County Extension Faculty Positions
Make a Statewide Impact. Lead Youth Development. Shape the Future.
Join our team and gain an opportunity to design, lead, and grow a comprehensive youth development program within one of the nation’s premier land-grant university systems. Click here to express interest in the 4-H Extension Agent Campaign!
We currently have a 4-H Extension Agent opportunity in Brevard and Madison Counties.
State Specialized Agent II–IV & Associate Program Leader - 4-H Youth Development (540052)
Closing date: June 28, 2026 at 11:55 PM Eastern Time
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Details
You Belong at a University That’s Leading the Way
The Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences 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, 100% Extension appointment as a State Specialized Extension Agent II-IV, with an administrative appointment of 50% as an Associate Program Leader. This position provides operational leadership for Florida 4‑H and is responsible for ensuring that statewide priorities are implemented consistently and effectively. This position manages the day‑to‑day operations of the Florida 4‑H State Headquarters, supervises headquarters staff, coordinates statewide processes, and provides statewide leadership for workforce development for youth and implementation of 4-H agent professional development.
Working closely with the State 4‑H Program Leader, the Associate Program Leader focuses on operational leadership, implementation, coordination, organizational follow-through, and resolution of operational challenges across the statewide system. The State 4‑H Program Leader sets vision, priorities, and final staffing decisions; the Associate Program Leader ensures that those decisions are carried out through clear processes, staff coordination, and effective operations.
The Associate Program Leader serves as the operational lead for Florida 4‑H, ensuring the statewide system functions effectively and consistently. This position plays a key role in advancing Florida 4‑H’s mission to prepare youth to be Beyond Ready and in supporting the goal of reaching 300,000 youth statewide.
This is a permanent status or permanent status accruing position for an Extension Agent II-IV, depending on eligibility. Candidates who have obtained permanent status in the Florida Cooperative Extension Service will retain this status. The position is in State 4-H Headquarters, located at East Campus in Gainesville, Florida.
Position Summary
The Associate Program Leader (APL) is a faculty role within UF/IFAS Extension providing statewide leadership in youth workforce readiness and operational leadership for Florida 4-H Youth Development. This is a 12-month, 100% Extension appointment as a State Specialized Extension Agent II–IV, with a 50% statewide Extension assignment focused on workforce readiness and youth development and a 50% administrative assignment as Associate Program Leader for Florida 4-H. The position is located at the Florida 4-H State Headquarters in Gainesville, Florida.
The primary Extension assignment focuses on statewide leadership for youth workforce readiness, including development, implementation, evaluation, and expansion of experiential, workforce-aligned programming that prepares youth to be Beyond Ready. The Associate Program Leader works collaboratively with county faculty, Regional Specialized Agents, State Specialized Agents, and external partners to strengthen employability skills, technical skill development, career navigation, leadership development, and postsecondary preparation opportunities for youth across Florida.
In addition to workforce readiness leadership, the Associate Program Leader supports the professional and operational capacity of the Florida 4-H system through headquarters coordination, staff supervision, onboarding and support for new agents, and implementation of statewide operational processes. Working closely with the State 4-H Program Leader, the Associate Program Leader supports implementation of statewide priorities through effective coordination, communication, operational systems, and organizational follow through. The Associate Program Leader works collaboratively with State 4-H faculty and staff to support coordinated implementation of statewide priorities, operational systems, and organizational processes.
Key Responsibilities
Associate Program Leader (60%)
Headquarters Operations and Staff Supervision
- Support day-to-day operations of the Florida 4-H State Headquarters.
- Supervise headquarters staff, including oversight of work responsibilities, priorities, timelines, and follow through.
- Ensure headquarters operations, communications, and administrative workflows effectively support statewide 4-H efforts and county faculty.
- Coordinate administrative and operational support for statewide initiatives.
- Coordinate organizational follow-through for operational processes, implementation efforts, and statewide projects, including tracking progress, supporting communication, and assisting with resolution of operational barriers.
- Coordinate response and follow-through for operational questions, concerns, and implementation challenges directed to State 4-H Headquarters, ensuring timely communication, problem resolution, and referral as appropriate.
New 4-H Agent Onboarding and Support
- Design and oversee a multi-year onboarding and early career support program for new 4-H agents.
- Establish statewide onboarding expectations, training structures, and professional development supports for new agents.
- Coordinate onboarding implementation in partnership with State 4-H faculty and staff.
