Regional Specialized Agent II–IV Commercial Horticulture

Orange, CA - USA

Monthly Salary: Not Disclosed

Posted on: 2 days ago

Vacancies: 1 Vacancy

Job Summary

Classification Title:	RSA & Ext Agent II - IV
Classification Minimum Requirements:	Candidates shall hold a masters degree or 50% of hours completed towards a masters degree along with qualifying experience or accomplishments.
Job Description:	You Belong at a University Thats 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 or the Florida Relay System at (TDD) or visit Accessibility at UF. The Opportunity This Regional Specialized Agent IIIV position in Commercial Horticulture offers an opportunity to lead impactful programming across the UF/IFAS Extension Central District with a central focus on the nursery industry and related commercial horticulture enterprises. The position also supports urban agriculture efforts that utilize commercial production methods including controlledenvironment systems and market-oriented growing operations. Regional Leadership and Multi-County Support Lead Commercial Horticulture programming across multiple counties in the UF/IFAS Extension Central District with emphasis on container foliage ornamental and greenhouse nursery production. Support county Extension faculty by providing technical consultation in-service training program planning assistance and educational resources that enhance local horticulture programs. Develop and deliver research-based educational programs focused on plant production efficiency plant health regulatory requirements environmental stewardship and workforce development for commercial horticulture operations. Incorporate urban agriculture systems that align with commercial horticulture practices such as controlledenvironment agriculture hydroponic systems hightunnel production and market-focused urban farms. Applied Demonstration and Research Integration Collaborate with MREC and other UF/IFAS research faculty to translate applied research into practical recommendations demonstrations decisionsupport tools workshops and publications. Design or support applied demonstrations and trials addressing key issues such as pest and disease management automation technologies substrate innovations nutrient management irrigation and environmental controls and compliance with best management practices. Use results from applied demonstrations and research projects to strengthen Extension programming and share findings through field days technical bulletins fact sheets and digital channels. Industry and Stakeholder Engagement Build and maintain strong working relationships with nursery owners and managers greenhouse operators allied industry organizations regulatory agencies local governments community partners and service providers. Serve as a resource and liaison among county Extension faculty commodity groups and industry associations to address emerging challenges and coordinate responses to regional issues. Engage with urban agriculture practitioners whose operations use commercial horticulture methods providing technical guidance and connecting them with UF/IFAS Extension resources. Accountability Reporting and Resource Development Seek external funding through grants contracts sponsorships and fee-based programs to support educational initiatives demonstrations and technology adoption. Maintain accurate and timely records of program activities participation outcomes and impacts and report these to UF/IFAS Extension leadership and stakeholders. Align programming with UF/IFAS Extension Commercial Horticulture expectations statewide initiatives and district priorities and contribute to strategic planning and team efforts. The University of Florida is consistently ranked among the nations top public research universities recognized for its strong academic programs impactful research and extensive engagement across the state. As a landgrant institution the University of Florida is committed to teaching research and public service that advance Floridas economy support agricultural and natural resource systems and improve the quality of life for residents. Faculty and staff collaborate across disciplines to address complex challenges in food production environmental stewardship human health and community development ensuring that the universitys work leads to practical science-based solutions. About UF/IFAS The Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) is a cornerstone of this mission. UF/IFAS integrates research teaching and Extension to support Floridas agricultural and horticultural industries protect natural resources and strengthen communities. UF/IFAS scientists and educators work closely with producers business leaders policy makers and residents to generate and share knowledge that is timely relevant and grounded in rigorous research. UF/IFAS includes the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences the Florida Agricultural Experiment Station and UF/IFAS Extension as its statewide outreach component. About UF/IFAS Extension UF/IFAS Extension has offices in all 67 counties and operates multiple Research and Education Centers throughout Florida. Extension faculty interpret and deliver university research to meet local and regional needs designing educational programs conducting applied demonstrations and building relationships with individuals farms businesses organizations and agencies. Extension programs support agriculture natural resources youth development and family and consumer issues helping Florida communities respond to both immediate challenges and long-range priorities. Regional Specialized Agents are key to this work providing subjectmatter expertise across multiple counties strengthening county operations and aligning regional programming with statewide goals. University of Florida employees benefit from a competitive comprehensive package of benefits and support services. These include health insurance retirement plans paid leave employee assistance programs and familysupport resources as well as professional development opportunities that encourage continuous learning and career growth. Additional details about benefits can be found at: the UF/IFAS Extension Central District The UF/IFAS Extension Central District spans 11 counties: Flagler Hernando Lake Marion