Position Description

The University of Nevada, Reno Extension invites applications for a Lecturer II/Teaching Assistant Professor/Assistant Professor, Commercial Horticulture Specialist position (full-time) serving Southern Nevada’s dynamic and growing commercial horticulture industry. This position is located in Las Vegas, NV and reports to the Southern Area Director.

This faculty position provides an exciting opportunity to develop and deliver impactful educational programs, conduct applied research, and collaborate with industry professionals to advance sustainable landscape management in arid environments. The successful candidate will play a vital role in strengthening workforce knowledge, enhancing plant health, and supporting the long-term economic viability of Southern Nevada’s commercial horticulture sector.

The Commercial Horticulture Specialist will develop and deliver research-based educational programming and applied research that addresses current and emerging needs of the commercial horticulture industry. Programs will focus on:

  • Workforce development and training
  • Plant health and integrated landscape management
  • Integrated pest management
  • Sustainable landscape practices for arid environments
  • Best management practices for commercial horticulture operations and food production

This position serves a diverse clientele including commercial landscape professionals, arborists and urban forestry professionals, irrigation specialists, nursery and greenhouse operators, municipal and institutional landscape managers, industry organizations and stakeholders, and community members.

Position Responsibilities

  • Extension Programming and Outreach (70%)
  • Applied Research (25%)
  • Service and Professional Engagement (5%)

Required Qualifications

Required Qualifications

Lecturer II - Master's degree in horticulture, plant sciences, agronomy, agriculture, natural resources, environmental sciences, Extension education, or a closely related field.

Teaching Assistant Professor / Assistant Professor - Ph.D. degree in horticulture, plant sciences, agronomy, agriculture, natural resources, environmental sciences, Extension education, or a closely related field.

Demonstrated knowledge of commercial horticulture, landscape management, irrigation systems, plant health, or related disciplines.

Experience developing and delivering educational programs, training, outreach, or technical assistance to diverse audiences.

Effective written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.

Ability to work collaboratively with industry professionals, community partners, and stakeholders.

This position requires candidates to complete a fingerprinting/background check.

Preferred Qualifications

Preferred Qualifications

Ph.D. in horticulture, plant sciences, agriculture, natural resources, Extension education, or a related field.

Experience in Extension, outreach, applied research, or other non-formal educational environments.

Knowledge of horticultural production, food production, integrated pest management, and landscape management practices in arid and desert environments.

Experience with irrigation efficiency, water conservation, urban horticulture, arboriculture, or sustainable landscape management.

Demonstrated ability to secure external funding and build partnerships with industry, government agencies, and community organizations.

Travel Requirements

Work a flexible schedule, with periodic evening and weekend work.

Occasional travel throughout the state to assist with multi-county or statewide efforts related to subject matter expertise or attend area and statewide Extension meetings.

This position involves both office and field environments.

Driver’s license or alternate transportation required?

yes

UNR Extension

Full Time

 Website