- Provide operational guidance, coaching, and troubleshooting support as new agents navigate statewide systems, policies, procedures, and program expectations.
- Support early identification and resolution of operational and implementation challenges affecting new agents.
Statewide Hiring Process Coordination
- Coordinate statewide screening processes for Florida 4-H hires, including scheduling, communication, and documentation.
- Ensure screening processes are applied consistently and comply with UF/IFAS Extension and University of Florida requirements.
- Work with UF/IFAS Extension administration and Human Resources to support efficient hiring processes.
- Support statewide hiring efforts while recognizing that final hiring decisions and staffing priorities are made by the State 4-H Program Leader.
Statewide Workforce Readiness and Career Pathways Leadership (40%)
Workforce Readiness Program Leadership
- Co-lead statewide workforce readiness efforts for Florida 4-H (Priority Work Group 3).
- Lead development and implementation of experiential, workforce-aligned youth programming that strengthens employability skills, leadership development, career readiness, and postsecondary preparation.
- Develop workforce readiness resources and implementation strategies aligned with Florida workforce needs.
Career Pathways and Youth Opportunities
- Support career exploration, career navigation, technical skill development, and work-based learning opportunities such as internships, mentoring, credentialing, and industry-connected experiences
- Build partnerships that expand workforce readiness opportunities and strengthen career pathways for youth.
Program Evaluation and Resource Development
- Evaluate programs and use results to improve quality, effectiveness, and reach.
- Secure grants and partnerships that expand Florida 4-H workforce readiness efforts.
Extension Scholarship and Professional Contribution
- Document and share effective practices that strengthen youth development and workforce readiness programming.
- Contribute scholarly Extension products appropriate for promotion at the State Specialized Agent level.
- Represent Florida 4-H in professional meetings and related settings as assigned.
About UF
The University of Florida is one of the nation’s leading public research universities, consistently ranked among the top institutions for academic excellence, innovation, and public impact. As Florida’s land‑grant university, UF is deeply committed to advancing knowledge, improving lives, and addressing critical issues facing communities across the state, nation, and world.
About UF/IFAS Extension
UF/IFAS Extension is a core component of that mission, translating university research into practical, science‑based education that strengthens youth, families, agriculture, natural resources, and communities. Through a statewide network of faculty and staff, Extension connects Floridians with timely education that builds skills, supports decision‑making, and prepares future generations for success.
About 4-H
4‑H Youth Development is one of the largest and most impactful youth development organizations in Florida, reaching hundreds of thousands of young people annually. Florida 4‑H empowers youth to become confident, capable, and ready for the future through hands‑on learning experiences focused on leadership, citizenship, workforce readiness, and personal growth. This position plays a pivotal statewide leadership role in ensuring Florida 4‑H functions as a coordinated, high‑quality system that prepares youth to be Beyond Ready.
UF offers a comprehensive benefits package, including retirement plans, health insurance, paid leave, and professional development opportunities. Learn more at UF Benefits.
About The State 4‑H Headquarters
The Florida 4‑H State Headquarters is located on the University of Florida campus in Gainesville, the administrative and operational center for UF/IFAS Extension. Gainesville is situated in north‑central Florida and serves as a hub for statewide Extension leadership, academic collaboration, and program coordination. Alachua County is home to a population of approximately 280,000 residents and is recognized for its strong educational presence, rich agricultural history, and central role in statewide Extension operations.
State 4‑H Headquarters supports Florida’s 67 county Extension offices and works closely with regional and state faculty to ensure consistent program quality, operational efficiency, and alignment with statewide priorities. Gainesville’s location allows for direct collaboration with university faculty, Extension administration, and external partners while providing access to a vibrant community known for innovation, culture, and natural resources.
Required Qualifications:
- Candidates must hold a master’s degree from an accredited institution in youth development, education, agricultural education, or a closely related field. Candidates may be placed at State Specialized Agent II-IV based on experience and UF/IFAS Extension criteria.
- Demonstrated experience providing statewide or multi‑county program leadership.
- At least 5 years of land-grant university Extension or equivalent educational programming experience.
- Proven ability to manage complex systems, workflows, and operational processes.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills appropriate for statewide audiences.
- Ability to collaborate effectively with university faculty, Extension professionals, and external partners.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a valid driver’s license and willingness to travel throughout the region to meet programming requirements.
- Ability to travel statewide and work occasional evenings or weekends as required by programming.