Orange Osceola Putnam Seminole St. Johns Sumter and Volusia. It includes several large metropolitan areas growing suburban communities productive agricultural corridors and significant conservation lands. The district is home to millions of residents and reflects Floridas ongoing population growth economic expansion and increasing demand for sound guidance on land use water resources and community development. County Extension offices throughout the UF/IFAS Extension Central District provide locally focused science-based programs that address horticulture agriculture family and consumer concerns youth development and environmental topics. These offices connect residents and industries to university research and serve as a primary access point for UF/IFAS resources. Commercial horticulture is a significant economic driver in this district particularly containerized greenhouse foliage and ornamental nursery production. Central Florida plays a vital role in statewide and national nursery output supported by innovations in irrigation efficiency automation environmental controls substrate technology and integrated pest management. The region has also experienced notable growth in controlledenvironment production systems and urban agriculture enterprises that adopt commercial horticulture practices at varying scales. The MidFlorida Research and Education Center (MREC) in Apopka enhances these efforts by providing access to applied research faculty expertise and specialized facilities that support ornamental and greenhouse production systems. While this Regional Specialized Agent position is housed at MREC its scope of work supports county operations and regional horticulture initiatives across the UF/IFAS Extension Central District. MREC functions as a collaborative and logistical base strengthening districtwide outreach applied demonstration and technical support.
Expected Salary:	Commensurate with Education and Experience
Required Qualifications:	Candidates must hold a masters degree in horticulture plant sciences agricultural sciences or a closely related field to be hired as a Regional Specialized Agent III or IV. The minimum requirement for an Extension Agent II is a masters degree or 50% of the masters degree completed. Candidates may be placed at Regional Specialized Agent II III or IV based on experience and UF/IFAS Extension criteria. Additional required qualifications include: Proven written and verbal communication skills demonstrated through publications presentations reports or other professional materials. Experience in planning teaching evaluating and reporting educational programs for clientele or stakeholder groups. Experience collaborating effectively with community partners such as developers homeowners association boards county departments industry partners and municipal groups. Proficiency with digital tools used for Extension instruction outreach and reporting such as Microsoft Teams Zoom webinar platforms social media tools learning management systems and UF/IFAS-approved reporting platforms. A valid drivers license and willingness to travel throughout the region to meet programming requirements. Ability to work evenings or weekends when needed based on the needs of the target audience. At least 5 years of land-grant university Extension or equivalent educational programming experience. For this Commercial Horticulture position required certifications include the Private Applicator and demonstration and research pesticide certification and the Green Industry/BMP certification obtained within six months of hire if not already held. Candidates must also have a commitment to UF core values.
Preferred:	A doctorate in horticulture plant sciences or a closely related field is preferred particularly for candidates seeking placement at Regional Specialized Agent III or IV. Experience working directly with Floridas nursery or ornamental production industries including familiarity with current technologies regulatory considerations and industry priorities. Demonstrated success leading multi-county or regional initiatives coordinating applied demonstrations or trials and integrating research findings into Extension programs. A record of producing Extension publications technical reports digital educational materials or professional presentations for commercial horticulture or related audiences. Experience using data metrics and feedback to refine programming and document outcomes and impacts. For this Commercial Horticulture program area preferred certifications include credentials such as Florida Nursery Growers and Landscape Association (FNGLA) Certified Horticulture Professional certification and relevant Commercial Pesticide Applicator licensure which support advanced technical credibility with horticulture and nursery clientele.
Special Instructions to Applicants:	Apply at Careers at UF by 11:55 p.m. (Eastern) of the posting end date and attach: Cover letter that states applicants interest in the position and qualifications relative to the credentials listed above Curriculum vitae Contact information (including email addresses) for 3 individuals willing to write letters of recommendation Selected candidate will be required to provide an official transcript to the hiring department upon hire.A transcript will not be considered official if a designation of Issued to Student is earned from an education institution outside of the United States are required to be evaluated by a professional credentialing service provider approved by National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES). Hiring is contingent upon eligibility to work in the US. The University of Florida is a public institution and subject to all requirements under Florida Sunshine and Public Record laws. The University and greater Gainesville community enjoy a variety of cultural events restaurants year-round outdoor recreational activities and social opportunities.
Health Assessment Required:	No

Required Experience:

Unclear Seniority

Classification Title:RSA & Ext Agent II - IVClassification Minimum Requirements:Candidates shall hold a masters degree or 50% of hours completed towards a masters degree along with qualifying experience or accomplishments.Job Description:You Belong at a University Thats Leading the WayThe Institute ...

