This full-time permanent status accruing Extension Agent will work jointly for UF/IFAS Extension and Santa Rosa County. We are looking for an individual with skills in teaching diverse audiences who will plan, develop, teach, implement, and evaluate a comprehensive marine, coastal, and riverine resources education program (95%) plus assist with our 4-H Youth Development program (5%).
The Agent will be responsible for a program that provides public education and leadership to support economic growth and environmental sustainability with collaboration and input of industry stakeholders, county residents, local government, state, and regional agencies, and local UF/IFAS Extension colleagues.
The Agent will educate and communicate to address issues, facilitate solutions, and promote positive behavior change associated with the health of coastal, estuarine, and sensitive environments. Programs can focus on coastal community resilience and stewardship; water quality issues; coastal ecosystem health and restoration; economic growth and development; invasive marine and coastal species; protected marine species; sustainable fisheries and best fishing practices; and existing initiatives including citizen science and other initiatives.
The candidate will be able to:
- Deliver educational programs using a wide variety of approaches (e.g., tours, workshops, seminars, publications, and electronic media) to effectively reach community stakeholders of diverse age, education, experience, and learning styles.
- Create, develop, and confer with a Santa Rosa County marine advisory committee representing the diversity of the community to provide local guidance, ensuring that the local Sea Grant program is relevant with a high level of stakeholder engagement.
- Collaborate with agencies and other partners to respond effectively and efficiently to priority coastal issues.
- Develop and maintain professional relationships with various marine and coastal businesses, resource and water education user groups, and other stakeholders.
- Act as a liaison to marine and natural resource management agencies, as well as public and private organizations, aquaculturists, and educational institutions.
- Participate on at least one Florida Sea Grant work action group (WAG) and contribute to regional and statewide extension education programs that relate locally.
- Participate in the annual Florida Sea Grant Extension Program retreat and other professional development opportunities.
- Develop programs to promote nature-based recreation, tourism, and economic development as it relates to Santa Rosa County coastal and other natural resources.
- Accept other duties relevant to marine extension education as assigned by the County Extension Director and the District Extension Director, including 4-H youth programs.
- Use an equity lens in all extension work by following all county, UF, and IFAS Extension policies regarding Affirmative Action, program development, and parity.
- Continue learning, researching, collaborating, and experiencing local marine, coastal, and environmental issues to provide research-based information and solutions that meet stakeholder needs.