- Candidates must also have a commitment to UF core values.
- Successful completion of a Level 2 DCF background check due to youth involvement.
Northwest District
Northeast District
Madison County (4-H Campaign) - Madison FL - Extension Agent - 4-H Youth Development (538873)
Closing date: July 7, 2026 at 11:55 PM Eastern Time
Express interest at Careers at UF
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Details
Location
Madison, FL
You Belong at a University that’s Leading the Way
The Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences 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 the 4-H Youth Development Extension Agent for Madison County.
The successful candidate will design and deliver a dynamic, research-based, countywide 4-H Youth Development program aligned with Florida 4-H priorities, including:
- Positive youth development
- Volunteer systems
- Workforce readiness
- Strategic program growth
Programming emphasis will be shaped by both community needs and individual expertise, allowing the agent to leverage personal strengths while meeting local priorities.
Core focus areas may include:
- Agriculture
- Healthy Living
- Leadership
- STEM
The successful candidate will provide leadership for a comprehensive countywide 4-H program serving youth audiences through clubs, school enrichment, afterschool programs, camps, special interest programs, and other educational delivery methods. Responsibilities include recruiting, training, and supporting volunteers; developing partnerships with schools, community organizations, and stakeholders; evaluating program outcomes; expanding participation and program reach; contributing to multi-county and statewide initiatives; and documenting program impact consistent with UF/IFAS Extension faculty expectations.
Program Development, Delivery, and Evaluation
- Design and deliver a comprehensive countywide 4-H Youth Development program aligned with Florida 4-H priorities, local needs, and UF/IFAS Extension goals.
- Deliver educational programs through a variety of methods, including 4-H clubs, school enrichment, afterschool programs, camps, special interest programs, and countywide events.
- Develop educational opportunities in agriculture, healthy living, leadership, STEM, workforce readiness, and other priority areas.
- Utilize approved evaluation tools, reporting systems, and program accountability measures to document participation, assess outcomes, and demonstrate program impact.
- Maintain program records and complete required reporting in accordance with county, state, and UF/IFAS Extension expectations.
- Ensure programming is research-based, measurable, and aligned with UF/IFAS Extension policies, procedures, and statewide priorities.
Volunteer Recruitment, Training, and Oversight
- Recruit, screen, train, and support volunteers who extend the reach and impact of the county 4-H Youth Development program.
Ensure compliance with Florida 4-H volunteer screening procedures, youth protection standards, risk management policies, and other applicable UF/IFAS requirements. - Provide orientation, training, resources, and ongoing support to volunteers serving in clubs, camps, school enrichment programs, advisory groups, and other 4-H delivery methods.
- Develop volunteer leadership capacity by identifying opportunities for volunteer involvement, recognition, and professional growth.
- Maintain volunteer records and documentation in accordance with Florida 4-H and UF/IFAS policies and procedures.
Foster positive relationships that support volunteer engagement and program success.
Community Engagement and Partnerships
- Build and sustain partnerships with schools, nonprofit organizations, community groups, local government agencies, youth-serving organizations, and private-sector partners to support educational programming and expand opportunities for youth.
- Engage advisory committees, stakeholders, and community leaders to identify needs, guide program planning, and strengthen program relevance and impact.
- Promote awareness of 4-H opportunities through outreach, relationship-building, and participation in community events and collaborative initiatives.
- Develop partnerships that support Florida 4-H priority program areas.
- Expand participation and increase program reach by engaging various audiences and identifying opportunities to serve new and untapped youth populations.
- Represent UF/IFAS Extension and Florida 4-H in a professional manner that strengthens community trust and support for Extension programming.
- Develop and implement communication strategies that promote 4-H opportunities and increase program visibility.
Program Administration and Countywide Responsibilities
- Maintain program records, enrollment information, financial documentation, and reporting requirements in accordance with county, state, and UF/IFAS policies and procedures.
- Coordinate countywide 4-H events, activities, recognition programs, camps, competitions, and other educational opportunities.
- Implement risk management, youth protection, and program accountability procedures to ensure safe and effective program delivery.
- Support the operation of county 4-H advisory committees and other stakeholder groups that contribute to program planning and evaluation.
- Manage program resources, equipment, and facilities in support of educational programming and organizational goals.
Collaborate with Extension faculty and staff across program areas to develop and deliver multidisciplinary educational initiatives that address local needs. - Participate in county, district, and state meetings, trainings, and activities that support UF/IFAS Extension and Florida 4-H priorities.
