State Specialized Agent II–IV, Community Resource Development (Civic Engagement and Leadership Development)

University of Florida

23h•Hybrid

About The Position

The Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) Extension is seeking a State Specialized Agent II–IV position in Community Resource Development, specializing in Civic Engagement and Leadership Development. This is a 12-month, 100% Extension appointment. In addition to core State Specialized Extension Agent responsibilities, this role serves as the state contact for Community Resource Development. This is a permanent status or permanent status accruing position for an Extension Agent II–IV, depending on eligibility. The location is negotiable based on office availability and input from UF/IFAS Extension leadership.

Requirements

Candidates must hold a master’s degree from an accredited institution in community development, adult education, agricultural education, or a closely related discipline aligned with one of Extension’s program areas to be hired as a State Specialized Agent II, III or IV.
Experience planning, implementing, and evaluating educational programs.
At least 5 years of land-grant university Extension or equivalent educational programming experience.
Ability to work cooperatively with faculty, community groups, agencies, and statewide partners.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to interpret applied research and develop research-based educational materials.
Strong organizational skills, the ability to coordinate training for large faculty groups, manage program data, and the ability to manage grants and budgets according to UF guidelines.
Proficiency with digital tools used for Extension instruction, outreach, and reporting, such as Microsoft Teams, Zoom, webinar platforms, social media tools, learning management systems, and UF/IFAS-approved reporting platforms.
A valid driver’s license and willingness to travel to meet programming requirements.
Ability to work evenings or weekends when needed, based on the needs of the target audience.
DCF Level 2 background screening will be required.
Candidates must also have a commitment to UF core values.

Nice To Haves

A doctoral degree in community development, leadership studies, adult education, agricultural education, or a closely related discipline.
Proven success leading statewide civic engagement or leadership development programs, including program design, implementation, and evaluation.
Demonstrated expertise in deliberative dialogue, facilitation, and participatory engagement approaches, with the ability to develop and deliver programs that apply these strategies effectively.
Demonstrated experience serving in a statewide or regional leadership role within Extension.
Documented experience developing and delivering professional development and training for Extension faculty, local government officials, non-profit and for-profit organizations and/or other entities.
Demonstrated success securing and managing external funding through grants, contracts, gifts, or fee‑based programming.
Strong ability to collaborate with academic faculty, Extension leadership, and external partners while representing Extension programs at state, regional, and national levels.

Responsibilities

Serve as the state contact for Community Resource Development, representing UF/IFAS Extension at state, regional, and national meetings and professional associations.
Provide leadership for statewide civic engagement and leadership development initiatives aligned with UF/IFAS Extension priorities.
Maintain recognized expertise in civic engagement, leadership development, and community capacity building.
Lead the development, implementation, and evaluation of statewide, research-based civic engagement and leadership development programs focused on adult audiences.
Design and deliver training, curricula, and educational support materials to increase county Extension faculty capacity to deliver priority programs.
Strengthen county faculty proficiency in civic engagement and leadership activities that enhance community resources and economic development.
Support county faculty, clientele, and partners through technical assistance, coaching, and professional development.
Participate in collaborative applied research projects with Extension Specialists and other faculty.
Develop scholarly and applied educational materials, including EDIS publications, presentations, curricula, and web‑based or social media tools that support Extension programming.
Contribute to program impact reporting and documentation of outcomes at the state level.
Work collaboratively with the Associate Dean for Families, Youth and Communities, Program Leaders, State and Regional Specialized Agents, and Extension Specialists.
Serve as a member of Initiative leadership teams, priority work groups, and action teams relevant to Community Resource Development.
Secure external funding through grants, contracts, gifts, and revenue‑generating activities to support statewide Extension programs.
Support marketing and communication efforts for UF/IFAS Extension programs within the assigned area of responsibility.