What are the responsibilities and job description for the Agriculture Extension Program Specialist position at Manatee County Government, Work That Matters?
General Information
Work Location: 1303 17th Street West, Palmetto, Florida 34221
Work Hours: Monday - Friday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Expected Starting Hourly Range: $23.67 - $29.59
Position is responsible for assisting with the delivery of Extension education programs within the Agriculture and Extension Service. The incumbent is responsible for ensuring the quality of the instruction, developing and following the lesson outlines, and maintaining the safety of program participants at all times. The Specialist plays a key rote in representing the Division.
Coordinates the development, marketing, scheduling, planning, and delivery of public educational presentations, workshops, exhibits, projects, and evaluates effectiveness of educational components.
Coordinates with staff, volunteers, Extension faculty, and other governmental agencies on youth development, horticultural, water quality and water conservation issues.
Note: Work schedule may include weekends and/or early/late hours and periodically include weeklong overnights (4-H).
Working Conditions
Indoor/Outdoor situation; high noise environment while performing certain responsibilities. Lifting equipment up to 50 lbs. alone; up to 75 lbs. with assistance. Able to reach, bend, stoop and squat. Visual acuity, ability to hear and identify sounds. Able to perform strenuous work inside and outside under varying (including extreme} weather/temperature conditions. Tasks are of more than average difficulty and require that the employee exercise reasonable initiative and independent, judgment. Work with individuals or groups (ages 5 and older) in a variety of settings and weather conditions. Dynamic and often fast-paced environment with potentially stressful situations. Works with the general public, including children, ages 5-18.
Job Description
Essential Functions
These are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work performed. The omission of specific duties does not exclude them from a position.
Community Gardens Program
Works with citizens and community organizations to develop successful community gardens in Manatee County. Acts as a liaison between volunteers, community organizations, and local government to determine the best locations for community gardens. Provides support to garden managers through research-based education and resources via the Agriculture & Extension Service. Matches potential garden users with existing community gardens. Manages one or more department- volunteer programs. Responsible for recruiting, training, placement, and scheduling volunteers. Develops and maintains volunteer program policies and procedures and ensures conformance with specific applicable laws, regulations, policies and procedures. Keeps detailed records of volunteers' information and assignments. Collects information on availabilities and skills.
Assists Extension Agent in the administration and promotion of assigned program.
Provides educational information and research resources to program participants, volunteers, and the general public regarding assigned program. Develops and prepares presentations, teaching aids, fact sheets, charts, etc.
Writing and proof-reading, which includes but is not limited to articles, funding proposals, general correspondence, technical documents, manuals, booklets, reports, distance-learning products, etc.
Skill in public relations, including promoting, networking and building mutually beneficial relationships with groups, agencies and the general public.
Skill in computer operations and pertinent software applications, i.e., PowerPoint, word processing programs, Microsoft TEAMS, Zoom, Eventbrite, Outlook for e-mail and communications, Excel, ACR GIS, Survey 123, social media platforms, etc.
Represents assigned program at outreach events. Staffs program booth/table at events. Sets up and tears down displays and exhibits. Develops and presents educational trainings, meeting and workshops. Distributes educational and promotional materials.
Acts as liaison between program participants, volunteers, community groups, and other relevant parties. Develops, administers and oversees volunteer programs.
Maintains records and documents regarding assigned programs and compiles program reports for management use.
Strictly adheres to safety procedures to protect self, co-workers, volunteers, and the general public.
Attends job-specific training classes as assigned by supervisor.
Performs other related work (including weather or other extreme emergency duties) as required.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in education, youth development, community development/sociology, natural/environmental sciences, recreation, or related field. A minimum of two (2) years' experience in an educational setting (informal or formal) working with volunteers in a leadership role, education, or management field.
Valid driver's license with valid Florida driver's license within 30 days of hire.
Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered including formal classroom experience and/or non-formal education work.
More
Prior teaching experience and familiarity with experiential learning techniques will be valuable to applicants.
Experience working with a variety of ages from pre-K through teen and adult highly desired.
Above average familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite preferred.
Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities:
Able to comprehend and follow oral and written instructions.
Organizes own work and completes tasks within assigned timeframes.
Able to resolve routine situations and problems.
Good written and verbal communication skills and interpersonal skills to be able to interact professionally and effectively with co-workers, management, volunteers, the general public, and other stakeholders.
Able to communicate routine information clearly.
