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Master Gardener Jobs in Delaware (NOW HIRING)

As an Olive Garden bartender, you must master alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverage recipes to meet and exceed guest expectations. In addition, as a bartender, you will ensure various guest and team ...

As an Olive Garden bartender, you must master alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverage recipes to meet and exceed guest expectations. In addition, as a bartender, you will ensure various guest and team ...

As an Olive Garden bartender, you must master alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverage recipes to meet and exceed guest expectations. In addition, as a bartender, you will ensure various guest and team ...

As an Olive Garden bartender, you must master alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverage recipes to meet and exceed guest expectations. In addition, as a bartender, you will ensure various guest and team ...

As an Olive Garden bartender, you must master alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverage recipes to meet and exceed guest expectations. In addition, as a bartender, you will ensure various guest and team ...

As an Olive Garden bartender, you must master alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverage recipes to meet and exceed guest expectations. In addition, as a bartender, you will ensure various guest and team ...

As an Olive Garden bartender, you must master alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverage recipes to meet and exceed guest expectations. In addition, as a bartender, you will ensure various guest and team ...

As an Olive Garden bartender, you must master alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverage recipes to meet and exceed guest expectations. In addition, as a bartender, you will ensure various guest and team ...

As an Olive Garden bartender, you must master alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverage recipes to meet and exceed guest expectations. In addition, as a bartender, you will ensure various guest and team ...

As an Olive Garden bartender, you must master alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverage recipes to meet and exceed guest expectations. In addition, as a bartender, you will ensure various guest and team ...

As an Olive Garden bartender, you must master alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverage recipes to meet and exceed guest expectations. In addition, as a bartender, you will ensure various guest and team ...

Master Gardener information

See Delaware salary details

$12

$21

$31

How much do master gardener jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for master gardener in Delaware is $21.43, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $24.28 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to Become a Master Gardener

To become a master gardener, you must participate in and pass a Master Gardener program at a university or university extension. Extension master gardener programs are available in most states and involve certification via an exam after you complete the required courses. Each state and county has specific requirements for training, volunteer service, and community involvement for its master gardeners. Upon graduation, you commit to using your horticulture skills in accordance with the program’s guidelines. Most program qualifications specify an ongoing volunteer commitment in the community to retain standing as a master gardener. Continuing education is also a common requirement for prolonging your certification.

What is the difference between Master Gardener vs Horticulturist?

AspectMaster GardenerHorticulturist
Required CredentialsVolunteer training, certification from extension servicesFormal education (bachelor's or higher in horticulture or related field)
Work EnvironmentCommunity gardens, educational programs, public outreachResearch labs, nurseries, botanical gardens, landscape companies
Employer & Industry UsageExtension services, non-profits, community organizationsResearch institutions, commercial horticulture, government agencies

The main difference is that Master Gardeners typically have volunteer-based training focused on community education and outreach, while Horticulturists usually hold formal degrees and work in research, development, or commercial horticulture settings. Both roles involve plant knowledge, but their work environments and credentials differ significantly.

What can you do with a Master Gardener certification?

A Master Gardener certification qualifies individuals to provide horticultural advice, educate the public about gardening practices, and support community gardening projects. Certified Master Gardeners often work in educational settings, extension services, or volunteer roles, utilizing their knowledge of plants, soil, and pest management.

Is Master Gardener any good?

A Master Gardener is a volunteer or professional who has completed specialized training in horticulture and gardening practices. The role involves providing education, advice, and support to the public on plant care, pest management, and sustainable gardening. It can be a rewarding career for those passionate about plants and environmental stewardship, often requiring certification and ongoing learning.

What are Master Gardeners?

Master Gardeners are trained volunteers who provide research-based gardening information to the public. They complete a specialized training program, usually offered through university extension programs, and assist their communities with gardening education, plant diagnostics, and sustainable horticulture practices. Master Gardeners often answer gardening questions, conduct workshops, and support environmental stewardship initiatives. Their role helps promote healthy, successful gardens and landscapes while encouraging responsible use of natural resources.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Master Gardener, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Master Gardener, you need a solid understanding of horticulture, plant biology, and sustainable gardening practices, often backed by completion of an accredited Master Gardener training program. Familiarity with soil testing kits, plant identification apps, and integrated pest management systems is typically required. Strong communication, problem-solving, and community engagement skills help Master Gardeners educate and assist the public effectively. These competencies are essential for promoting successful, sustainable gardening and supporting community environmental initiatives.

What does it mean to be a Master Gardener?

A Master Gardener is a trained volunteer who has completed a certification program in horticulture and gardening techniques. They often provide community education, assist with plant care, and support local gardening projects under the guidance of a university extension service or similar organization.

What are some common challenges Master Gardeners face when working with community gardening projects?

Master Gardeners often encounter challenges such as coordinating schedules among volunteers, managing limited resources or funding, and addressing varying levels of gardening experience within the community. Additionally, they may need to adapt to unpredictable weather conditions and pest issues that can impact plant health. Successful Master Gardeners build strong communication and organizational skills to foster teamwork and ensure that educational goals are met while maintaining a positive and inclusive environment.

What are the qualifications to become a Master Gardener?

To become a Master Gardener, candidates typically need to complete a training program offered by a university or extension service, which includes coursework in horticulture, plant science, and pest management. Volunteers often must pass a knowledge exam and commit to a certain number of service hours in community gardening or educational activities.
What are popular job titles related to Master Gardener jobs in Delaware? For Master Gardener jobs in Delaware, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Master Gardener jobs in Delaware look for? The top searched job categories for Master Gardener jobs in Delaware are:
Infographic showing various Master Gardener job openings in Delaware as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 9% Internship, 53% As Needed, 22% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 10% Nights, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 23% Physical, and 77% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $44,582 per year, or $21.4 per hour.

