County Extension Faculty Positions
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Other Extension Agent Opportunities
Alachua County Extension Agent II–IV or Program Extension Agent II–IV and County Extension Director (540577)
Closing date: August 5, 2026 at 11:55 PM Eastern Time
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Details
Location
Gainesville, FLOpen Date
July 14, 2026
Deadline
August 5, 2026 at 11:55 PM Eastern TimeYou Belong at a University That’s Leading the Way
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 352-392-2477 or the Florida Relay System at 800-955-8771 (TDD) or visit Accessibility at UF.
The Opportunity
This 12-month permanent or non-permanent status position serves as both an Extension Agent or Program Extension Agent and County Extension Director, providing leadership and administrative oversight for UF IFAS Extension Alachua County while delivering research-based educational programming aligned with local needs.
This role is structured as a 75% administrative and leadership assignment and a 25% programmatic assignment. The appointment may be made at the Extension Agent II–IV or Program Extension Agent II–IV level based on qualifications and experience.
Please note: The Extension Agent track is permanent status-accruing, and the Program Extension Agent track is non-permanent status-accruing in the Florida Cooperative Extension Service (FCES). The track followed by a successful candidate who does not currently hold permanent status in FCES will be agreed upon by UF and the candidate. It will depend on the current position and experience. A successful candidate who currently holds permanent status in FCES will follow the Extension Agent track.
Administrative and Leadership Responsibilities (75%)
- Provide overall leadership and direction for all UF IFAS Extension programs and operations within Alachua County
- Lead strategic planning, needs assessment, and program accountability to ensure alignment with county priorities and UF IFAS Extension goals
- Supervise Extension faculty and staff, including performance management, mentoring, and professional development
- Manage county Extension budgets, facilities, and operational resources in partnership with county government and the University of Florida
- Serve as the primary liaison to county officials, advisory committees, and community stakeholders
- Ensure compliance with university policies, fiscal requirements, civil rights compliance expectations, and reporting standards
Programmatic Responsibilities (25%)
- Develop, implement, and evaluate educational programs in a relevant subject-matter area aligned with county needs
- Maintain active stakeholder advisory structures to guide program development and ensure community relevance
- Translate applied research into practical applications that produce measurable outcomes
- Contribute to statewide Extension initiatives and collaborate with specialists and agents across Florida
- Support 4-H Youth Development programming through collaboration and integration, as appropriate
This position requires strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills, along with the ability to build partnerships and deliver impactful Extension programming.
About Alachua County
Alachua County is located in north-central Florida and covers approximately 969 square miles. The county has a population exceeding 285,000 residents and includes a blend of urban, suburban, and rural communities. Gainesville, the county seat, serves as a regional center for education, healthcare, and innovation, anchored by the University of Florida and a strong network of public and private institutions.
The local economy is driven by higher education, healthcare, agriculture, and emerging technology sectors. Agricultural production includes livestock, forage crops, specialty crops, and small-scale farming enterprises that contribute to local and regional food systems. Natural resources such as springs, wetlands, and conservation lands are essential to environmental sustainability and recreation in the region.
UF IFAS Extension Alachua County collaborates closely with local government, community organizations, and stakeholders to deliver educational programming that addresses community priorities, enhances economic vitality, and promotes stewardship of natural resources.
Required Qualifications
- A master’s degree in a relevant discipline appropriate to the level of appointment (such as agriculture, natural resources, community development, public administration, or a closely related field)
- For County Extension Director appointment, applicants must hold Extension Agent II or equivalent or Program Extension Agent II or equivalent at minimum
- Demonstrated ability to effectively collaborate with local government, community organizations, and stakeholders
- Proven experience in program development, implementation, evaluation, and reporting
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a statewide Extension system
- Commitment to the University of Florida core values
Seminole County Extension Agent I–II – Environmental Horticulture (540580)
Closing date: August 5, 2026 at 11:55 PM Eastern Time
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Details
Location
Sanford, FLOpen Date
July 14, 2026
Deadline
August 5, 2026 at 11:55 PM Eastern TimeYou Belong at a University That’s Leading the Way
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 352-392-2477 or the Florida Relay System at 800-955-8771 (TDD) or visit Accessibility at UF.
The Opportunity
This is a 12-month permanent status accruing Extension Agent I or II position in Environmental Horticulture. The agent will develop, deliver, and evaluate research-based educational programs that promote sustainable landscape practices, water conservation, and environmental protection throughout Seminole County.
Program Development and Delivery
- Develop and deliver research-based programs on Florida-Friendly Landscaping™, which includes topics such as water conservation, soil health, and integrated pest management.
- Conduct workshops, demonstrations, and on-site consultations for homeowners, landscape professionals, and public agencies.
- Provide training on fertilizer ordinances, irrigation efficiency, and landscape best management practices.
- Coordinate countywide Green Industries Best Management Practices (GI-BMP) programming, including training delivery, certification support, and outreach to industry professionals.
- Provide oversight and educational integration for the Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ demonstration garden and Native Plant garden, collaborating with volunteers, including the Native Plant Society, to enhance learning experiences and community engagement.
Stakeholder Engagement and Collaboration
- Build partnerships with municipal governments, homeowner associations, and green industry stakeholders.
- Collaborate with UF/IFAS Extension faculty to align programs with statewide priorities.
- Work alongside Seminole County’s Watershed Division to support NPDES reporting requirements through educational programming and documentation of outreach impacts.
- Partner with water resource professionals, including regional water management districts, to advance water quality and conservation initiatives.
- Support and engage volunteers to expand program reach and effectiveness.
