60352055 – AG-ST JOHNS

Horticultural Extension Program Assistant

Assists in the coordination of the Horticulture/Master Gardener Program:

• Coordinates program participants.
• Maintains program database.
• Assists with publicity and planning of programs.
• Prepares flyers and other communication.
  Conducts tours of the property.
• Assists in the coordination of parties, luncheons, programs and events.
• Provides information to update the office program web site.
• Photographs events and program activities.
  Develops press releases.
• Assists with kitchen activities during events.
• Assists with newsletters.
  Drives a county vehicle for errands, deliveries, and to UF main campus.
• Drives tractor to mow as needed and provide mulch to program areas.

Assists in ground maintenance activities by maintaining a tractor barn facility, pesticide storage irrigation maintenance, watering, planting, weeding, trimming, ordering supplies, and spraying pesticides and/or herbicides as needed.
Assists Agent with managing community garden plots, including watering and grounds keeping. Work with Horticulture Extension Agent and Master Gardeners to diagnose symptoms of plant disease, nutrient deficiencies and pests and formulate a response to resolve client problems. Maintain diagnostic records.  Organize community garden volunteers to maintain communal areas and enforce rules.
Conducts educational classes related to food production, pesticide education, best management practices, and other horticulture topics.

Performs other duties as assigned. 

$15.80-$18/hourly, commensurate with experience

High school diploma or equivalent.

Must possess and maintain a valid Florida driver’s license and any other endorsements necessary to legally operate vehicles used while assigned to this position.

A background in irrigation maintenance.
Knowledge of program policies and procedures.
Knowledge of horticulture.
Knowledge of time management.
Knowledge of people management.
Knowledge of office principles and practices.
Knowledge of computers and job related software programs.
Knowledge of event management.
Skill in the analysis of problems and the development and implementation of solutions.
Skill in the preparation of clear and precise administrative reports.
Skill in oral and written communication.
Ability to operate a computer

The Horticulture Agent assigns work in terms of general instructions. The supervisor spot-checks completed work for compliance with procedures, accuracy, and the nature and propriety of the final results.
8:30 to 5:00 (30-minute lunch), Monday-Friday. Flexible, as determined by the Agent. Some work outside these hours may be necessary.

Would be expected to obtain a pesticide license in 1 year.

Background check and fingerprinting required.

Working Conditions: Work has some exposure to environmental changes (e.g., outdoor weather and/or field conditions, etc.)
Risk/Safety Conditions: This position has some exposure or risk to physical health and/or physical safety (e.g., exposure to environmentally hazardous material such as pesticides and herbicides, heavy equipment, etc.).
Essential Physical Activities: Stooping, sitting, crouching, walking, pulling and/or lifting heavy objects.
Demonstrate commitment to contributing to a respectful and caring community for all, including individuals of diverse backgrounds, experiences, races, ethnicities, gender identities, sexual orientation, and perspectives

Contacts are typically with co-workers, county personnel, teachers and students, volunteer groups, elected and appointed officials, media representatives, community-based organizations, governmental agencies, and members of the general public.

Contacts are typically to provide services, to give or exchange information, or to resolve problems.

The University of Florida is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer and is committed to increasing the diversity of its faculty & staff. We welcome nominations of and applications from anyone who would bring additional dimensions to the university’s research, teaching and clinical mission, including women, members of minority groups, protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

Employee should demonstrate a commitment to contributing to a respectful and caring community for all, including individuals of diverse backgrounds, experiences, races, ethnicities, gender identities, sexual orientation, and perspectives.

This position is eligible for veteran’s preference. If you are claiming veteran’s preference, please upload a copy of your DD 214 Member Copy 4 with your application for consideration. See our Veteran’s Preference Page  for more specific information.

This is a time-limited position.

Application must be submitted by 11:55 p.m. (ET) of the posting end date.