirement options, and professional services designed to support both personal and workplace success. Additional details are available here [https://hr.ufl.edu/benefits/]. About IFAS Extension Extension serves as the statewide outreach and engagement enterprise of the University of Florida. Through applied research and practical education, Extension brings science‑based information to individuals, families, businesses, and communities throughout the state. Extension programs span community resource development, family well‑being, financial management, agriculture, environmental stewardship, and health education. The mission is carried out through a coordinated network of county Extension offices, regional and statewide program specialists, and research facilities that translate scientific discoveries into hands‑on learning opportunities. Extension professionals collaborate with local governments, agencies, and partners to address emerging challenges, support community goals, and improve quality of life for Florida residents. Extension programs equip individuals and families with knowledge related to nutrition, chronic disease prevention, financial capability, food safety, home management, and community resource strategies. The organization prioritizes local needs, ensuring that all educational activities reflect relevant research and are tailored to support long‑term community resilience. The work is practical, accessible, and grounded in the university’s commitment to serving the people of Florida. About Brevard County Brevard County is located along Florida’s Atlantic coast and spans more than 1,500 square miles, making it one of the state’s largest counties by land area. With a population exceeding 600,000 residents, Brevard is home to a strong mix of coastal communities, suburban development, and expanding industries. The county is widely recognized for its historic ties to space exploration, including the Kennedy Space Center and Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, both of which play significant roles in aerospace, technology, and economic development. Brevard’s geography includes more than 70 miles of Atlantic shoreline, barrier islands, rivers, lagoons, and inland municipalities. The Indian River Lagoon—one of the most biodiverse estuaries in North America—runs through the county and influences local environmental and community priorities. Agriculture remains present in pockets throughout the county, with operations ranging from small farms to specialty crop producers. The UF IFAS Extension Brevard County office provides educational programming that supports family well‑being, financial stability, food safety, small business development, and community engagement. The county’s size, growing population, and mix of economic sectors present wide opportunities for Family & Consumer Science programming.

Requirements

A bachelor’s degree in family and consumer sciences, business, financial management, community development, or a closely related field for Extension Agent I.
A master’s degree or 50% progress toward a master’s degree in these or closely related fields for Extension Agent II.
Must become ServSafe® certified prior to teaching food safety and quality education to food entrepreneurs.
Must show significant progress (at least 30% of the requirements) towards completing Accredited Financial Counselor (AFC) certification within 3 years of employment.
Level 2 DCF background screening is required due to youth involvement exceeding 5%.
Ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends.
Have (or obtain) valid Florida driver’s license and willingness to travel using personal transportation.
Ability to design, coordinate, market, and evaluate educational programs based on research and community needs
Strong communication skills and the ability to establish effective working relationships with community partners and clientele.
Candidates must also have a commitment to UF core values

Nice To Haves

A master’s degree in family and consumer sciences, business, financial planning, community development, or a closely related field for Extension Agent I or Extension Agent II.
Experience delivering financial education, small business development support, or homeownership readiness programming.
Experience in food safety education or working directly with food entrepreneurs or food‑based small businesses.
Demonstrated success building partnerships with community organizations or agencies.
Bilingual ability in English and Spanish is preferred due to the county’s significant Spanish‑speaking population.

Responsibilities

Develop, implement, and evaluate Family & Consumer Science programming tailored to the needs of Brevard County residents.
Allocate approximately 55% of time to financial capability and homeownership programs, including budgeting, credit-building, debt management, and housing readiness.
Allocate approximately 40% of time to supporting beginning and established cottage food operators and food entrepreneurs. Topics include food safety standards, labeling and packaging, regulatory requirements, starting a food business, and financial management for small-scale food enterprises.
Deliver classes, workshops, consultations, and educational materials using research-based Extension methodologies.
Ensure program delivery methods support both urban and rural communities.
Collaborate with county agencies, housing organizations, financial resource networks, food entrepreneurship groups, business development partners, and public health agencies.
Participate in advisory groups, committees, or community coalitions related to financial education, family well‑being, and small food business development.
Secure external support for programs through grants, sponsorships, collaborations, and fee‑based services when appropriate.
Manage program budgets, maintain required documentation, and prepare reports reflecting program outcomes and impacts.
Develop communication materials, outreach strategies, and promotional content to increase program visibility.
Maintain a flexible work schedule, including evenings and weekends, as required by programming needs.

Benefits

Employees have access to extensive health plans, retirement options, and professional services designed to support both personal and workplace success.

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