Classification Title:	RSA & Ext Agent II - IV
Classification Minimum Requirements:	Candidates shall hold a masters degree or 50% of hours completed towards a masters degree along with qualifying experience or accomplishments.
Job Description:	You Belong at a University Thats 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 or the Florida Relay System at (TDD) or visit Accessibility at UF. The Opportunity This Regional Specialized Agent IIIV position in Commercial Horticulture offers an opportunity to lead impactful programming across the UF/IFAS Extension Central District with a central focus on the nursery industry and related commercial horticulture enterprises. The position also supports urban agriculture efforts that utilize commercial production methods including controlledenvironment systems and market-oriented growing operations. Regional Leadership and Multi-County Support Lead Commercial Horticulture programming across multiple counties in the UF/IFAS Extension Central District with emphasis on container foliage ornamental and greenhouse nursery production. Support county Extension faculty by providing technical consultation in-service training program planning assistance and educational resources that enhance local horticulture programs. Develop and deliver research-based educational programs focused on plant production efficiency plant health regulatory requirements environmental stewardship and workforce development for commercial horticulture operations. Incorporate urban agriculture systems that align with commercial horticulture practices such as controlledenvironment agriculture hydroponic systems hightunnel production and market-focused urban farms. Applied Demonstration and Research Integration Collaborate with MREC and other UF/IFAS research faculty to translate applied research into practical recommendations demonstrations decisionsupport tools workshops and publications. Design or support applied demonstrations and trials addressing key issues such as pest and disease management automation technologies substrate innovations nutrient management irrigation and environmental controls and compliance with best management practices. Use results from applied demonstrations and research projects to strengthen Extension programming and share findings through field days technical bulletins fact sheets and digital channels. Industry and Stakeholder Engagement Build and maintain strong working relationships with nursery owners and managers greenhouse operators allied industry organizations regulatory agencies local governments community partners and service providers. Serve as a resource and liaison among county Extension faculty commodity groups and industry associations to address emerging challenges and coordinate responses to regional issues. Engage with urban agriculture practitioners whose operations use commercial horticulture methods providing technical guidance and connecting them with UF/IFAS Extension resources. Accountability Reporting and Resource Development Seek external funding through grants contracts sponsorships and fee-based programs to support educational initiatives demonstrations and technology adoption. Maintain accurate and timely records of program activities participation outcomes and impacts and report these to UF/IFAS Extension leadership and stakeholders. Align programming with UF/IFAS Extension Commercial Horticulture expectations statewide initiatives and district priorities and contribute to strategic planning and team efforts. The University of Florida is consistently ranked among the nations top public research universities recognized for its strong academic programs impactful research and extensive engagement across the state. As a landgrant institution the University of Florida is committed to teaching research and public service that advance Floridas economy support agricultural and natural resource systems and improve the quality of life for residents. Faculty and staff collaborate across disciplines to address complex challenges in food production environmental stewardship human health and community development ensuring that the universitys work leads to practical science-based solutions. About UF/IFAS The Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) is a cornerstone of this mission. UF/IFAS integrates research teaching and Extension to support Floridas agricultural and horticultural industries protect natural resources and strengthen communities. UF/IFAS scientists and educators work closely with producers business leaders policy makers and residents to generate and share knowledge that is timely relevant and grounded in rigorous research. UF/IFAS includes the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences the Florida Agricultural Experiment Station and UF/IFAS Extension as its statewide outreach component. About UF/IFAS Extension UF/IFAS Extension has offices in all 67 counties and operates multiple Research and Education Centers throughout Florida. Extension faculty interpret and deliver university research to meet local and regional needs designing educational programs conducting applied demonstrations and building relationships with individuals farms businesses organizations and agencies. Extension programs support agriculture natural resources youth development and family and consumer issues helping Florida communities respond to both immediate challenges and long-range priorities. Regional Specialized Agents are key to this work providing subjectmatter expertise across multiple counties strengthening county operations and aligning regional programming with statewide goals. University of Florida employees benefit from a competitive comprehensive package of benefits and support services. These include health insurance retirement plans paid leave employee assistance programs and familysupport resources as well as professional development opportunities that encourage continuous learning and career growth. Additional details about benefits can be found at: the UF/IFAS Extension Central District