Community Gardens Program Specialist

Work Location
: 1303 17th Street West, Palmetto, Florida 34221

Work Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Expected Starting Hourly Range: $23.67 - $29.59

Position is responsible for assisting with the delivery of Extension education programs within the Agriculture and Extension Service. The incumbent is responsible for ensuring the quality of the instruction, developing and following the lesson outlines, and maintaining the safety of program participants at all times. The Specialist plays a key role in representing the Division.

Employment screenings, as outlined in the Personnel Policy, Rules, and Procedures Manual, will be conducted in compliance with applicable federal and Florida Laws.

Working Conditions

The work environment may include exposure to high noise levels while performing certain essential job functions. The position requires the ability to lift and move objects weighing up to 50 pounds independently and up to 100 pounds with assistance, with or without reasonable accommodation. Work may involve strenuous physical activity under varying climatic conditions and in both indoor and outdoor environments

Note: Work schedule may include weekends and/or early/late hours and periodically include weeklong overnights (4-H).

Tasks are of more than average difficulty and require that the employee exercise reasonable initiative and independent, judgment. Work with individuals or groups (ages 5 and older) in a variety of settings and weather conditions. Dynamic and often fast-paced environment with potentially stressful situations. Works with the general public, including children, ages 5-18.

Essential Functions
These are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work performed. The omission of specific duties does not exclude them from a position.

Area of Assignment: Community Gardens

Works collaboratively with residents and community organizations to establish and support successful community gardens throughout Manatee County. Serves as a liaison among volunteers, partner organizations, and local government to identify suitable garden locations and strengthen partnerships. Provides ongoing support to garden managers through research-based education and resources offered by the Agriculture & Extension Service and connects prospective gardeners with existing community garden opportunities.

Oversees one or more volunteer programs, including recruitment, training, placement, and scheduling. Develops and maintains volunteer program policies and procedures, ensuring compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and organizational standards. Maintains accurate and detailed records of volunteer information, assignments, availability, and skill sets to support efficient program operations.

Plans, develops, markets, schedules, and delivers public educational programs, including presentations, workshops, exhibits, and special projects. Evaluates the effectiveness of educational initiatives to ensure continuous program improvement.

Represents assigned programs at outreach events by staffing booths, setting up and breaking down displays, distributing educational and promotional materials, and engaging in public relations activities. Builds and maintains collaborative relationships with community groups, agencies, and the public through outreach, networking, and partnership development.

Coordinates with staff, volunteers, Extension faculty, and governmental agencies to enhance programming and expand community impact. Ensures adherence to all safety procedures to protect staff, volunteers, and program participants.

The Program Specialist plays a key role in administering, promoting, and delivering Extension education programs within the Agriculture & Extension Division, with a strong emphasis on volunteer program development and management. This position is responsible for maintaining instructional quality, preparing and following lesson plans, and ensuring a safe learning environment. The Program Specialist also serves as a primary representative of the division, fostering community engagement and providing horticultural and entomological expertise to program participants, volunteers, and the public.

Assists Extension Agent in the administration and promotion of assigned program.

Coordinates the development, marketing, scheduling, planning, and delivery of public educational presentations, workshops, exhibits, projects, and evaluates effectiveness of educational components.

Coordinates with staff, volunteers, Extension…