- Contribute to multi-county and statewide 4-H initiatives and align efforts with Florida 4-H priority working groups.
Seek and secure external resources through grants, sponsorships, donations, and partnerships to support program growth and sustainability.
Scholarship, Service, and Academic Contribution
- Demonstrate scholarship consistent with UF/IFAS Extension faculty expectations.
- Participate in professional associations, committees, task forces, and service activities that support UF/IFAS Extension, Florida 4-H, and the broader youth development profession.
- Engage in professional development opportunities to strengthen subject matter expertise, educational methods, leadership skills, and program effectiveness.
- Contribute to county, district, state, and national Extension initiatives that advance the mission of UF/IFAS Extension and Florida 4-H.
- Maintain progress toward promotion and permanent status by documenting accomplishments in Extension, scholarship, and service.
About Madison County
Madison County is a rural county located in North Florida along the Florida-Georgia border. With a population of approximately 19,000 residents, the county is characterized by its strong agricultural base, natural resources, and close-knit communities. Agriculture, forestry, and related industries play a significant role in the local economy and provide numerous opportunities for youth engagement through UF/IFAS Extension programming.
Madison County 4-H has a long history of positive youth development and benefits from strong partnerships with local schools, community organizations, agricultural stakeholders, volunteers, and government agencies. The county offers opportunities to develop and expand educational programs in leadership, citizenship, STEM, healthy living, agriculture, and natural resources. School enrichment programs, community clubs, camps, project learning experiences, and youth leadership activities serve as important components of the county's 4-H program.
A unique asset to Madison County is 4-H Camp Cherry Lake, a historic coeducational youth camp established in 1937 and situated on the scenic northern shore of the 600-acre Cherry Lake. As a flagship Florida 4-H camping and environmental education center, Camp Cherry Lake has long served as a destination for youth development, outdoor education, leadership training, and environmental learning. The facility is currently undergoing major renovations and improvements that will enhance its capacity to support innovative programming, volunteer engagement, and regional partnerships for years to come. Madison County is also home to North Florida College, which serves as an important educational partner and resource for the region, providing opportunities for collaboration in education, workforce development, and community engagement.
As part of UF/IFAS Extension, the Madison County 4-H Youth Development program is positioned to address local needs while supporting statewide Extension priorities. The county's supportive community, engaged stakeholders, and commitment to youth development provide an excellent environment for innovative programming and meaningful impacts on the lives of young people and their families. The combination of a revitalized Camp Cherry Lake, strong community partnerships, and access to regional educational resources creates exciting opportunities for growth and innovation in the county's 4-H program.
Minimum Requirements
- A bachelor's degree in youth development, education, agriculture, family and consumer sciences, natural resources, leadership, social sciences, or a closely related field for Extension Agent I; a master's degree or 50% progress toward a master's degree for Extension Agent II.
- Demonstrated ability to plan, organize, teach, and evaluate non-formal educational programs.
- Demonstrated leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to recruit, train, and support volunteers while maintaining adherence to youth protection and risk management standards.
- Ability to work independently, manage multiple responsibilities, and meet established deadlines.
- Willingness and ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, to meet program needs.
- Ability to travel within the county and occasionally throughout the state in support of Extension programming and professional responsibilities.
- Ability to obtain a valid U.S. driver's license and access to reliable transportation.
- Successful completion of a Florida Department of Children and Families Level 2 background screening.
- Commitment to the mission of UF/IFAS Extension and the core values of the University of Florida.
- Candidates must also have a commitment to UF core values.
Preferred Qualifications
- A master's degree in youth development, education, agriculture, leadership, social sciences, family and consumer sciences, natural resources, or a closely related field.
- Experience working with youth in educational, leadership development, agricultural, or community-based settings.
- Experience recruiting, training, and supporting volunteers.
- Experience developing and delivering educational programs through schools, community organizations, camps, afterschool programs, or other non-formal learning environments.
- Demonstrated ability to develop partnerships with schools, community organizations, government agencies, and other stakeholders.
- Experience utilizing evaluation data to communicate program outcomes and impacts.
- Experience securing external resources through grants, sponsorships, donations, or other partnership opportunities.
- Experience with 4-H, Extension, positive youth development, or other youth-serving organizations.
To express interest in this position, please click here .