The UF/IFAS Extension Central District spans 11 counties: Flagler Hernando Lake Marion Orange Osceola Putnam Seminole St. Johns Sumter and Volusia. It includes several large metropolitan areas growing suburban communities productive agricultural corridors and significant conservation lands. The district is home to millions of residents and reflects Floridas ongoing population growth economic expansion and increasing demand for sound guidance on land use water resources and community development. County Extension offices throughout the UF/IFAS Extension Central District provide locally focused science-based programs that address horticulture agriculture family and consumer concerns youth development and environmental topics. These offices connect residents and industries to university research and serve as a primary access point for UF/IFAS resources. Commercial horticulture is a significant economic driver in this district particularly containerized greenhouse foliage and ornamental nursery production. Central Florida plays a vital role in statewide and national nursery output supported by innovations in irrigation efficiency automation environmental controls substrate technology and integrated pest management. The region has also experienced notable growth in controlledenvironment production systems and urban agriculture enterprises that adopt commercial horticulture practices at varying scales. The MidFlorida Research and Education Center (MREC) in Apopka enhances these efforts by providing access to applied research faculty expertise and specialized facilities that support ornamental and greenhouse production systems. While this Regional Specialized Agent position is housed at MREC its scope of work supports county operations and regional horticulture initiatives across the UF/IFAS Extension Central District. MREC functions as a collaborative and logistical base strengthening districtwide outreach applied demonstration and technical support.
Expected Salary:	Commensurate with Education and Experience
Required Qualifications:	Candidates must hold a masters degree in horticulture plant sciences agricultural sciences or a closely related field to be hired as a Regional Specialized Agent III or IV. The minimum requirement for an Extension Agent II is a masters degree or 50% of the masters degree completed. Candidates may be placed at Regional Specialized Agent II III or IV based on experience and UF/IFAS Extension criteria. Additional required qualifications include: Proven written and verbal communication skills demonstrated through publications presentations reports or other professional materials. Experience in planning teaching evaluating and reporting educational programs for clientele or stakeholder groups. Experience collaborating effectively with community partners such as developers homeowners association boards county departments industry partners and municipal groups. Proficiency with digital tools used for Extension instruction outreach and reporting such as Microsoft Teams Zoom webinar platforms social media tools learning management systems and UF/IFAS-approved reporting platforms. A valid drivers license and willingness to travel throughout the region to meet programming requirements. Ability to work evenings or weekends when needed based on the needs of the target audience. At least 5 years of land-grant university Extension or equivalent educational programming experience. For this Commercial Horticulture position required certifications include the Private Applicator and demonstration and research pesticide certification and the Green Industry/BMP certification obtained within six months of hire if not already held. Candidates must also have a commitment to UF core values.
Preferred:	A doctorate in horticulture plant sciences or a closely related field is preferred particularly for candidates seeking placement at Regional Specialized Agent III or IV. Experience working directly with Floridas nursery or ornamental production industries including familiarity with current technologies regulatory considerations and industry priorities. Demonstrated success leading multi-county or regional initiatives coordinating applied demonstrations or trials and integrating research findings into Extension programs. A record of producing Extension publications technical reports digital educational materials or professional presentations for commercial horticulture or related audiences. Experience using data metrics and feedback to refine programming and document outcomes and impacts. For this Commercial Horticulture program area preferred certifications include credentials such as Florida Nursery Growers and Landscape Association (FNGLA) Certified Horticulture Professional certification and relevant Commercial Pesticide Applicator licensure which support advanced technical credibility with horticulture and nursery clientele.
Special Instructions to Applicants:	Apply at Careers at UF by 11:55 p.m. (Eastern) of the posting end date and attach: Cover letter that states applicants interest in the position and qualifications relative to the credentials listed above Curriculum vitae Contact information (including email addresses) for 3 individuals willing to write letters of recommendation Selected candidate will be required to provide an official transcript to the hiring department upon hire.A transcript will not be considered official if a designation of Issued to Student is earned from an education institution outside of the United States are required to be evaluated by a professional credentialing service provider approved by National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES). Hiring is contingent upon eligibility to work in the US. The University of Florida is a public institution and subject to all requirements under Florida Sunshine and Public Record laws. The University and greater Gainesville community enjoy a variety of cultural events restaurants year-round outdoor recreational activities and social opportunities.
Health Assessment Required:	No