Extension Agent I-III - Commercial Horticulture

Extension Agent I-III

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

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.

This is a 12-month, full-time, permanent status-accruing Extension Agent position jointly funded by UF IFAS Extension and Orange County. The successful candidate will lead a comprehensive Commercial Horticulture program serving green industry professionals and supporting workforce needs throughout the county.

Design, implement, and evaluate research-based educational programs focused on Green Industries Best Management Practices (GI-BMP), Integrated Pest Management (IPM), fertilizer application, diagnostic services, and regulatory compliance.

Conduct pesticide applicator training, certification programs, and continuing education opportunities for commercial clientele.

Provide diagnostic support related to plant health, pest identification, disease management, and nutrient deficiencies.

Deliver technical workshops, demonstrations, and applied training programs for landscape professionals, nursery operators, and pest management personnel.

Establish and maintain an advisory committee to assess industry needs and guide program priorities.

Collaborate with regulatory agencies, industry associations, and local governments to support compliance and workforce development initiatives.

Partner with Extension specialists and faculty to strengthen program quality and reach.

Develop and implement annual plans of work and report measurable program impacts.

Maintain accurate records, manage program resources, and ensure accountability.

Seek extramural funding and manage grants supporting Commercial Horticulture initiatives.

Develop educational materials including fact sheets, presentations, and industry communications.

Develop and deliver horticulture-related educational programming supporting the 4-H Youth Development program.

Integrate plant science and green industry career awareness into youth activities through demonstrations, workshops, and hands-on learning.

Collaborate with the 4-H agent to incorporate Commercial Horticulture topics into youth programming and events.

Provide technical expertise for youth horticulture projects, contests, and skill-building activities.

Promote awareness of career opportunities in landscaping, nursery production, and pest management industries.

Respond to clientele inquiries in a timely and professional manner.

Participate in professional development and industry engagement.

Contribute to overall county Extension programming as assigned.

The University of Florida is a nationally recognized land-grant institution committed to excellence in teaching, research, and public service. As Florida's flagship university, it plays a vital role in advancing knowledge, fostering innovation, and supporting economic development across the state. The University's foundational values include collaboration, integrity, responsiveness, and a strong commitment to lifelong learning, allowing faculty and staff to make meaningful contributions to communities locally and globally.

UF IFAS Extension represents a statewide partnership between federal, state, and county governments, delivering science-based education to Florida residents. Through its network of faculty and staff in all 67 counties, Extension translates university research into practical solutions that enhance agricultural productivity, environmental stewardship, and community well-being. UF IFAS Extension faculty are expected to design and deliver educational programs grounded in applied research, measure program impacts, and maintain strong stakeholder relationships.

The organization emphasizes accountability, innovation, and responsiveness to local priorities. Faculty also engage in professional development and collaborate with specialists and colleagues statewide to ensure programming reflects current science and industry needs.

Orange County is located in Central Florida and encompasses approximately 1,000 square miles, with a population exceeding 1.5 million residents. The county includes the City of Orlando and surrounding municipalities, making it one of the most rapidly growing metropolitan areas in the state. This growth continues to drive expansion in residential, commercial, and infrastructure development, increasing demand for professional landscape management and green industry services.

Historically known for citrus production, Orange County has…