Central District
Southwest District
Lee County - Ft Myers, FL - Extension Agent I – III - Commercial Horticulture (540018)
Closing date: June 23, 2026 at 11:55 PM Eastern Time
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Details
You 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
University of Florida/IFAS Extension and Lee County seek to fill a 12-month, permanent status-accruing Commercial Horticulture Extension Agent position. The Commercial Horticulture Extension Agent provides leadership for countywide educational programs that support the professional landscape, nursery, arboriculture, and turf industries. This position is jointly supported by UF/IFAS Extension and Lee County and reports to the County Extension Director with guidance from the State Program Leader for Agriculture.
Program Development and Delivery
- Plan, implement, teach, and evaluate science‑based educational programs addressing commercial horticulture best management practices.
- Deliver Green Industries Best Management Practices education and related workforce training.
- Design and present in‑person and online programs on fertilization, pruning, irrigation, integrated pest management, plant selection, arboriculture, and landscape sustainability.
- Provide continuing education units for pesticide applicator licensing in coordination with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.
Industry and Community Engagement
- Establish and maintain strong working relationships with landscape professionals, nursery operators, golf course superintendents, homeowner associations, and public agencies.
- Assemble and lead an advisory committee representing industry and community stakeholders.
- Support the Lee County Parks Department Tree Monitoring Program with consultation, training and evaluations.
Scholarship and Collaboration
- Develop educational materials, non‑technical publications, presentations, and digital resources.
- Collaborate with Extension colleagues including state specialists on interdisciplinary initiatives addressing regional priorities.
- Seek grants and external funding to enhance program reach and impact.
Organizational Responsibilities
- Maintain accurate records and complete plans of work, reports of accomplishment, and impact documentation.
- Participate in professional associations and continuing education.
- Contribute to Extension office initiatives and assigned emergency management responsibilities.
- Engage in youth development programming as a small component of the position.
Required Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in horticulture or a closely related field appropriate to commercial horticulture Extension; if appointed with a bachelor’s degree, the individual must make at least 50 percent progress toward a master’s degree within six years of employment.
- Demonstrated ability to design, deliver, and evaluate educational programs.
- Strong written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills.
- Effective organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
- Commitment to providing timely, high‑quality customer service.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
- Proficiency with educational technology, data management, and digital communication tools.
- Willingness to work evenings, weekends, and travel as needed.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a valid Florida driver’s license.
- Ability to obtain required Green Industries Best Management Practices Instructor and pesticide applicator certifications consistent with the Commercial Horticulture program area.
- Candidates must also have a commitment to UF core values.
Southeast District
Brevard County (4-H Campaign) - Cocoa FL - Extension Agent - 4-H Youth Development (538873)
Closing date: July 10, 2026 at 11:55 PM Eastern Time
Express interest at Careers at UF
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Details
Location
Bushnell, FLYou Belong at a University that’s Leading the Way
The Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences 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 is for a 4‑H Youth Development Extension Agent serving Brevard County. This faculty member will have the responsibility of planning, delivering, evaluating, and expanding a high‑quality 4‑H youth development program that aligns with the mission and statewide objectives of UF IFAS Extension. The role centers on positive youth development, leadership preparation, life‑skill building, and experiential learning opportunities that meet the needs of a wide range of youth across the county.
Program Development, Delivery, and Evaluation
- Design, implement, and evaluate educational programs based on needs assessments, county priorities, and statewide 4‑H frameworks.
- Deliver hands‑on learning opportunities using research‑based curriculum and youth development models.
- Collect and analyze program data to demonstrate measurable outcomes and ensure continual program improvement.
Volunteer Recruitment, Training, and Oversight
- Recruit, screen, train, and mentor adult volunteers to support 4‑H clubs, camps, school enrichment, and countywide youth events.
- Ensure all volunteers follow UF IFAS Extension guidelines, risk‑management procedures, and youth safety standards.
- Provide ongoing coaching, educational workshops, and leadership development for volunteers and youth.
Community Engagement and Partnerships
- Expand 4‑H visibility by developing collaborations with schools, youth‑serving organizations, local government agencies, and community partners.
- Strengthen relationships with agricultural, environmental, and STEM‑related industries to support workforce and leadership development.
- Represent UF IFAS Extension at community events, advisory meetings, and educational collaborations.
Program Administration and Countywide Responsibilities
- Manage enrollment, reporting, event coordination, and program documentation following state and county standards.
