Extension Agent for Sustainable Agriculture

1 week ago

Gainesville, Florida, United States InsideHigherEd Full time


Director of County Extension Services - Extension Agent II - IV in Sustainable Agriculture

Job Classification: Permanent Faculty Position
Location: Not Specified
Categories: Agricultural Sciences, Environmental Studies
Department: Not Specified

Position Overview

Join a Leading Institution Committed to Excellence

The University of Florida (UF) stands as a premier institution in Florida, dedicated to its mission of education, research, and community service. The Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences promotes an inclusive environment that values diversity and collaboration. We encourage candidates who can enhance this environment through their professional contributions.

Position Summary

The Florida Cooperative Extension Service operates as a collaborative effort among state, federal, and local governments. Our County Extension faculty are tasked with delivering high-quality, research-driven education to promote healthy communities and sustainable practices. We aim to empower Floridians in addressing agricultural, environmental, and community challenges.

We are seeking a dynamic and proactive individual to fill a full-time Extension Agent position, who will also assume the role of County Extension Director (CED). This position requires strong leadership in the agent's area of expertise to develop, implement, and assess educational programs tailored to the diverse needs of the county's population. The role will focus on small farms, emphasizing both profitability and effective land management practices. The Extension Agent's responsibilities will constitute 75% of the role, while the CED duties will comprise no more than 20%.

Key Responsibilities as an Extension Agent:
  • Develop, implement, and assess educational initiatives based on Best Management Practices (BMP) that promote sustainability and efficiency for clientele in the county.
  • Create and evaluate innovative educational programs that support local landowners and small farm producers.
  • Conduct assessments to identify community needs and establish program priorities, including forming an advisory committee to guide program development.
  • Collaborate with colleagues to design and deliver educational programs, both virtually and in-person, to meet community needs.
  • Explore funding opportunities through events, sponsorships, and grants while ensuring fiscal accountability.
  • Promote educational initiatives through various media channels to enhance community engagement and awareness of Extension's mission.

Key Responsibilities as County Extension Director:
  • Supervise and mentor county faculty and staff.
  • Oversee the operational aspects of the Extension office, including financial management and compliance.
  • Work closely with county officials to secure resources and support for Extension initiatives.
  • Develop and implement a strategic plan that aligns with the goals of the Extension program and strengthens community partnerships.
  • Engage with community leaders and stakeholders to foster collaboration and support for Extension programs.
  • Lead and maintain an advisory committee that reflects the demographics of the county.
  • Ensure adherence to all institutional policies and provide guidance to faculty and staff in program management.
  • Collaborate with district leadership to enhance the impact of Extension services across the region.
  • Assume additional responsibilities as assigned to support the overall mission of the Extension program.

Qualifications:

Required:
  • A master's degree in agriculture, agronomy, animal sciences, or plant sciences from an accredited institution.
  • A minimum of five years of relevant professional experience in Extension or a related field.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
  • A commitment to providing excellent service to the community.
  • Demonstrated leadership and collaborative skills with diverse audiences.
  • Ability to obtain a valid driver's license.
  • Flexibility in work hours, including the ability to travel and work evenings or weekends as needed.
  • Willingness to reside in the county or nearby area.

Preferred:
  • Previous experience in a County Extension Director role or similar.
  • Experience in health-related Extension programs.
  • Ability to foster a collaborative team environment and manage multiple priorities.
  • Experience in office management, budgeting, and fiscal oversight.
  • Experience in volunteer management and support.
  • Technological proficiency for communication and program management.
  • Strong leadership and problem-solving capabilities.
  • Familiarity with navigating political environments.
  • Experience in vision creation and team engagement.

Application Instructions:

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter detailing their qualifications, a resume or CV, and unofficial transcripts. Additional documents, including reference forms, may be submitted separately. Selected candidates will be required to provide official transcripts upon hire.

The University of Florida is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace.

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