Principal Extension Specialist for Programming and Strategic Initiatives

Job Title
Principal Extension Specialist for Programming and Strategic Initiatives

Requisition Number
RE54406

Working Title

Department Name
81170:Program and Staff Development

Work Location
Lexington, KY

Grade Level
49

Salary Range
$72,405-119,496/year

Type of Position
Staff

Position Time Status
Full-Time

Required Education

PhD

Click here for more information about equivalencies:
https://hr.uky.edu/employment/working-uk/equivalencies

Required Related Experience

5 yrs

Required License/Registration/Certification

Driver’s License required

Physical Requirements

Lifting, pushing or pulling objects up to 50 lbs.

Shift

Primarily days, some possible evening and weekend activities.

Job Summary

This Principal Extension Specialist for Programming and Strategic Initiatives serves as a senior Extension leader advancing Cooperative Extension priorities through strategic program development, organizational leadership, grantsmanship, partnership building, research coordination, and personnel supervision. The position leads high-impact initiatives, fosters cross-sector collaboration, supports applied research and program evaluation, and strengthens Extension capacity through innovative programming, resource development, and operational leadership.

About the Role

Performs on par with faculty in program and project design, implementation, evaluation, and leadership. Exercises substantial independent judgment, develops innovative approaches to complex issues, and contributes to statewide and national leadership in Cooperative Extension. This position is soft-funded.

Why Join Us

At the Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment, you’ll find a community that values collaboration, growth, and recognition. Benefits of joining our team include:

• Exceptional benefits package.
• A formal mentoring program to support your professional development
• Access to a staff development fund for continued learning and skill building
• Dedicated staff recognition programs that celebrate your contributions
  
  

A shared commitment to making the University of Kentucky the University of, for, and with Kentucky.

Join us in shaping the future of teaching and learning—where innovation meets impact.

To find out more about Martin-Gatton CAFE and how the college supports the mission of this being the University of, for, and with Kentucky, Click Here.

Skills / Knowledge / Abilities

Does this position have supervisory responsibilities?
Yes

Preferred Education/Experience

PhD.

Deadline to Apply
05/21/2026

Our University Community

We value the well-being of each of our employees and are dedicated to creating a healthy place for everyone to work, learn and live. In the interest of maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our students, employees, patients and visitors, the University of Kentucky is a Tobacco & Drug Free campus.

The University follows both the federal and state Constitutions as well as all applicable federal and state laws on nondiscrimination. The University provides equal opportunities for qualified persons in all aspects of institutional operations and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnic origin, religion, creed, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status, uniformed service, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information or social or economic status.

Any candidate offered a position may be required to pass pre-employment screenings as mandated by University of Kentucky Human Resources. These screenings may include a national background check and/or drug screen.