- Lead countywide 4‑H events, competitions, advisory committee meetings, and recognition programs.
- Work with Extension faculty from other program areas on multi‑disciplinary initiatives.
Scholarship, Service, and Academic Contribution
- Demonstrate scholarly productivity through applied research, presentations, publications, and professional service.
- Pursue ongoing professional development to strengthen youth development and educational outreach skills.
Minimum Requirements
- A bachelor’s degree in youth development, education, agriculture, social sciences or a closely related field for Extension Agent I; a master’s degree or 50% progress toward a master’s degree for Extension Agent II.
- Evidence of leadership ability, strong communication skills, and program development capabilities (source: https://hr.ifas.ufl.edu/extensions-faculty-resources/).
- Ability to plan, teach, deliver, and evaluate educational programs (source: https://hr.ifas.ufl.edu/extensions-faculty-resources/).
- Willingness to work evenings, weekends, and flexible hours as required for youth programming (source: https://hr.ifas.ufl.edu/working-at-uf/).
- Ability to travel using personal transportation for official business (source: https://www.fa.ufl.edu/).
- Ability to comply with risk‑management, youth protection standards, and volunteer oversight procedures (source: https://4h.ifas.ufl.edu/).
- Because youth involvement exceeds 5%, this position requires Level 2 DCF Background Screening in accordance with state and federal youth safety guidelines.
- Candidates must also have a commitment to UF core values.
Preferred Qualifications
- A master’s degree for Extension Agent I or II in a field related to youth development, education, agriculture, social sciences, or human sciences.
- Experience working with youth, volunteers, schools, or community organizations in educational or leadership‑focused settings.
- Demonstrated ability to develop curricula, facilitate group learning, and evaluate educational outcomes.
- Experience planning and executing multi‑site, countywide, or large‑scale youth events.
- Experience collaborating with agricultural, natural resources, or STEM‑related partners to support youth learning opportunities.
- Brevard County has a growing Spanish‑speaking population; therefore, bilingual English–Spanish skills are beneficial for program delivery.
Further Information
About UF
The University of Florida is recognized as one of the nation’s leading public research universities, with a strong record of academic excellence, scientific innovation, and public service. As a land‑grant institution, UF carries the responsibility of addressing statewide needs through research, teaching, and outreach. Its mission is built on improving the lives of Floridians through evidence‑based solutions and high‑impact educational programs. Faculty benefit from robust institutional support, access to advanced research resources, and opportunities to collaborate across multiple disciplines to address issues that matter to Florida’s residents and industries.
About IFAS Extension
UF IFAS Extension serves as the statewide outreach arm of the university, translating research into practical knowledge that supports communities, agriculture, natural resources, youth development, and economic resilience. Faculty in Extension fulfills an academic role focused on engaging local residents through workshops, demonstrations, applied learning, and formal partnerships with organizations, schools, and agencies. Extension programs are designed to strengthen families, build youth leadership, support workforce development, and reinforce agricultural and environmental stewardship across Florida. Those who join UF IFAS Extension also receive a competitive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement options, leave programs, and various professional development resources. Details are available at https://hr.ufl.edu/benefits/.
The institution’s statewide network of county offices, research centers, and campus departments allows Extension faculty to work closely with colleagues and stakeholders to solve local challenges. UF IFAS Extension’s work is grounded in practical, science‑based education delivered directly to Floridians where they live and work. This commitment ensures that communities have direct access to university expertise and the tools needed to improve quality of life, economic opportunity, and long‑term success.
About Brevard County
Brevard County is one of Florida’s most dynamic and strategically significant counties, spanning approximately 1,550 square miles along the Atlantic Coast, commonly known as the Space Coast. With a population of over 600,000 residents, the county includes a mix of coastal cities, suburban communities, and rural areas. Established in 1844, Brevard County has evolved into a center for aerospace innovation, tourism, environmental stewardship, and community engagement.
The county’s economy is driven by a combination of aerospace and technology industries, tourism, and a growing agricultural sector that includes citrus, specialty crops, nursery production, and small-scale farming operations. Its extensive coastline, estuaries, and environmentally sensitive lands support strong natural resources and marine science programs. UF/IFAS Extension maintains an active presence in the county, delivering educational programs in agriculture, horticulture, natural resources, family and consumer sciences, and 4-H youth development.