Extension Specialist I/Agent II, Agricultural Engineer

University of Delaware

Georgetown, DE • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago


University Of Delaware rating

5.7

Company rating: 5.7 out of 10

Based on 21 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

576th of 614 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Extension Specialist I/Agent II, Agricultural Engineer
Job no: 503075
College / VP Area: College of Ag & Natural Res
Work type: Staff
Location: Georgetown, DE
Categories: Engineering, Full Time, Extension and Outreach
Curious about the full value of working at UD? In addition to salary, our Total Rewards benefits and Compensation Estimator give you a clear view of the complete package.
PAY GRADE: Grade: 31E (Specialist I) / 30E (Agent II)
CONTEXT OF THE JOB:

The Research and Education Center located in Georgetown, Delaware, is the southernmost Agricultural Experiment Station of the University of Delaware's College of Agriculture and Natural Resources. The Center's multi-disciplined staff consists of faculty, professionals, support staff, and miscellaneous wage employees (seasonal). The Center is responsible for conducting Cooperative Extension and Research programs in the areas of agronomic and vegetable crop production; farm and youth safety; 4-H/youth at risk; health and well-being; poultry research and diagnostic programs; Master Gardener educational programs; ornamental horticulture; water quality and nutrient management; irrigation/water management; expanded food and nutrition programs; as well as economic and community development. These programs are aimed at improving the quality of life through the transfer of research-based information to the consumer.
At the direction of the Ag Program Leader, the Extension Agricultural Engineer will provide statewide leadership and/or support in irrigation and precision agriculture programming for crop production. This position focuses on grower education, applied research, technology evaluation, and collaboration with extension, industry, and regulatory partners to improve irrigation efficiency, water management, and precision decision-making for Delaware growers. The Agricultural Engineer will develop and disseminate research-based recommendations, lead irrigation-related extension initiatives, and support the adoption of appropriate precision agriculture technologies by the farming community.
MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES: (Applicable to both levels)
  • Partner with County Agricultural Extension Agents, Faculty Specialists, and others to expand and strengthen the University of Delaware's agricultural irrigation extension program.
  • Collaborate with Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) personnel to evaluate irrigation equipment, systems, and management practices across Delaware and support the continued improvement of NRCS irrigation programs, including standards refinement and delivery of training sessions.
  • Conduct educational programs for vegetable producers, field crop farmers, processors, and agricultural supply personnel in irrigation management, new precision technologies, and farm equipment modifications.
  • Provide hands-on technical assistance and decision-support guidance to growers and industry stakeholders.
  • Establish a high-impact agricultural irrigation program built upon strong relationships with agricultural producers and industry contacts to develop projects that deliver practical, solutions-driven approaches of value and relevance to Delaware growers.
  • Maintain a basic understanding of tillage, planting, application, and harvest equipment to advise researchers and farmers on the selection, calibration, and maintenance of modern farm equipment.
  • Collaborate with specialists to develop tools, recommendations, and decision-support systems that assist farmers with precision agriculture and irrigation management decisions.
  • Maintain technical competency in precision agriculture technology (e.g., variable-rate application systems, GPS-guided autosteer, UAV imagery, sensor technologies).
  • Responsible for implementation of Program Plan and reporting impacts within Extension's Planning and Reporting System (PEARS).
  • Collaborate with regional extension, research institutions, industry partners, and regulatory agencies to perform applied research and deliver education in precision agriculture.
  • Participate in the development of competitive research proposals and external funding opportunities to support irrigation and precision agriculture programming.
  • Supervise student employees and/or research team members, as appropriate.
  • Perform other job-related duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS (Required for consideration at either level):
  • Degree in agricultural engineering, biological resources engineering, biosystems engineering, agronomy, crop science, precision agriculture, or related field.
  • Experience with sprinkler and drip irrigation systems, water management, and agricultural engineering principles.
  • Understanding of precision agriculture technologies and data-driven decision-making tools.
  • Strong communication skills and ability to work effectively with growers, extension personnel, researchers, and industry partners.
  • Documented written and oral communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Familiarity with data loggers, computer controls, and scientific sensors related to irrigation management preferred.

ADDITIONAL QUALIFICATIONS BY LEVEL:
Extension Agent II (Grade 30E):
  • Bachelor's degree plus four (4) years, or Master's degree plus two (2) years of experience in Extension teaching, research, or related field.
  • Demonstrated ability to collaborate on research proposals and secure external funding.
  • Experience supervising student employees preferred.

Extension Specialist I (Grade 31E):
  • Master's degree plus four (4) years of experience, or Doctorate (preferred) plus two (2) years of experience in Extension teaching, research, or related field.
  • Experience with GIS and CAD software preferred.
  • Demonstrated experience leading research initiatives and securing external grant funding.
  • Prior supervisory experience of research team staff preferred.
  • Grantsmanship experience preferred.

Notice of Non-Discrimination and Equal Opportunity
The University of Delaware does not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, genetic information, marital status, disability, religion, age, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by applicable law in its employment, educational programs and activities, admissions policies, and scholarship and loan programs as required by Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and other applicable statutes and University policies. The University of Delaware also prohibits unlawful harassment including sexual harassment and sexual violence.
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