General knowledge and understanding of computer applications and software programs required to perform job duties.
General knowledge and understanding of regulatory compliance necessary to successfully perform job duties.
Capable of working independently.
Solid communication skills, both written and oral, and good command of the English language (other language proficiencies welcome).
Ability to work with people from diverse backgrounds.
Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
Ability to perform work outside in variable weather conditions.
Ability to adapt to last minute changes in a quick manner using problem solving skills.
Knowledge of experiential learning and interpretive techniques (or willingness to learn).
Skill in the use of personal computers and appropriate software programs. Above average familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite preferred, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Publisher.
Organization, planning and record-keeping skills.
Knowledge of curriculum/lesson plan development and implementation preferred.
Ability to develop hands-on learning activities and service-based learning education materials.
Veterans Preference
In accordance with Florida Statute 295.07, F.S., Chapter 55A-7, priority consideration in employment will be given to eligible veterans and spouses of disabled veterans. Applicants claiming preference must provide a DD Form 214 or other acceptable documentation with their application. We are committed to honoring the service and sacrifices of our veterans and their families.
EEO/ADA Statement
Manatee County Government is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If you require any accommodations to participate in the recruitment process, please contact Human Resources at 941-748-4501 x 3865.
Drug-Free Workplace
Manatee County Government is a drug-free workplace in accordance with Federal and Florida Law.
Emergency Response/Recovery Activities
All employees may be required to work before, during, or after an emergency. During an emergency, employees may temporarily be assigned to work and perform duties outside the normal scope of their position, location, and work schedule to fit the needs of the County and its citizens.
Full Time Positions
Employee Assistance Program (EAP):
Years of Service Vacation Days
0-5 16.25 days
6-10 19.50 days
11 22.75 days
Employee Assistance Program (EAP):
a pro-rated basis
01
VERY IMPORTANT - When answering supplemental questions about experience, education or certification, please be sure the information is reflected in the Education, Work Experience and Certificates and Licenses sections of your application.
Must include Monthly Salary, Name of Employer, Location, Phone Number and Duties for each employer in Work Experience.
Note: "See Resume" is not acceptable.
Identify all gaps not related to medical reasons.
If you are claiming Veteran's Preference, please check category of eligibility
Which level of education have you achieved?
What previous roles have you held that you believe qualify you for this position?
05
Do you possess a valid Florida driver's license or have the ability to obtain one within 30 days of hire?
How many years of experience do you have in an educational setting (informal or formal), working with volunteers in a leadership role, education, or management fields.
Work Location: 1303 17th Street West, Palmetto, Florida 34221
Work Hours: Monday - Friday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Expected Starting Hourly Range: $23.67 - $29.59
Position is responsible for assisting with the delivery of Extension education programs within the Agriculture and Extension Service. The incumbent is responsible for ensuring the quality of the instruction, developing and following the lesson outlines, and maintaining the safety of program participants at all times. The Specialist plays a key rote in representing the Division.
Coordinates the development, marketing, scheduling, planning, and delivery of public educational presentations, workshops, exhibits, projects, and evaluates effectiveness of educational components.
Coordinates with staff, volunteers, Extension faculty, and other governmental agencies on youth development, horticultural, water quality and water conservation issues.
Note: Work schedule may include weekends and/or early/late hours and periodically include weeklong overnights (4-H).
Working Conditions
Indoor/Outdoor situation; high noise environment while performing certain responsibilities. Lifting equipment up to 50 lbs. alone; up to 75 lbs. with assistance. Able to reach, bend, stoop and squat. Visual acuity, ability to hear and identify sounds. Able to perform strenuous work inside and outside under varying (including extreme} weather/temperature conditions. Tasks are of more than average difficulty and require that the employee exercise reasonable initiative and independent, judgment. Work with individuals or groups (ages 5 and older) in a variety of settings and weather conditions. Dynamic and often fast-paced environment with potentially stressful situations. Works with the general public, including children, ages 5-18.
Job Description
Essential Functions
These are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work performed. The omission of specific duties does not exclude them from a position.
Community Gardens Program
Works with citizens and community organizations to develop successful community gardens in Manatee County. Acts as a liaison between volunteers, community organizations, and local government to determine the best locations for community gardens. Provides support to garden managers through research-based education and resources via the Agriculture & Extension Service. Matches potential garden users with existing community gardens. Manages one or more department- volunteer programs. Responsible for recruiting, training, placement, and scheduling volunteers. Develops and maintains volunteer program policies and procedures and ensures conformance with specific applicable laws, regulations, policies and procedures. Keeps detailed records of volunteers' information and assignments. Collects information on availabilities and skills.
