Extension Agent - III - Commercial Horticulture

Position: Extension Agent I - III - Commercial Horticulture
Classification

Title:

EXT AGENT I - III

Classification

Minimum Requirements:

Candidates shall hold a master's degree and/or bachelor's degree with relevant experience and accomplishments.

Job Description

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  or the Florida Relay System at  (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.

About UF

The University of Florida is a premier public land‑grant institution recognized nationally and internationally for excellence in teaching, research, and service. With a mission grounded in innovation, collaboration, and lifelong learning, UF serves the people of Florida and beyond by generating knowledge and preparing leaders to address complex societal challenges. Faculty and staff are united by a shared commitment to academic rigor, public service, and measurable impact.

About IFAS

The Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences is one of the most comprehensive land‑grant systems in the nation, integrating teaching, research, and Extension to support Florida's agricultural producers, natural resources, and communities. With faculty and staff located across the state, the Institute translates science into practical solutions that improve environmental stewardship, economic vitality, and quality of life.

About IFAS Extension

UF/IFAS Extension is the outreach arm of the Institute and operates as a partnership among federal, state, and county governments. Extension connects university research to local needs through science‑based education delivered in all 67 Florida counties. Extension faculty work directly with residents, businesses, industries, and local governments to address issues in agriculture, horticulture, natural resources, youth development, and…