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 leading land‑grant institution committed to academic excellence, scientific innovation, and statewide service. With a mission to improve lives and strengthen communities, the university advances education, scientific discovery, and public engagement across Florida and beyond. UF is nationally recognized for its research productivity, interdisciplinary collaboration, and impact on agriculture, health, environment, and the workforce. Employees benefit from a competitive compensation structure, strong retirement plans, professional advancement pathways, and a comprehensive package of health, wellness, and leave programs designed to support long‑term success. Information about employee benefits is available 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 full‑time, permanent status accruing Extension Agent position will serve Lake County with program leadership in Livestock. The faculty member will support beef cattle producers, forage and hay operations, pasture‑based systems, small ruminant producers, and equine enterprises. In addition, the position will strengthen agriculture‑focused youth programming aligned with livestock science, production practices, and workforce development. Approximately 30% of educational efforts are expected to support livestock-related learning opportunities for 4-H youth audiences through subject-matter expertise delivered in collaboration with the County 4-H Agent.

Program Development and Delivery

• Design, implement, and evaluate educational programs addressing beef cattle management, forage and hay production, pasture ecology, small ruminants, and equine systems to ensure producer needs guide program direction.
• Conduct applied research, demonstrations, and on‑farm trials that promote adoption of enhanced management practices and production efficiencies.
• Develop curricula, publications, and digital outreach tools to advance practical understanding of livestock and forage systems.

• Youth Livestock Education Support
  • Provide subject-matter expertise in animal science and livestock production to support youth educational experiences coordinated by the County 4-H Agent.
  • Coordinate and assist with related educational workshops, clinics, judging events, and project training related to livestock science and production.
  • Support development of livestock educational materials and learning opportunities that enhance agricultural knowledge and career awareness.

• Recruit, train, and guide volunteers in partnership with the 4‑H Agent to support youth and adult programming while ensuring adherence to Extension policies and youth safety standards.

Community Engagement and Collaboration

• Establish and maintain an agricultural advisory committee to ensure programming reflects community priorities and supports local agricultural development.
• Partner with county departments, producer organizations, state and federal agencies, agricultural associations, and community leaders to advance producer education and agricultural awareness.

• Recruit, train and utilize volunteers in building strong community programs.

Extension Operations and Professional Expectations

• Develop and manage grants, sponsorships, partnerships, and external funding to expand livestock and youth agricultural initiatives.
• Plan and deliver field days, workshops, certification trainings, and producer meetings in collaboration with colleagues and industry stakeholders.
• Participate in state and professional trainings, maintain up‑to‑date reporting and documentation, and follow all UF/IFAS Extension and county policies.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by the County Extension Director and District Extension Director.

About UF/IFAS Extension

UF/IFAS Extension serves as the statewide outreach and education arm of the university, translating scientific research into practical solutions for Florida residents, businesses, and agricultural industries. With offices in all 67 counties and numerous Research and Education Centers, Extension delivers science‑based programming in agriculture, natural resources, youth development, community development, and family well‑being. Faculty collaborate with producers, industry professionals, local governments, volunteers, and community organizations to address emerging issues and strengthen economic resilience. UF/IFAS Extension programs emphasize applied research, community engagement, and accessible learning opportunities that help residents make informed decisions, adopt improved practices, and prepare for future challenges.

The Extension model promotes innovation and collaboration across disciplines to support Florida’s food systems, land and water stewardship, and youth leadership development. With strong partnerships at the federal, state, and county levels, UF/IFAS Extension remains a statewide resource for high‑quality, research‑based education that fosters healthy people, productive agricultural systems, and vibrant communities. This position contributes directly to that mission by supporting livestock production and cultivating agricultural learning experiences for youth across Lake County.

About Lake County

Lake County is located in Central Florida and spans more than 1,150 square miles of rolling hills, farmland, and over 1,400 named lakes. Home to a population of more than 420,000 residents, the county blends rural landscapes with growing suburban communities and historic towns such as Tavares, Eustis, Clermont, and Mount Dora. The region has a rich agricultural heritage rooted in beef cattle production, citrus, equine enterprises, and forage systems. As population growth accelerates, agriculture remains an essential part of the county’s identity and economy.

Lake County’s geography supports livestock and forage operations across a range of soil types and grazing environments. Numerous county parks, conservation lands, and water resources also provide opportunities for educational programming related to stewardship and pasture management. UF/IFAS Extension Lake County, in cooperation with neighboring county offices and nearby Research and Education Centers throughout the Central District, strengthens local agricultural industries through research‑based programming, producer engagement, and partnerships with local organizations. These assets create an ideal environment for impactful Extension work focused on livestock and youth agricultural education.

Commensurate with Education and Experience

• A bachelor’s degree in animal science or a closely related agricultural discipline is required for Extension Agent I.
• A master’s degree or 50% completion of a master’s degree is required for Extension Agent II; candidates hired with a bachelor’s degree must make documented progress toward a master’s degree within six years, consistent with UF/IFAS Extension faculty criteria.
• Strong communication, teaching, leadership, and organizational skills.
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate with producers, volunteers, youth organizations, and community stakeholders.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and deliver timely program outcomes.
• Experience in educational program planning, teaching, evaluation, and reporting.
• Technological competency for program delivery, data management, and communication.
• Ability to obtain a Florida driver’s license and work evenings and weekends as required.
• Because youth involvement exceeds 5%, candidates must meet Level 2 DCF background screening requirements.
• Candidates must also have a commitment to UF core values.

• A master’s degree in animal science, agronomy, agricultural education, or a closely related discipline.
• A doctoral degree is preferred for advanced appointment levels.
• Experience with livestock production systems, forage and pasture management, agricultural instruction, or farm/ranch leadership.
• Demonstrated success planning and delivering agriculture‑focused programming for adults or youth.
• Skills in applied research, program evaluation, grant writing, and development of partnerships.
• Familiarity with digital outreach tools and social media strategies for educational communication.

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.