Extension Agent I-III, Commercial Horticulture - Vegetables and Fruit Production

Extension Agent I–III, Commercial Horticulture - Vegetables and Fruit Production

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 View phone number on click.appcast.io or the Florida Relay System at View phone number on click.appcast.io (TDD) or visit Accessibility at UF.

The University of Florida is one of the nation's leading public land-grant universities, recognized for excellence in teaching, research, and service. UF advances knowledge and innovation to address critical issues facing communities locally and globally, with a strong commitment to applied science and public engagement.

Within UF, the Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences serves as the state's premier source of scientific expertise in agriculture, natural resources, and the life sciences. IFAS integrates research, education, and outreach to support Florida's economy, environment, and quality of life. With faculty and staff located throughout the state, IFAS translates university research into practical solutions for real-world challenges.

UF/IFAS Extension is the outreach arm of IFAS and a cooperative partnership among federal, state, and county governments. UF IFAS Extension delivers research-based, non-formal education through offices in all 67 Florida counties. Extension professionals work alongside residents, producers, and community leaders to strengthen agricultural systems, protect natural resources, and support thriving communities. This position offers the opportunity to build trusted relationships and deliver education that results in measurable impacts.

Manatee County is located on Florida's central Gulf Coast, south of Tampa Bay and north of Sarasota. The county spans approximately 893 square miles and supports a growing population of more than 475,000 residents. Historically rooted in agriculture, Manatee County continues to maintain a strong production base while experiencing rapid residential and commercial development.

Agriculture remains a vital component of the local economy, with commercial vegetable and fruit operations, small farms, and specialty crop producers operating alongside urban and coastal communities. Key commodities include vegetables, small fruits, and diversified horticultural crops adapted to sandy soils and subtropical conditions. These systems face ongoing challenges related to water quality, nutrient management, pest pressure, labor, and land-use change.

The UF IFAS Extension Manatee County office serves as a hub for agricultural education, technical assistance, and community engagement. The Extension Agent will collaborate with local producers, regional research and education centers, and statewide specialists to ensure programming reflects county needs while supporting sustainable production systems and sound resource stewardship.

The Opportunity

This 12-month, permanent status accruing Extension Agent position will plan, develop, implement, teach, and evaluate comprehensive educational programs in vegetable and fruit production for commercial and small-scale producers in Manatee County. The Extension Agent will address priority needs identified through stakeholder input and an Extension Advisory Committee, delivering applied, research-based education that improves production efficiency, environmental stewardship, and economic viability.

Program Development and Delivery

• Design and conduct educational programs focused on vegetable and fruit production systems, including irrigation management, nutrient management, integrated pest management, water quality protection, and food safety practices.
• Provide on-site technical assistance and diagnostics to producers and agricultural professionals, including sustainable farm systems and specialty crop producers.
• Deliver education through workshops, field days, demonstrations, tours, meetings, conferences, and digital platforms.
• Collaborate with UF IFAS faculty, including research and education center scientists, assisting with trials and on-farm demonstrations to translate findings into practical recommendations and educational materials.
• Coordinate demonstrations relevant to local soils and production conditions.

Partnerships and Accountability

• Develop and maintain an effective Extension Advisory Committee.
• Build partnerships with growers, industry organizations, agencies, and community groups.
• Secure external funding, manage program resources, document impacts, and report outcomes.

Youth Engagement

• Approximately five percent of the appointment will support youth education through collaboration with 4-H, FFA, and agricultural education programs, particularly in vegetable gardening and production topics.

The Extension Agent will work collaboratively with county, district, and state Extension faculty and perform additional duties as assigned in support of the total Extension program.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in horticulture, agriculture, plant science, crop science, or a closely related field from an accredited institution.
• Demonstrated ability to design, implement, and evaluate community-based educational programs.
• Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills appropriate for agricultural audiences.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Ability to use computer technology for communication, data management, and program reporting.
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, and to travel locally and regionally.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a valid Florida driver's license and ability to meet travel requirements.
• Because youth engagement exceeds five percent, successful candidates must meet Level 2 Department of Children and Families background screening requirements.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Florida pesticide applicator license as required for program delivery.
• Candidates must also have a commitment to UF core values.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree in a relevant agricultural or horticultural discipline.
• Experience working with commercial vegetable and fruit production systems in Florida or similar environments.
• Experience conducting applied research, on-farm trials, or Extension demonstrations.
• Ability to translate scientific research into practical, audience-appropriate educational materials.
• Experience developing external funding proposals and managing grants.
• Familiarity with water quality protection, nutrient management regulations, and best management practices relevant to Florida agriculture.

Application Instructions

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.