Permanent Landscape Gardener Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Classification Title:

EXT AGENT I-II

Classification Minimum Requirements:

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

Job Description:

You Belong at a University That's Leading the Way

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 is a 12-month permanent status accruing Extension Agent I or II position in Environmental Horticulture. The agent will develop, deliver, and evaluate research-based educational programs that promote sustainable landscape practices, water conservation, and environmental protection throughout Seminole County.

Program Development and Delivery

• Develop and deliver research-based programs on Florida-Friendly Landscaping, which includes topics such as water conservation, soil health, and integrated pest management.
• Conduct workshops, demonstrations, and on-site consultations for homeowners, landscape professionals, and public agencies.
• Provide training on fertilizer ordinances, irrigation efficiency, and landscape best management practices.
• Coordinate countywide Green Industries Best Management Practices (GI-BMP) programming, including training delivery, certification support, and outreach to industry professionals.
• Provide oversight and educational integration for the Florida-Friendly Landscaping demonstration garden and Native Plant garden, collaborating with volunteers, including the Native Plant Society, to enhance learning experiences and community engagement.

Stakeholder Engagement and Collaboration

• Build partnerships with municipal governments, homeowner associations, and green industry stakeholders.
• Collaborate with UF/IFAS Extension faculty to align programs with statewide priorities.
• Work alongside Seminole County's Watershed Division to support NPDES reporting requirements through educational programming and documentation of outreach impacts.
• Partner with water resource professionals, including regional water management districts, to advance water quality and conservation initiatives.
• Support and engage volunteers to expand program reach and effectiveness.

Applied Research and Evaluation

• Conduct needs assessments to identify priority environmental horticulture issues.
• Evaluate program effectiveness and document measurable impacts.
• Contribute to applied research and demonstration efforts that support sustainable landscape systems.

Communication and Resource Development

• Develop fact sheets, educational materials, and digital content.
• Deliver programming through workshops, online platforms, and community events.
• Maintain accurate records and reporting to support GI-BMP participation and NPDES documentation.

Professional Development

• Maintain subject-matter expertise through continuing education.
• Participate in Extension teams and interdisciplinary initiatives.

About UF

The University of Florida is a premier land-grant institution committed to excellence in education, research, and service. Ranked among the top public universities in the nation, UF prepares professionals to address complex challenges through innovation, applied knowledge, and community engagement. Its statewide impact is strengthened through UF/IFAS Extension, which translates university research into practical solutions that improve the quality of life for residents across Florida.

About IFAS Extension

UF/IFAS Extension is a partnership between the University of Florida, federal, state, and local governments. Through this network, Extension faculty deliver science-based educational programs that support agriculture, natural resources, youth development, and community well-being. Extension professionals work directly with stakeholders to address emerging issues such as water conservation, sustainable land use, and environmental stewardship.

With offices in every Florida county, UF/IFAS Extension offers a unique opportunity to engage communities through hands-on education and applied problem solving. Faculty collaborate with specialists, local governments, and industry professionals to ensure programs remain relevant and impactful. This role contributes to a respected organization that values innovation, accountability, and measurable outcomes while supporting professional growth. Learn more about employee benefits at: https://hr.ufl.edu/benefits/.

About Seminole County

Seminole County is located in Central Florida, just north of Orlando, spanning approximately 345 square miles. With a population exceeding 470,000 residents, it is one of the fastest-growing counties in the region. The county features a blend of suburban communities, natural lands, and water resources, including rivers, lakes, and protected conservation areas.

Historically rooted in agriculture, Seminole County has evolved into a suburban hub while maintaining strong ties to environmental stewardship and horticulture industries. The county places a strong emphasis on protecting water quality and managing urban landscapes responsibly, making it a key location for environmental horticulture programming.

The Seminole County Extension office plays a central role in delivering educational outreach on sustainable landscaping, irrigation practices, and environmental protection. Its proximity to other Central Florida Extension offices and research centers supports collaboration and regional program development while addressing both local and regional needs.

Expected Salary:

Commensurate with education and experience. 

Required Qualifications:

• A bachelor's degree for Extension Agent I, and a master's degree (or at least 50% progress toward a master's degree) for Extension Agent II in horticulture, environmental science, plant science, or a closely related field.
• Demonstrated ability to design and deliver research-based educational programs (https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu).
• Strong written and verbal communication skills for public engagement.
• Experience or familiarity with environmental horticulture practices, including irrigation, fertilization, and pest management.
• Ability to work independently while building effective partnerships with stakeholders and agencies.
• Experience maintaining records, evaluating programs, and reporting measurable outcomes.
• Ability to obtain a valid driver's license and willingness to travel locally.
• Candidates must obtain and maintain the Green Industries Best Management Practices (GI-BMP) Instructor certification, which is required for the Environmental Horticulture program area.
• Candidates must also have a commitment to UF core values.

Preferred:

• A master's degree in horticulture, environmental science, or a closely related field.
• Experience with Florida-Friendly Landscaping principles and sustainable landscape systems.
• Knowledge of irrigation technologies, fertilizer management, and integrated pest management practices.
• Experience coordinating or delivering GI-BMP or similar certification-based programs.
• Demonstrated success working with local governments, environmental agencies, or water resource professionals.
• Experience managing demonstration landscapes or educational gardens.
• Preferred certifications include a Restricted Use Pesticide License and Commercial Pesticide Applicator credential, which support advanced program delivery and technical expertise.

Special Instructions to Applicants:

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. 

Health Assessment Required: No