Ext Agent I - II

Candidates shall hold a master’s degree and/or bachelor’s degree with relevant experience and accomplishments.

You Belong at a University That’s Leading the Way

The University of Florida is a nationally recognized land-grant institution dedicated to advancing teaching, research, and statewide service. As a top-tier public university, UF supports faculty and staff through outstanding resources, a collaborative environment, and a benefits package designed to promote well‑being, professional growth, and long-term financial stability. More information about UF’s comprehensive benefits can be found here.

The Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF IFAS) 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 permanent status accruing Extension Agent I or Extension Agent II position in Family & Consumer Sciences / Rural Health will lead educational programming designed to support healthy living, household stability, and rural community health throughout Putnam County. The faculty member will provide research-based information to adults, families, and community organizations, with approximately 5% of time dedicated to youth engagement through school-based programs, community events, and collaborative initiatives.

Program Development, Delivery, and Evaluation

• Develop and implement Family & Consumer Sciences programs with an emphasis on rural community health, chronic disease prevention, nutrition education, food safety, and household well‑being.
• Prioritize programming efforts based on the Florida Department of Health (FDOH) Community Health Assessment for Putnam County and collaborate with the local health department on relevant education and outreach programs.
• Conduct ongoing needs assessments to identify emerging rural health challenges such as nutrition access, chronic disease prevalence, and gaps in health information.
• Deliver programs through workshops, demonstrations, community education events, and outreach activities in settings such as community centers, senior facilities, schools, faith-based organizations, and agricultural venues.
• Collaborate extensively with the Putnam County Health Department to co-develop community health initiatives, align with local health improvement plans, and enhance rural health programming.
• Evaluate programs using UF IFAS Extension frameworks to measure outcomes and ensure alignment with county priorities.

Community Engagement and Partnerships

• Strengthen partnerships with the Putnam County Health Department, rural health clinics, food access organizations, senior service agencies, and local schools to enhance community health outcomes.
• Participate in coalitions, advisory groups, and rural health initiatives that support wellness, food safety, and financial stability.
• Serve as a resource for evidence‑based guidance on nutrition, family budgeting, safe food handling, and rural health concerns.

Volunteer and Resource Development

• Recruit and develop volunteers to support educational programming and outreach within rural communities.
• Pursue grants, sponsorships, and fee-based opportunities to expand program reach and sustainability.

Professional Contribution and County Support

• Engage in statewide and regional professional development for Family & Consumer Sciences faculty.
• Support cross-program collaboration within the Putnam County Extension office.
• Maintain accurate reporting and ensure compliance with UF IFAS Extension and Putnam County BOCC standards.

About UF IFAS Extension

UF IFAS Extension is the community engagement arm of the University of Florida. Its mission is to translate university research into practical education that strengthens Florida’s households, industries, and communities. With a network of county Extension offices, research centers, and statewide specialists, UF IFAS Extension delivers programing that addresses local needs, improves quality of life, and supports informed decision-making. Extension professionals work closely with county governments, partner organizations, and state agencies to build local capacity and ensure Floridians have access to timely, research-driven solutions. Faculty are supported by an extensive system of specialists, colleagues, and professional development resources that encourage innovation, continuous learning, and meaningful engagement with communities across the state.

About Putnam County

Putnam County is a rural county located in northeastern Florida, covering approximately 827 square miles with a population of roughly 73,000 residents. Positioned between Gainesville, Jacksonville, St. Augustine, and Daytona Beach, the county is characterized by its agricultural roots, historic communities, and natural features. The St. Johns River borders the eastern portion of the county, shaping local recreation, ecological systems, and community identity.

Agriculture plays a central role in Putnam County, with production activities such as cattle, forage, vegetables, and ornamental nurseries contributing to the local economy. The county’s rural setting influences access to health services, transportation, and food systems, creating important opportunities for Extension programming in community health and family well‑being. The UF IFAS Extension Putnam County office collaborates closely with regional resources including the UF IFAS Hastings Agricultural Extension Center, the Putnam County Health Department, and nearby county Extension offices to support research-based outreach and education that addresses agriculture, youth development, natural resources, and community health.

Commensurate with Education and Experience

• A bachelor’s degree in family and consumer sciences, nutrition, health education, human development, or a related field is required for Extension Agent I.
• A master’s degree or 50% progress toward a master’s degree in one of these fields is required for Extension Agent II.
• Because this position teaches food safety, ServSafe certification within the first year of employment.
• Evidence of strong communication skills suited to community-based instruction
• Demonstrated ability to work cooperatively with county government and community partners
• Capability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and maintain accurate records
• Willingness to travel throughout Putnam County and work occasional evenings or weekends to meet programming needs
• Ability to interpret health, nutrition, and demographic data to support program development
• Youth involvement is 5%. Since Putnam County Extension is a small office, all faculty undergo a Level 2 DCF background screening.
• Candidates must also have a commitment to UF core values.

• Experience working in rural community health, wellness promotion, food safety, financial management, or health-related outreach.
• Knowledge of rural health disparities, nutrition access issues, and chronic disease prevention.
• Experience collaborating with health departments, rural clinics, schools, or community health coalitions.
• Spanish‑English bilingual skills are preferred due to the language needs present in Putnam County communities.
• Experience securing grants or community-based funding.

Apply at Careers at UF by 11:55 p.m. (Eastern) of the posting end date, and attach:

• Cover letter that states applicant’s 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 visible.  Degrees 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.