Brevard County’s population and strong youth base provide significant opportunities for impactful 4-H programming across urban, suburban, and rural communities. Additionally, proximity to UF/IFAS Research and Education Centers and collaboration with regional partners enhances the ability to deliver innovative and responsive Extension programming throughout the county.
To express interest in this position, please click here.
Highlands County - Extension Agent I–III - I–III, Agriculture (Livestock) (540191)
Closing date: July 2, 2026 at 11:55 PM Eastern Time
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Details
You 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, II, or III with a primary focus on agriculture, emphasizing livestock production systems. The agent is responsible for developing, delivering, and evaluating comprehensive Extension programs that address the needs of beef cattle, small ruminants, poultry, and equine producers and pasture and small farm management in Highlands County. At least 5% of the candidates time will be devoted to 4-H Youth Development.
Program Development and Delivery
- Design and implement educational programs focused on beef cattle management, forage systems, herd health, nutrition, and reproductive efficiency.
- Translate university research into practical recommendations through workshops, field days, on-farm demonstrations, and producer consultations.
- Incorporate applied research and demonstrations to address local production challenges and emerging issues affecting the livestock industry.
Stakeholder Engagement and Collaboration
- Build and maintain strong relationships with livestock producers, agricultural organizations, allied industry partners, and local agencies.
- Collaborate with other UF IFAS Extension faculty, regional specialists, and university researchers to strengthen program delivery and impact.
- Support county and regional agricultural initiatives aligned with UF IFAS Extension priorities.
Evaluation and Professional Development
- Conduct needs assessments and evaluate program outcomes to document educational impact.
- Maintain required reports and records in accordance with UF IFAS Extension guidelines.
- Participate in ongoing professional development consistent with the rank of Extension Agent I or II.
About UF
The University of Florida is recognized as one of the nation’s leading public research universities, with a strong record of academic excellence, scientific innovation, and public service. As a land‑grant institution, UF carries the responsibility of addressing statewide needs through research, teaching, and outreach. Its mission is built on improving the lives of Floridians through evidence‑based solutions and high‑impact educational programs. Faculty benefit from robust institutional support, access to advanced research resources, and opportunities to collaborate across multiple disciplines to address issues that matter to Florida’s residents and industries.
About IFAS
The Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences is a cornerstone of the University of Florida, integrating teaching, research, and Extension to advance agriculture, natural resources, and human well-being. Through its statewide presence, IFAS connects university-based science to real-world application, supporting Florida’s agricultural producers, families, and communities with practical, research-based education.
About IFAS Extension
UF IFAS Extension is the public outreach arm of IFAS, delivering nonformal education through a unique federal, state, and county partnership. Extension professionals work directly with residents, producers, and local organizations to solve problems, build skills, and strengthen local economies. With offices in every Florida county, UF IFAS Extension plays a vital role in sustaining agriculture, protecting natural resources, and improving quality of life. Employees enjoy a robust benefits package, details of which can be found at https://hr.ufl.edu/benefits/.
About Highlands County
Highlands County is in south-central Florida and is characterized by its rolling ridges, extensive pasturelands, and strong agricultural heritage. The county spans a large geographic area and supports a population of more than 100,000 residents, with growth centered around communities such as Sebring, Avon Park, and Lake Placid. Historically, Highlands County has been shaped by citrus production and cattle ranching, both of which remain central to the local economy.
Livestock agriculture is a dominant industry, with cow–calf operations, forage-based systems, and supporting agribusinesses playing a critical role in land use and economic stability. The county also contains numerous lakes and environmentally sensitive areas, requiring producers to balance productivity with responsible land management. The UF IFAS Extension Highlands County office serves as a trusted source of science-based education, supporting ranchers, landowners, and agricultural professionals through applied research, demonstrations, and direct technical assistance.
Required Qualifications:
- 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 animal science or a closely related field from an accredited college or university. Applicants without a completed degree will be considered if the degree will be earned by the start date of employment.
- Demonstrated technical expertise in animal science and livestock production systems.
- Self‑starting, energetic, and able to work effectively as part of a team.
- Strong written and verbal interpersonal and communication skills.
- Demonstrated resourcefulness, creativity, enthusiasm, and initiative in program development.
- Ability to establish and maintain effective partnerships and collaborative working relationships.
- Commitment to positive and proactive customer service.
- Ability to manage competing priorities and adapt to unexpected situations.
- Commitment to UF core values.
- Ability to work collaboratively with local producers, organizations, agencies, and UF IFAS Extension colleagues to promote agriculture.