Regional Specialized Agent II–IV - Commercial Horticulture

Classification Title:

RSA & Ext Agent II - IV

Classification Minimum Requirements:

Candidates shall hold a master’s degree or 50% of hours completed towards a master’s degree along with qualifying experience or accomplishments.

Job Description:

You Belong at a University That’s 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 352-392-2477 or the Florida Relay System at 800-955-8771 (TDD) or visit Accessibility at UF.

The Opportunity

This Regional Specialized Agent II–IV 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 controlled‑environment 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 controlled‑environment agriculture, hydroponic systems, high‑tunnel 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, decision‑support 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 nation’s top public research universities, recognized for its strong academic programs, impactful research, and extensive engagement across the state. As a land‑grant institution, the University of Florida is committed to teaching, research, and public service that advance Florida’s economy, support agricultural and natural resource systems, and improve the quality of life for residents. Faculty and staff collaborate across disciplines to address compl