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.

About the Position

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%): Develop and deliver research-based educational programs that support Southern Nevada's commercial horticulture industry and promote sustainable landscape management in arid environments.
*Applied Research (25%): Conduct applied research and demonstration projects that address industry needs related to workforce development, water-use efficiency, and plant health. Identify and pursue extramural funding opportunities to support commercial horticulture education and research initiatives. Publish peer-reviewed articles, Extension bulletins, and other scholarly and educational materials.
*Service and Professional Engagement (5%): Contribute to university, Extension, and professional service activities while maintaining strong industry partnerships

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.

Compensation

Lecturer II / Teaching Assistant Professor (Non-tenure track)

Assistant Professor (Tenure track)

To view the salary schedule for this position, please visit: Salary Schedules and select Academic Faculty. Salary is competitive and commensurate with related education and experience. The University provides a clear promotion pathway for teaching faculty that includes regular review and base salary increases upon promotion. https://www.unr.edu/hr/compensation-evaluation/salary-schedules

Requirements

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

• 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.