Extension Assistant Professor and Program Director, Florida Master Naturalist Program

University of Florida; Gainesville (FL); On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Florida is seeking an Extension Assistant Professor and Program Director for the Florida Master Naturalist Program. This role involves over 80% Extension and 20% teaching responsibilities in the Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation. The successful candidate will manage a network of 160 instructors and ensure the curriculum remains relevant.

Applicants should have a Ph.D. in wildlife ecology, strong collaboration skills, and experience with educational programs. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to conservation efforts while teaching courses on Florida’s ecosystems.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. degree (or foreign equivalent) in a relevant discipline.
• Knowledge of natural ecosystems and conservation issues in the southeastern United States.
• Strong collaboration and leadership skills.

Responsibilities

• Provide 80% Extension and 20% Teaching responsibilities.
• Oversee all aspects of FMNP, including personnel and finances.
• Manage a network of approximately 160 instructors.

Skills

Collaboration skills

Leadership experience

Knowledge of conservation issues

Education

Ph.D. in wildlife ecology, forestry, biology, or a relevant discipline

Job description

Extension Assistant Professor and Program Director, Florida Master Naturalist Program

Job No: 540351
Work Type: Full Time
Location: Main Campus (Gainesville, FL)
Categories: Biology/Life Science, Agricultural Sciences
Department: 60470000 - AG-WILDLIFE ECOLOGY - CONSERV

Job Description

The Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences is creating an environment that affirms community across all dimensions. The Florida Master Naturalist Program (FMNP) is an adult education program for individuals 18 and older, developed by the University of Florida/IFAS. Its mission is to promote awareness, understanding, and respect of Florida's natural world among citizens and visitors. The program consistently graduates more than 1,000 participants per year and its instructors share their knowledge to contribute to conservation efforts.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Provide 80% Extension and 20% Teaching responsibilities in the Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation.
• Oversee all aspects of the FMNP, including personnel, partnerships, finances, program registration, and an active Advisory Board.
• Manage a network of approximately 160 instructors: recruit, train, support, recognize, and incentivize them to deliver FMNP courses consistently.
• Keep FMNP curricula relevant by updating, revising, and creating new courses and educational opportunities.
• Maintain databases and quantify program success and impacts, including instructor, graduate, course, and evaluation metrics.
• Apply for grants and conduct fundraising to support the FMNP and maintain finances for instructors and participants.
• Teach the undergraduate course Florida Environments (WIS 2000), a 3-credit course based on FMNP core courses (Coastal, Freshwater, and Upland Systems).

Required Qualifications

• Ph.D. degree (or foreign equivalent) in wildlife ecology, forestry, biology, or a relevant discipline.
• Knowledge of natural ecosystems, species, and conservation issues in the southeastern United States.
• Strong collaboration skills and demonstrated leadership experience.
• Experience instructing FMNP courses or similar programs is required.
• Experience managing educational programs and partnerships is preferred.
• Willingness to travel as needed and support the mission of the Land‑Grant university system.
• Commitment to UF core values.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with grant writing and fundraising for educational or conservation programs.
• Familiarity with current conservation issues affecting Florida.
• Ability to work effectively with employees and colleagues.

Expected Salary

Commensurate with education and experience.

Applications Close

August 14, 2026

Our Commitment

The University of Florida is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.