Ext Agent I - II

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

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 position will serve as Extension Agent I or Extension Agent II in the Family & Consumer Science program area. The successful candidate will lead educational programming aimed at strengthening financial capability, supporting homeownership readiness, improving food safety knowledge, and advancing food entrepreneurship throughout St. Lucie County. The position includes 5% youth involvement and therefore requires a Level 2 DCF background screening.

Program Development and Delivery

• Develop, implement, and evaluate Family & Consumer Science educational programs tailored to local needs.
• Allocate approximately 55% of effort toward financial capability programs, including budgeting, credit building, saving strategies, managing personal financial resources, and preparing individuals and families for homeownership.
• Allocate approximately 40% of effort toward supporting beginning and established cottage food operators and food entrepreneurs. Topics include starting a food business, food safety requirements, labeling and packaging, regulatory compliance, and small‑business financial management.
• Deliver classes, workshops, consultations, and technical support using research‑based curricula and established Extension methodologies.
• Ensure program accessibility for urban and rural audiences and adapt delivery methods to meet changing community needs.

Community Engagement and Partnerships

• Collaborate with county agencies, housing organizations, financial resource networks, food entrepreneurship groups, business development partners, and public health agencies.
• Participate in advisory groups, committees, or community coalitions related to financial education, family well‑being, and small food business development.
• Secure external support for programs through grants, sponsorships, collaborations, and fee‑based services when appropriate.

Program Administration and Communication

• Manage program budgets, maintain required documentation, and prepare reports reflecting program outcomes and impacts.
• Develop communication materials, outreach strategies, and promotional content to increase program visibility.
• Maintain a flexible work schedule, including evenings and weekends, as required by programming needs.

About UF

The University of Florida is a leading public land‑grant institution known for its academic excellence, scientific advancement, and statewide engagement. The university delivers research, education, and public service that strengthen communities and support Florida’s economic vitality. Faculty and staff benefit from a comprehensive suite of resources that promote professional growth, well‑being, and long-term career development. Employees have access to extensive health plans, retirement options, and professional services designed to support both personal and workplace success. Additional details are available here.

About IFAS Extension

Extension serves as the statewide outreach and engagement enterprise of the University of Florida. Through applied research and practical education, Extension brings science‑based information to individuals, families, businesses, and communities throughout the state. Extension programs span community resource development, family well‑being, financial management, agriculture, environmental stewardship, and health education. The mission is carried out through a coordinated network of county Extension offices, regional and statewide program specialists, and research facilities that translate scientific discoveries into hands‑on learning opportunities. Extension professionals collaborate with local governments, agencies, and partners to address emerging challenges, support community goals, and improve quality of life for Florida residents.

Extension programs equip individuals and families with knowledge related to nutrition, chronic disease prevention, financial capability, food safety, home management, and community resource strategies. The organization prioritizes local needs, ensuring that all educational activities reflect relevant research and are tailored to support long‑term community resilience. The work is practical, accessible, and grounded in the university’s commitment to serving the people of Florida.

About St. Lucie County

St. Lucie County is situated along Florida’s Treasure Coast and spans approximately 572 square miles of coastal, agricultural, and suburban communities. With a population exceeding 360,000 residents, the county continues to grow steadily due to strong residential development, business expansion, and its strategic location along the Atlantic coast. Fort Pierce, the county seat, is one of Florida’s oldest cities and is known for its historic waterfront, agricultural contributions, and strong community heritage. Port St. Lucie, one of the fastest‑growing municipalities in the state, offers extensive amenities, thriving business corridors, and well‑developed neighborhoods.

Agriculture remains an important economic driver in St. Lucie County, with citrus, cattle, nurseries, and specialty crops playing key roles. The county also benefits from proximity to major research and Extension resources, including the Extension office and the Indian River Research and Education Center in Fort Pierce. Together, these institutions support community well‑being, small business development, agricultural production, and food entrepreneurship across the region. The county’s mix of urban growth and agricultural heritage creates wide opportunities for family and consumer science programs that enhance financial stability, homeownership, healthy living, and community resource management.

Commensurate with Experience and Education

• A bachelor’s degree in family and consumer sciences, business, financial management, community development, or a closely related field for Extension Agent I.
• A master’s degree or 50% progress toward a master’s degree in these or closely related fields for Extension Agent II.
• Must become ServSafe® certified prior to teaching food safety and quality education to food entrepreneurs. 
• Must show significant progress (at least 30% of the requirements) towards completing Accredited Financial Counselor (AFC) certification within 3 years of employment. 
• Level 2 DCF background screening is required due to youth involvement exceeding 5%.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends
• Have (or obtain) a valid Florida driver’s license and willingness to travel using personal transportation
• Ability to design, coordinate, market, and evaluate educational programs based on research and community needs
• Strong communication skills and the ability to establish effective working relationships with community partners and clientele
• Candidates must also have a commitment to UF core values. 

• A master’s degree in family and consumer sciences, business, financial management, community development, or a closely related field for Extension Agent I or Extension Agent II.
• Experience delivering financial education, small business development support, or homeownership readiness programming.
• Experience in food safety education or working directly with food entrepreneurs or food‑based small businesses.
• Demonstrated success building partnerships with community organizations or agencies.
• Bilingual ability in English and Spanish is preferred due to the county’s significant Spanish‑speaking population.

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.