Applied Research and Evaluation
- Conduct needs assessments to identify priority environmental horticulture issues.
- Evaluate program effectiveness and document measurable impacts.
- Contribute to applied research and demonstration efforts that support sustainable landscape systems.
Communication and Resource Development
- Develop fact sheets, educational materials, and digital content.
- Deliver programming through workshops, online platforms, and community events.
- Maintain accurate records and reporting to support GI-BMP participation and NPDES documentation.
Professional Development
- Maintain subject-matter expertise through continuing education.
- Participate in Extension teams and interdisciplinary initiatives.
About Seminole County
Seminole County is located in Central Florida, just north of Orlando, spanning approximately 345 square miles. With a population exceeding 470,000 residents, it is one of the fastest-growing counties in the region. The county features a blend of suburban communities, natural lands, and water resources, including rivers, lakes, and protected conservation areas.
Historically rooted in agriculture, Seminole County has evolved into a suburban hub while maintaining strong ties to environmental stewardship and horticulture industries. The county places a strong emphasis on protecting water quality and managing urban landscapes responsibly, making it a key location for environmental horticulture programming.
The Seminole County Extension office plays a central role in delivering educational outreach on sustainable landscaping, irrigation practices, and environmental protection. Its proximity to other Central Florida Extension offices and research centers supports collaboration and regional program development while addressing both local and regional needs.
Required Qualifications
- A bachelor’s degree for Extension Agent I, and a master’s degree (or at least 50% progress toward a master’s degree) for Extension Agent II in horticulture, environmental science, plant science, or a closely related field.
- Demonstrated ability to design and deliver research-based educational programs (https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu).
- Strong written and verbal communication skills for public engagement.
- Experience or familiarity with environmental horticulture practices, including irrigation, fertilization, and pest management.
- Ability to work independently while building effective partnerships with stakeholders and agencies.
- Experience maintaining records, evaluating programs, and reporting measurable outcomes.
- Ability to obtain a valid driver’s license and willingness to travel locally.
- Candidates must obtain and maintain the Green Industries Best Management Practices (GI-BMP) Instructor certification, which is required for the Environmental Horticulture program area.
- Candidates must also have a commitment to UF core values.
Walton County - Defuniak Springs, FL - Extension Agent I – II, Marine Science (Florida Sea Grant – Marine & Coastal Ecosystems) (540438)
Closing date: July 23, 2026 at 11:55 PM Eastern Time
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Details
Location
Defuniak Springs, FLOpen Date
July 1, 2026
Deadline
July 23, 2026 at 11:55 PM Eastern TimeYou Belong at a University That’s Leading the Way
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 352-392-2477 or the Florida Relay System at 800-955-8771 (TDD) or visit Accessibility at UF.
The Opportunity
This 12-month permanent status accruing position serves as an Extension Agent I or II providing leadership for Florida Sea Grant programming in Walton County, focusing on marine and coastal ecosystems. The agent will design and deliver research-based education that supports the sustainable use, protection, and resilience of coastal resources.
Florida Sea Grant and Extension Integration
- Serve as the county-based Sea Grant Extension professional, linking UF research with local coastal needs
- Translate marine science research into practical education for stakeholders including residents, industries, and decision-makers
- Contribute to statewide Sea Grant initiatives addressing coastal resilience, fisheries sustainability, and water resource protection
Program Development and Delivery
- Develop, implement, and evaluate educational programs addressing coastal ecosystems, estuarine health, fisheries, marine debris, and water quality
- In collaboration with the Walton County Environmental Coordinator, develop and implement Habitat Conservation Plans to address education and outreach needs around the topics of artificial reefs, coastal dune lakes, microplastics, and charter boat training initiatives.
- Deliver workshops, field demonstrations, and applied training programs for varied audiences
- Create outreach materials, including digital and print resources, tailored to coastal issues in Walton County
Stakeholder Engagement and Partnerships
- Build and maintain working relationships with key Walton County stakeholders, including:
- Coastal residents and homeowner associations
- Charter and commercial fishing industries
- Tourism and hospitality businesses
- Walton County Board of County Commissioners and planning departments
- Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and local water management entities
- Choctawhatchee Basin Alliance and regional conservation organizations
- UF IFAS Extension partners across the Northwest District
- Facilitate collaborative efforts that address coastal hazards, water quality improvement, and habitat conservation
Needs Assessment and Evaluation
- Conduct ongoing assessments to identify emerging issues such as coastal erosion, storm impacts, and ecosystem degradation
- Measure program effectiveness using established evaluation methods and adjust programming accordingly
- Document and report program impacts to stakeholders and funding partners
Extension Leadership and Collaboration
- Participate in multi-county and statewide initiatives within Marine Science and Natural Resource program areas
- Collaborate with UF IFAS Extension specialists and Sea Grant faculty
- Engage in professional development to maintain expertise in marine and coastal systems
Minimum requirements:
- A bachelor’s degree for Extension Agent I or a master’s degree (or at least 50% progress toward a master’s degree) for Extension Agent II in marine science, coastal ecology, environmental science, fisheries, natural resources, or a closely related field from an accredited institution
- Ability to develop, implement, and evaluate Extension programs in accordance with UF IFAS Extension guidelines (https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/)
- Strong written and oral communication skills for technical and public audiences
- Experience working with marine, estuarine, or coastal ecosystems
- Demonstrated ability to build partnerships with community organizations, agencies, and industry stakeholders
- Knowledge of program evaluation methods and reporting practices
- Ability to obtain a valid driver’s license and ability to travel within the county and region
- Candidates must also have a commitment to UF core values