Extension Agent I - III - Urban Horticulture

Urban Horticulture•Hernando, MS

7d•Onsite

About The Position

You Belong at a University that’s Leading the Way The University of Florida is a national leader in research, teaching, and public service, offering rigorous academics and applied solutions that strengthen Florida’s communities, industries, and natural resources. As a land‑grant institution, UF is committed to advancing practical, science-based education that benefits residents statewide. Employees have access to a comprehensive benefits package that promotes well-being, professional development, and long-term stability. Details about benefits can be found here . 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 UF IFAS Extension and Hernando County are seeking a full-time, permanent-status accruing Extension Agent I, Extension Agent II, or Extension Agent III specializing in urban and commercial horticulture. This faculty position plays an essential role in developing and delivering science-based programs that assist residents, commercial landscape managers, and industry professionals in adopting sustainable, efficient, and environmentally responsible horticultural practices. The successful applicant will be housed in the Hernando County Extension Office in Brooksville. About UF/IFAS Extension UF IFAS Extension is the statewide outreach arm of the University of Florida, translating university-led science into practical programs that support agriculture, horticulture, water resources, family well-being, youth development, coastal issues, and sustainability. Through county Extension offices, Research and Education Centers, and collaborations with local, state, and federal partners, UF IFAS Extension provides timely, research-based education that strengthens Florida’s economy and enhances quality of life. Extension faculty serve as community educators who identify local needs, develop practical learning opportunities, lead demonstration projects, and support informed decision-making across Florida’s diverse landscapes. UF IFAS Extension faculty work in partnership with community organizations, advisory committees, and local government to deliver programming grounded in data, university research, and real-world applicability. Programs emphasize continuous improvement, measurable outcomes, and responsiveness to emerging local issues. Through statewide networks of specialists, Extension Agents access applied research, professional trainings, and interdisciplinary support that inform program design and delivery. This collaborative, science-driven model ensures that UF IFAS Extension continues to meet the evolving needs of Florida’s residents and industries. About Hernando County Hernando County is located along Florida’s Nature Coast and encompasses approximately 589 square miles of coastal and inland ecosystems. With a growing population exceeding 200,000 residents, the county includes Brooksville, Spring Hill, and coastal communities near the Gulf of Mexico. The area has historical roots in agriculture, timber, and ranching, and continues to support citrus, cattle, nurseries, and commercial horticulture. Natural features such as the Weeki Wachee River, Chassahowitzka Wildlife Management Area, and the Withlacoochee State Forest shape local environmental and water resource considerations. Hernando County’s landscape includes extensive residential development, commercial properties, public green spaces, and sensitive spring systems, all contributing to a strong need for horticulture, landscape management, and water conservation education. The county is served by the UF IFAS Extension Hernando County Office and is part of the Central Extension District. Nearby Florida Extension offices and Research and Education Centers—including Pasco, Citrus, and Sumter Counties, as well as the Gulf Coast Research and Education Center—provide additional regional collaboration opportunities.

Requirements

Candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree in horticulture, environmental horticulture, plant science, or a closely related field for appointment as Extension Agent I; a master’s degree or at least 50% progress toward a master’s degree is required for Extension Agent II; and a completed master’s degree is required for Extension Agent III.
Candidates must meet minimum experience requirements equivalent to the assigned faculty level.
A Level 2 Background Screening through the Florida Department of Children and Families is required .
As part of the Commercial Horticulture program area, candidates must obtain the Private Applicator license and Green Industry/BMP certification within six months of hire.
Strong communication skills
Ability to use educational technologies to support programming
Valid Florida driver’s license and willingness to work evenings, weekends, and occasional overnight travel
Ability to plan, implement, and evaluate programs
Ability to work with homeowners, industry professionals, and community partners
Candidates must also have a commitment to UF core values .

Nice To Haves

A master’s degree is preferred.
Preferred certifications for commercial horticulture include ISA Certified Arborist, a pesticide applicator license, or similar industry credentials.
Experience managing volunteer programs or Master Gardener Volunteers
Diagnostic skills in identifying plant pests, diseases, and abiotic disorders
Demonstrated success in securing grants or cost-recovery funds
Experience partnering with local government or industry associations
Comfort with public speaking and working with groups of various sizes
Applicants with experience delivering horticulture or landscape management programming to residential or commercial audiences are encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities

Develop, deliver, evaluate, and report on horticulture programs addressing turfgrass management, ornamental plant selection, irrigation efficiency, pest and disease management, nutrient management, sustainable landscaping, and Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ principles.
Provide multi-format instruction, including workshops, field demonstrations, certification trainings, webinars, and continuing education serving homeowners, commercial businesses, landscape professionals, and public institutions.
Produce educational materials such as fact sheets, articles, newsletters, digital content, and web resources.
Maintain a diagnostic and consultation service for residential and commercial clientele through email, phone, office consultations, and on-site visits.
Conduct horticultural assessments to support best management practices in commercial and residential landscapes.
Recruit, train, guide, and evaluate Master Gardener Volunteers.
Coordinate volunteer education, demonstration projects, community outreach, service hour reporting, and program recognition.
Collaborate with the county’s Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ coordinator on joint programming and resource protection efforts.
Build relationships with county departments, industry groups, state agencies, and community organizations to strengthen local capacity and deliver targeted education.
Work with other Extension programs—including 4-H—to support horticulture education; all non–4-H faculty contribute 5% of their effort to 4-H Youth Development.
Maintain an active advisory committee to guide needs assessment, program planning, and budgeting discussions.
Seek external funding through grants, partnerships, cost recovery, and sponsorships.
Maintain accurate program records, reports, and compliance with UF and county policies.
Participate in required trainings and professional development.
Support county emergency operations as needed and perform other duties assigned by the County Extension Director and District Extension Director.