Sea Grant 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 12-month permanent status accruing position serves as an Extension Agent I or II providing leadership for Florida Sea Grant programming in Walton County, focusing on marine and coastal ecosystems. The agent will design and deliver research-based education that supports the sustainable use, protection, and resilience of coastal resources.

Florida Sea Grant and Extension Integration

• Serve as the county-based Sea Grant Extension professional, linking UF research with local coastal needs
• Translate marine science research into practical education for stakeholders including residents, industries, and decision-makers
• Contribute to statewide Sea Grant initiatives addressing coastal resilience, fisheries sustainability, and water resource protection

Program Development and Delivery

• Develop, implement, and evaluate educational programs addressing coastal ecosystems, estuarine health, fisheries, marine debris, and water quality
• In collaboration with the Walton County Environmental Coordinator, develop and implement Habitat Conservation Plans to address education and outreach needs around the topics of artificial reefs, coastal dune lakes, microplastics, and charter boat training initiatives.
• Deliver workshops, field demonstrations, and applied training programs for varied audiences
• Create outreach materials, including digital and print resources, tailored to coastal issues in Walton County

Stakeholder Engagement and Partnerships

• Build and maintain working relationships with key Walton County stakeholders, including:
  • Coastal residents and homeowner associations
  • Charter and commercial fishing industries
  • Tourism and hospitality businesses
  • Walton County Board of County Commissioners and planning departments
  • Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and local water management entities
  • Choctawhatchee Basin Alliance and regional conservation organizations
  • UF IFAS Extension partners across the Northwest District
• Facilitate collaborative efforts that address coastal hazards, water quality improvement, and habitat conservation

Needs Assessment and Evaluation

• Conduct ongoing assessments to identify emerging issues such as coastal erosion, storm impacts, and ecosystem degradation
• Measure program effectiveness using established evaluation methods and adjust programming accordingly
• Document and report program impacts to stakeholders and funding partners

Extension Leadership and Collaboration

• Participate in multi-county and statewide initiatives within Marine Science and Natural Resource program areas
• Collaborate with UF IFAS Extension specialists and Sea Grant faculty
• Engage in professional development to maintain expertise in marine and coastal systems

About UF

The University of Florida (UF) is a flagship land-grant institution recognized nationally for excellence in teaching, research, and public service. UF consistently ranks among the top public universities in the United States and provides a dynamic environment where employees engage in meaningful work that advances knowledge and strengthens communities. The university fosters innovation, collaboration, and lifelong learning while offering a comprehensive benefits package to support employee well-being and professional growth. Additional information is available at: https://hr.ufl.edu/benefits/.

About IFAS Extension

UF IFAS Extension serves as the outreach arm of the Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, delivering research-based information to Florida residents through a statewide network of county offices. Extension professionals translate university science into practical applications that address local and regional needs. Through strong partnerships with federal, state, and local entities, Extension enhances environmental sustainability, economic development, and community resilience.

Florida Sea Grant operates within UF IFAS Extension as part of a national network funded through the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Sea Grant integrates research, education, and Extension to support the sustainable use and conservation of coastal and marine resources. Within the Extension model, Sea Grant agents serve as the link between university science and coastal communities-translating complex marine research into actionable guidance for industry, local governments, and residents. This position represents a critical intersection of Marine Science and Natural Resource programming, focusing on coastal ecosystems, water quality, and resilient coastal communities.

About Walton County

Walton County is located along Florida's northwestern Gulf Coast and encompasses approximately 1,100 square miles of varied landscapes, including beaches, estuaries, forests, and rural inland communities. With a population exceeding 83,000 residents, the county continues to experience growth driven by tourism, coastal development, and natural resource-based industries. Walton County is internationally recognized for its rare coastal dune lakes-unique ecological systems found in only a few locations worldwide.

The local economy is supported by tourism, fisheries, construction, and small businesses, all of which are closely tied to the health of coastal and marine ecosystems. Natural resource management, conservation, water quality, and sustainable development are high-priority issues for the region. UF IFAS Extension Walton County works collaboratively with neighboring Panhandle counties, regional Extension offices, and Research and Education Centers to address shared coastal challenges and deliver impactful programming.

Expected Salary:

Commensurate with education and experience.

Required Qualifications:

• A bachelor's degree for Extension Agent I or a master's degree (or at least 50% progress toward a master's degree) for Extension Agent II in marine science, coastal ecology, environmental science, fisheries, natural resources, or a closely related field from an accredited institution
• Ability to develop, implement, and evaluate Extension programs in accordance with UF IFAS Extension guidelines (https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/)
• Strong written and oral communication skills for technical and public audiences
• Experience working with marine, estuarine, or coastal ecosystems
• Demonstrated ability to build partnerships with community organizations, agencies, and industry stakeholders
• Knowledge of program evaluation methods and reporting practices
• Ability to obtain a valid driver's license and ability to travel within the county and region
• Candidates must also have a commitment to UF core values

Preferred:

• A master's degree in marine science, coastal management, environmental science, or a closely related discipline
• Experience with Florida Sea Grant or other coastal Extension programs
• Familiarity with Florida Panhandle ecosystems, including dune lakes, artificial reefs, estuaries, and Gulf fisheries
• Experience working with local governments, regulatory agencies, or coastal planning initiatives
• Demonstrated success in securing grants or external funding
• Strong facilitation and public engagement skills, including experience leading workshops and stakeholder meetings

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