Do you want to join a team dedicated to improving lives and our environment?  Are you passionate about making a positive impact in your local school and community?

Our Horticultural Extension Agent is proud to announce a full time position to assist with and oversee/supervise volunteers in the development of demonstration, school and community gardens as well as in the development and implementation of educational efforts for the public at large. This position offers a dynamic opportunity for individuals passionate about horticulture, community development, and sustainable agriculture to make a meaningful impact in Dallas County. If you meet the qualifications and are enthusiastic about this role, we encourage you to apply. Please visit the Dallas County hiring site or click here to apply.

Brief Description

Under the direction of the Horticulture Extension Agent, this position will provide oversight of the overall Dallas Co. Master Gardener program and the annual Master Gardener School cohort for new volunteers; assist with and oversee/supervise volunteers in the development of demonstration, school and community gardens as well as in the development and implementation of educational efforts for the public at large. Work with Extension office support personnel and other county and district Extension agents.

Detailed Description

Designs, oversees, and assists program volunteers with the development and maintenance of gardens throughout Dallas County. Schedules volunteers and Master Gardeners to perform educational program activities, which will include weekend work sessions. Performs/assists with heavy outdoor tasks to accomplish projects. Oversees the Master Gardener school and. researches, collects, analyzes and prepares data from the MG Program for state and county reporting. Oversees the development of community and school gardens. Assists with public relations activities, hosts educational seminars, and works with agricultural and husbandry demonstration groups. Reaches out to schools and students to ensure they are properly advised and assisted in developing horticulture programs. Performs other duties as assigned.

Job Requirements

• Education and experience equivalent to an Associate’s degree from an accredited college or university with appropriate studies in agriculture, horticulture, and natural resources.
• Two (2) years of job-related experience.
• Demonstrated professional and technical competencies in volunteer management, horticulture and natural resources management and, to a lesser extent, in pedagogy, water quality and conservation.
• Demonstrated ability to integrate technology, information, knowledge, and skills in applying solutions to specific issues related to management of sustainable agriculture.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, with all audiences.
• Ability to operate a PC and job-related software.
• Able to plant shrubs and other plants, use gardening related hand tools and perform related labor; layout and design gardens and beds.
• Ability to efficiently multi-task.
• Must possess a valid Texas Driver’s License and good driving record.
• Will be required to provide a copy of 10-year driving history.
• Must maintain a good driving record and remain in compliance with Article II, Subdivision II of Chapter 90 of the Dallas County Code.
• Must be able to obtain applicator license within three (3) months.

Preferred but not required:

• Ability to operate mechanical equipment such as front end loaders, tractors, trenchers, and other job related equipment as appropriate.
• Standard office environment and heavy outdoor work in various difficult weather conditions.
• Requires periodic travel to off-site locations.
• Able to lift and carry up to 50 lbs. unassisted.
• Able to wear protective equipment such as dust masks, safety glasses and protective clothing, and use fertilizers, pesticides, and other chemicals.
• Able to work weekends.

Additional Details

An extensive pre-employment background investigation will be conducted on all applicants who have been offered a position with Dallas County. The hiring process involves successful completion of each step. The steps include: Criminal History Review, Traffic Violations Record, Review of Personal History Statement and Documents, Physical Examination, and Background Investigation.

Dallas County is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. AmeriCorps, Peace Corps, National Service Alumni volunteers, and persons with a criminal background are encouraged to apply.

Minimum Salary: $24.22
Maximum Salary: $30.22
Currency: US Dollar (USD)