The individual in this position must possess a high degree of horticulture, plant protection, and plant science knowledge and have excellent people and communication skills, be computer literate, and have the necessary education and experience to lead a strong Extension horticultural education program. This position requires a person who can relate to the needs of our clientele, is adept at going out into the county for on-site visits to engage targeted audiences, and can increase program capacity by generating community resources and building partnerships. The person in this position should be versed in homeowner horticulture and gardening, turf and ornamentals, sustainable crop production systems, fruit and vegetable production, IPPM, and soil science. Secondly, this position is responsible for managing the Extension Master Gardener℠ program which includes recruiting, training and oversight of Extension Master Gardener volunteers.

Other tasks include the management of pesticide education as it pertains to the green industry, coordinating and assisting with youth horticulture programs and school gardens, being responsive to public inquiries relating to horticulture, developing innovative strategies for marketing, and evaluating educational impacts of the overall horticultural program.

The individual should be able to establish relationships with community groups to support community gardening. The candidate must be able to develop and implement innovative strategies for presenting educational programs and provide leadership for planning, marketing, and evaluating educational programs with measurable impacts.

The position will also involve collaborating with area Extension specialists, Local Foods Agent and other Extension agents to coordinate collaborative educational programs.