Extension Agent I-III - Commercial Horticulture

This is a 12-month, full-time, permanent status-accruing Extension Agent position jointly funded by UF IFAS Extension and Orange County.

About the Role

The successful candidate will lead a comprehensive Commercial Horticulture program serving green industry professionals and supporting workforce needs throughout Orange County.

Responsibilities

Program Development and Delivery

• 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

Stakeholder Engagement and Partnerships

• 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

Program Management and Evaluation

• 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

4-H Youth Development (Minimum 5% Appointment)

• 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

Extension Service Expectations

• 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

Requirements

• A bachelor’s degree in horticulture, plant science, or a closely related field; candidates hired at the bachelor’s level are expected to make significant progress toward a master’s degree within the first six years of employment
• Demonstrated knowledge of commercial horticulture systems including plant production, pest management, and landscape operations
• Ability to develop, deliver, and evaluate educational programs for adult and youth audiences
• Strong written and verbal communication skills suitable for technical and public audiences
• Proficiency with computer applications, program reporting systems, and digital communication tools
• Ability to manage multiple responsibilities, maintain accurate records, and meet program accountability expectations
• Ability to obtain a valid driver’s license and willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends
• Successful completion of Level 2 background screening and certification through the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) is required due to youth engagement responsibilities
• Commitment to UF core values
• Required certifications for Commercial Horticulture include Green Industries Best Management Practices training and appropriate pesticide licensure

Preferred Qualifications

• A master’s degree in horticulture, plant sciences, or a related discipline
• Experience working with commercial horticulture industries such as landscape maintenance, nursery production, or pest management services
• Experience developing and delivering workforce training or industry certification programs
• Knowledge of arboriculture practices, including tree care, pruning, and plant health management within commercial landscapes
• Possession of, or ability to obtain, International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) certification
• Demonstrated success in securing extramural funding and managing program budgets
• Strong ability to build partnerships with industry stakeholders, agencies, and organizations
• Preferred certifications include International Society of Arboriculture certification and Commercial Pesticide Applicator credentials

About UF

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.

About IFAS Extension

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.

Benefits

The University of Florida provides a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement options, and professional development opportunities. Learn more at UF Benefits.

About Orange County

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 transitioned into a highly urbanized region supported by a strong commercial horticulture sector. The green industry includes landscape maintenance firms, nursery and plant production operations, arboriculture services, and pest management companies. The region’s subtropical climate allows for year-round plant production while also presenting ongoing challenges related to pest management, nutrient applications, and regulatory compliance.

UF IFAS Extension Orange County operates a centralized education facility and collaborates regionally to deliver programming that supports workforce development, regulatory training, and applied horticultural practices tailored to commercial audiences.