Salary: $23.67 - $35.50 Hourly
Location : Palmetto, FL
Job Type: Full-Time (Hourly)
Job Number: 26-00208
Department: Natural Resources
Division: Agriculture
Opening Date: 04/21/2026
Closing Date: 5/5/2026 11:59 PM Eastern
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 role 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.
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 duties as assigned, including participation in emergency or disaster response activities, as required and consistent with the employee's qualifications, essential job functions, and applicable federal and Florida law.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in education, youth development, community development/sociology, natural/environmental sciences, recreation, or related field.
Minimum of two (2) years' experience in an educational setting (informal or formal) working with volunteers in a leadership role, education, or management field.
Equivalent combinations of education, training, and experience may be considered in meeting the minimum qualifications for this position including formal classroom experience and/or non-formal education work.
More
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.
AREAS OF ASSIGNMENT
Residential Horticulture / Master Gardeners Program
The Residential Horticulture / Master Gardeners Program Specialist will play a vital role in the administration, promotion and delivery of Extension education programming within the Agriculture and Extension Division, with a significant focus on managing and developing volunteer initiatives. This position is responsible for ensuring the quality of instruction, developing and following lesson outlines, and maintaining the safety of all program participants. The Program Specialist acts as a key representative of the division, coordinating educational initiatives and fostering community engagement, particularly through robust volunteer programs as well as providing horticultural and entomological expertise to program participants, volunteers, and members of the public. Key responsibilities of this position include, but are not limited to:
Program Administration & Promotion
Assisting the Extension Agent in the overall administration and promotion of the Master Gardener Volunteer program, coordinating the development, marketing, scheduling, planning and delivery of public educational presentations, workshops, exhibits, and projects, and evaluating the effectiveness of educational components and program initiatives
Educational Content Development & Delivery
Providing educational information and research resources to program participants, volunteers, and the general public, developing and preparing presentations, teaching aids, facts sheets, charts, technical documents, manuals, booklets, and distance-learning products, developing and presenting educational trainings, meetings, and workshops.
Outreach & Public Relations
Representing assigned programs at outreach events, staffing booths/tables, and setting up/tearing down displays and educational exhibits, distributing educational and promotional materials, engaging in public relations activities, including promoting, networking, and building mutually beneficial relationships with groups, agencies, and the public.
Comprehensive Volunteer Program Management
Serving as the primary lead for all aspects of the Master Gardener Volunteer program, acting as the liaison between program participants, volunteers, community groups, and other relevant parties, assisting with the administration of the Master Gardener Volunteer program, including proactive recruiting, thorough training, strategic placement, and efficient scheduling of volunteers, establishing and maintaining robust volunteer program policies and procedures, ensuring strict conformance with applicable laws, regulations, and organizational policies, maintaining detailed and accurate records of volunteers' information, assignments, availabilities, and skills, ensuring efficient program operation, coordinating with staff, volunteers, Extension faculty, and other governmental agencies to develop and enhance programming, strictly adheres to safety procedures to protect self, co-workers, volunteers and program participants at all times.
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.
Wellbeing Benefits:
- 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)
Miscellaneous Benefits:
- 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).
Paid Time Off:
- 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
Vacation Award: Applies to employees regulary sceduled to work 8 hours per day/40 hours per week.
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.
Insurance:
- 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
Retirement:
- 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
Career Wellness:
- 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
Education Benefits:
- 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)
Flexible Spending Account:
- Options for Health Care and Dependent Care Spending Accounts providing pre-tax savings.
Permanent Part Time - Benefits
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.
Miscellaneous Benefits:
• 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).
Paid Time Off:
• 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.
per pay-period basis, any work schedule less that this will be earned on
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
02
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
03
Which level of education have you achieved?
- No high school equivalency
- High school graduate/equivalent
- Associates degree
- Bachelors degree
- Masters degree
04
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
05
Are you able to work evenings or weekends as needed for special events?
06
What is your experience planning or assisting with community outreach or public events?
07
Are you comfortable assisting with outdoor event setup, takedown, and onsite logistics during community events?
08
What is your experience coordinating and managing volunteers?
09
What previous roles have you held that you believe qualify you for this position?
Required Question
