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 4H Extension Agent opportunity in Sumter County.
State Specialized Agent II–IV & Associate Program Leader - 4-H Youth Development (540052)
-
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
Central District
Sumter County (4H Campaign) - Bushnell FL - Extension Agent - 4H Youth Development (538873)
Express interest at Careers at UF
-
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 is a full‑time, 12-month, permanent status accruing Extension Agent position serving UF/IFAS Extension in Sumter County and based at the Extension office in Bushnell, Florida. The Extension Agent will provide leadership for the county’s 4‑H Youth Development program and will design, implement, and evaluate educational programs that promote positive youth development for children and adolescents ages 5–18.
The Extension Agent will work collaboratively with local citizens, volunteers, schools, county and state Extension colleagues, and community organizations to address identified youth needs. Programming will align with state and national 4‑H priorities, including civic engagement, healthy living, and science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. The position requires strong organizational skills, effective communication, and the ability to manage multiple program components simultaneously.
Program Development and Delivery
- Plan, deliver, and evaluate 4‑H Youth Development programs through community clubs, special‑interest clubs, school enrichment, camps, and competitive events.
- Conduct needs assessments to guide program priorities reflective of county conditions.
- Develop, adapt, and deliver educational materials and non‑technical publications.
Volunteer and Organizational Leadership
- Recruit, train, support, and recognize adult and youth volunteers.
- Maintain and lead an effective county 4‑H Association to guide program direction and represent community needs.
- Ensure compliance with all Florida 4‑H youth protection policies.
Administration and Reporting
- Manage enrollments, records, communications, and risk management procedures.
- Develop annual plans of work and reports of accomplishment.
- Seek and manage financial resources in accordance with UF/IFAS Extension policies.
Professional Engagement
- Develop subject‑matter expertise to support multi‑county or district programming.
- Participate in professional development and collaborative Extension initiatives.
- Perform other duties that support the overall Extension program as assigned by the County Extension Director.
Minimum Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree (Extension Agent I), master’s degree or at least 50% progress toward a master’s degree (Extension Agent II), or master’s degree (Extension Agent III) from an accredited institution in youth development, education, agriculture, animal science, or a closely related field.
- Demonstrated ability to work effectively with youth, volunteers, and community partners.
- Strong written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills.
- Ability to plan, prioritize, and manage multiple responsibilities.
- Commitment to providing high‑quality educational programming and customer service.
- Willingness to work evenings, weekends, and occasional overnight travel.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Florida driver’s license.
- Candidates must also have a commitment to UF core values.
Youth Contact Requirement:
Because this position involves direct contact with youth exceeding five percent (5%) of assigned duties, the selected candidate must successfully complete and maintain a Florida Department of Children and Families Level 2 background screening in accordance with Florida Statutes and University policy. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of the screening process and continued eligibility throughout employment.Preferred Qualifications
- Master’s degree (Extension Agent I or II) or doctoral degree (Extension Agent III) in a related discipline.
- Experience designing, teaching, and evaluating youth education programs.
- Experience managing volunteer systems and youth organizations.
- Demonstrated ability to obtain and manage program funding.
- Experience working collaboratively with schools, community organizations, and local government.
Further Information
About IFAS
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.
About IFAS Extension
UF/IFAS Extension is the outreach arm of the Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences and operates through a federal, state, and county partnership. UF/IFAS Extension translates research‑based knowledge into practical education that supports youth development, strengthens families, enhances agricultural viability, and builds community capacity. Extension professionals work collaboratively with local partners to provide science‑based education that improves quality of life across Florida.
UF/IFAS Extension maintains an office in each of Florida’s 67 counties and employs a statewide network of Extension Agents who deliver locally relevant programming while contributing to regional and statewide initiatives. Employees benefit from competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits, and ongoing professional development opportunities. A full description of benefits is available at https://hr.ufl.edu/benefits.
About Sumter County
Sumter County is located in central Florida and encompasses more than 540 square miles of rural, agricultural, and developing communities. The county has experienced steady population growth in recent years, with a population exceeding 130,000 residents. Agriculture remains an important component of the local economy, while expanding residential development has increased demand for youth programs, leadership development, and community engagement opportunities.
The county includes public school systems, youth‑serving organizations, civic groups, and community partners that collaborate closely with UF/IFAS Extension. The Sumter County 4‑H program serves youth ages 5–18 through clubs, camps, school enrichment, competitive events, and leadership opportunities that support life‑skill development and workforce readiness. The UF/IFAS Extension office in Bushnell serves as a central hub for educational programming and partnerships, working closely with county government, volunteers, and community stakeholders to address local needs.
To express interest in this position, please click here.
Southwest District
Lee County - Ft Myers, FL - Extension Agent I – III - Commercial Horticulture (540018)
-
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.
Manatee County - Extension Agent I–III - Commercial Horticulture - Vegetables and Fruit Production (540025)
Closing date: June 21, 2026 at 11:55 PM Eastern Time
-
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 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.
About 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.
About IFAS
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.
About IFAS Extension
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.
Learn more about UF benefits at: https://hr.ufl.edu/benefits/
About Manatee County
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.
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.