Assists Extension Agent in the administration and promotion of assigned program.
Provides educational information and research resources to program participants, volunteers, and the general public regarding assigned program. Develops and prepares presentations, teaching aids, fact sheets, charts, etc.
Writing and proof-reading, which includes but is not limited to articles, funding proposals, general correspondence, technical documents, manuals, booklets, reports, distance-learning products, etc.
Skill in public relations, including promoting, networking and building mutually beneficial relationships with groups, agencies and the general public.
Skill in computer operations and pertinent software applications, i.e., PowerPoint, word processing programs, Microsoft TEAMS, Zoom, Eventbrite, Outlook for e-mail and communications, Excel, ACR GIS, Survey 123, social media platforms, etc.
Represents assigned program at outreach events. Staffs program booth/table at events. Sets up and tears down displays and exhibits. Develops and presents educational trainings, meeting and workshops. Distributes educational and promotional materials.
Acts as liaison between program participants, volunteers, community groups, and other relevant parties. Develops, administers and oversees volunteer programs.
Maintains records and documents regarding assigned programs and compiles program reports for management use.
Strictly adheres to safety procedures to protect self, co-workers, volunteers, and the general public.
Attends job-specific training classes as assigned by supervisor.
Performs other related work (including weather or other extreme emergency duties) as required.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in education, youth development, community development/sociology, natural/environmental sciences, recreation, or related field. A minimum of two (2) years' experience in an educational setting (informal or formal) working with volunteers in a leadership role, education, or management field.
Valid driver's license with valid Florida driver's license within 30 days of hire.
Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered including formal classroom experience and/or non-formal education work.
More
Prior teaching experience and familiarity with experiential learning techniques will be valuable to applicants.
Experience working with a variety of ages from pre-K through teen and adult highly desired.
Above average familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite preferred.
Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities:
Able to comprehend and follow oral and written instructions.
Organizes own work and completes tasks within assigned timeframes.
Able to resolve routine situations and problems.
Good written and verbal communication skills and interpersonal skills to be able to interact professionally and effectively with co-workers, management, volunteers, the general public, and other stakeholders.
Able to communicate routine information clearly.
General knowledge and understanding of computer applications and software programs required to perform job duties.
General knowledge and understanding of regulatory compliance necessary to successfully perform job duties.
Capable of working independently.
Solid communication skills, both written and oral, and good command of the English language (other language proficiencies welcome).
Ability to work with people from diverse backgrounds.
Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
Ability to perform work outside in variable weather conditions.
Ability to adapt to last minute changes in a quick manner using problem solving skills.
Knowledge of experiential learning and interpretive techniques (or willingness to learn).
Skill in the use of personal computers and appropriate software programs. Above average familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite preferred, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Publisher.
Organization, planning and record-keeping skills.
Knowledge of curriculum/lesson plan development and implementation preferred.
Ability to develop hands-on learning activities and service-based learning education materials.
Veterans Preference
In accordance with Florida Statute 295.07, F.S., Chapter 55A-7, priority consideration in employment will be given to eligible veterans and spouses of disabled veterans. Applicants claiming preference must provide a DD Form 214 or other acceptable documentation with their application. We are committed to honoring the service and sacrifices of our veterans and their families.
EEO/ADA Statement
Manatee County Government is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If you require any accommodations to participate in the recruitment process, please contact Human Resources at 941-748-4501 x 3865.
Drug-Free Workplace
Manatee County Government is a drug-free workplace in accordance with Federal and Florida Law.
Emergency Response/Recovery Activities
All employees may be required to work before, during, or after an emergency. During an emergency, employees may temporarily be assigned to work and perform duties outside the normal scope of their position, location, and work schedule to fit the needs of the County and its citizens.
Full Time Positions
Employee Assistance Program (EAP):
- ComPsych – offers all employees and their family members with emotional, financial, legal, and work/life balance support.
- LAMP counselors available for personal support including emotional, substance abuse, marital, and financial issues.
- Five (5) free visits annually for employees and covered family members.
- Wellness/Health Coaches (5 Free per year)
- On-site Fitness Centers for you and your dependents with 24/7 access
- Personal Training (5 Free per year)
- Pharmacy Technician
- Group Fitness Classes
- Musculoskeletal Physical Therapy Management
- Diabetes Care Program
- Registered Dietician (5 Free per year)
- Massages with licensed therapist (small copay)
- Workers’ Compensation
- Training/Seminars
- Premium Pay Differentials/Career Ladders
- Government employee discounts at many retailers and attractions
- Access to Manatee County Library Services (books, digital services, tools, museum passes).
- 12 Paid Holidays including New Year's Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.
- Three (3) Personal Holidays
- Personal Sick Leave
- Family Sick Leave
- Sick Leave Bank (Donated Hours)
- Professional Medical Appointment Leave
- Bereavement Leave
- Military Leave
- Military Training Leave
- FMLA
Years of Service Vacation Days
0-5 16.25 days
6-10 19.50 days
11 22.75 days
- Earn an additional day of vacation every six (6) consecutive months of no sick leave.
- Award-winning Health Plan with deductibles as low as $0.
- Dental Insurance
- Vision Insurance
- Prescription Insurance
- Life Insurance (6 times salary at low cost)
- Long-term and Short-term Disability Insurance
- Florida Retirement System (FRS) with Pension Plan and Investment Plan options.
- 457b Tax Deferred and ROTH account options through Voya.
- FRS Webinars
- Free financial guidance with licensed, non-commissioned financial planner
- Professional Leadership Programs
- Instructor-Led and eLearning Training
- Premium Pay Differentials/Career Ladders
- Career Counseling
- Toastmasters
- Networking Membership (Manatee Chamber of Commerce, Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance)
- Employee Recognition Programs with monetary and time-off awards
- Tuition Reimbursement eligible after six (6) months of Public Service, including GED reimbursement.
- Continuing Education support through Training/Seminars and Premium Pay Differentials/Career Ladder.
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)
- Options for Health Care and Dependent Care Spending Accounts providing pre-tax savings.
Employee Assistance Program (EAP):
- ComPsych – offers all employees and their family members with emotional, financial, legal, and work/life balance support.
- LAMP counselors available for personal support including emotional, substance abuse, marital, and financial issues.
- Workers’ Compensation
- Training/Seminars
- Fitness Center Access for employee only
- FRS options
- Premium Pay Differentials/Career Ladders
- Government employee discounts at many retailers and attractions
- Access to Manatee County Library Services (books, digital services, tools, museum passes).
- 12 Paid Holidays including New Year's Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.
- Three (3) Personal Holidays
- Paid Time Off and Leaves of Absence are based on an 8 hrs./day 80/hrs.
a pro-rated basis
01
VERY IMPORTANT - When answering supplemental questions about experience, education or certification, please be sure the information is reflected in the Education, Work Experience and Certificates and Licenses sections of your application.
Must include Monthly Salary, Name of Employer, Location, Phone Number and Duties for each employer in Work Experience.
Note: "See Resume" is not acceptable.
Identify all gaps not related to medical reasons.
- I acknowledge the above statement
If you are claiming Veteran's Preference, please check category of eligibility
- A disabled veteran who is eligible for receiving compensation under public law administered by Department of Veteran's Affairs and Department of Defense
- The spouse of a veteran who cannot qualify for employment because of total and permanent service-connected disability, or spouse of a veteran missing in action, captured or forcefully detained by a foreign power
- A wartime veteran who has served at least 1 day during a wartime period (active duty for training may not be eligible)
- An un-remarried widow or widower of a Veteran who died of a service-connected disability
- The mother, father, legal guardian, or un-remarried widow or widower of a service member who died as a result of military service under combat-related conditions as verified by the U.S. Department of Defense
- A current member of any reserve component for the United States Armed Forces or the Florida National Guard
- A veteran with a "Honorable" discharge (Active duty for training may not be allowed for eligibility)
- Not claiming Veteran's Preference
Which level of education have you achieved?
- No high school equivalency
- High school graduate/equivalent
- Associates degree
- Bachelors degree
- Masters degree
What previous roles have you held that you believe qualify you for this position?
05
Do you possess a valid Florida driver's license or have the ability to obtain one within 30 days of hire?
- Yes
- No
How many years of experience do you have in an educational setting (informal or formal), working with volunteers in a leadership role, education, or management fields.
- 0-1 year
- 2-3 years
- 4-5 years
- 6 years
- Required Question
Salary : $24 - $30
