Extension Agent I - IV - Agriculture and Natural Resources

University of Florida • Gainesville, FL

351d

About The Position

The University of Florida (UF), the flagship university for the state of Florida, is a land grant institution with core values of unique purpose, excellence, integrity, collaboration and partnership, lifelong learning, responsiveness, innovation, communication, and global reach. The Florida Cooperative Extension Service is a partnership between state, federal, and county governments that provides quality, relevant education and research-based expertise to foster healthy people, a healthy environment, and a healthy economy. We hire the best. Varied views and experiences make us strong. We look for candidates with both academic and people skills who work well in teams, honor their commitments, innovate in a rapidly changing world and believe in opportunity for all. Working for Florida Cooperative Extension will allow you to positively impact your community as you help shape future generations, growing your career while earning a competitive salary and excellent benefits.

Requirements

• A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in horticultural science, plant/soil science, agronomy, or a closely related field is required.
• A master's degree and relevant work experience are required to be considered for an agent II appointment.
• If hired with solely a bachelor's degree, progress towards obtaining a master's degree within the first 6 years of employment is expected.
• A strong commitment to education and a strong work ethic.
• Ability to prioritize, multi-task, and balance diverse responsibilities.
• A commitment to customer service and Extension for All guidelines.
• Ability to use computers, web delivery, and apply social media to your work.
• Strong interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills.
• Ability to obtain a pesticide license within 6 months of hire.
• Must be able to obtain and maintain a valid Florida driver's license.
• Flexibility with working hours; willingness to work irregular hours, including evenings, weekends, and overnight travel.
• Commitment to UF core values.

Nice To Haves

• A master's degree in fields listed for the bachelor's degree is preferred.
• Knowledge and experience with computer technology, social media and program management.
• Ability to design, teach, and conduct community-based educational programs.
• Extension experience or equivalent.

Responsibilities

• Use a variety of educational delivery methods to reach target clientele as well as conduct frequent farm visits, field trials, and on-farm demonstrations.
• Develop an advisory committee to assist with program design, identification of client needs and priority issues, analysis of county situations, and development of program budgets.
• Work closely with local producers, advisory committees, and regulatory agencies to implement sustainable agricultural practices and statewide initiatives to conserve water and protect aquifers.
• Introduce technologies to enhance precision agriculture, natural resource management, and cost efficiency.
• Provide excellent customer service for the community through various communication modes including, but not limited to, telephone, email, online, social media, and face-to-face contact.
• Develop and sustain partnerships with community agencies and leaders, businesses, county government, media, and the public, and find innovative ways to attract new audiences.
• Seek, secure, and manage grants, contracts, or other funding and partnership opportunities to support the agriculture and natural resources extension program.
• Attend and contribute to professional meetings and in-service trainings, and actively seek out and attend professional development opportunities.
• Follow University of Florida policies and procedures and policies and procedures set by Hernando County government as deemed relevant.
• Carry out other assignments and responsibilities in support of the total county extension program as assigned by the County Extension Director and District Extension Director.

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Excellent benefits

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Industry: Educational Services
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree