Principal Extension Specialist for Programming and Strategic Initiatives

University of Kentucky

Equal Employment Opportunity/M/F/disability/protected veteran status.

Posting Details Posting Details Job TitlePrincipal Extension Specialist for Programming and Strategic InitiativesRequisition NumberRE54406Working TitleDepartment Name81170:Program and Staff DevelopmentWork LocationLexington, KYGrade Level49Salary Range$72,405-119,496/yearType of PositionStaffPosition Time Status Full-TimeRequired EducationPhDClick here for more information about equivalencies:https://hr.uky.edu/employment/working-uk/equivalenciesRequired Related Experience5 yrsRequired License/Registration/CertificationDriver’s License requiredPhysical RequirementsLifting, pushing or pulling objects up to 50 lbs.ShiftPrimarily days, some possible evening and weekend activities.Job SummaryThis 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 RolePerforms 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 UsAt 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 / AbilitiesDoes this position have supervisory responsibilities? YesPreferred Education/ExperiencePhD.Deadline to Apply05/21/2026Our University CommunityWe 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.

Posting Specific Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

1. * How many years of experience do you have with extramural funding development, grants management, sponsored projects, or compliance oversight?
   • None
   • More than 0, up through 1 year
   • More than 1 year, up through 3 years
   • More than 3 years, up through 5 years
   • More than 5 years
2. * How many years of experience do you have developing or supporting research-based educational programming, program evaluation, or applied research initiatives?
   • None
   • More than 0, up through 1 year
   • More than 1 year, up through 3 years
   • More than 3 years, up through 5 years
   • More than 5 years
3. * How many years of experience do you have coordinating research activities, including research compliance and/or IRB-related processes?
   • None
   • More than 0, up through 1 year
   • More than 1 year, up through 3 years
   • More than 3 years, up through 5 years
   • More than 5 years
4. * How many years of experience do you have building partnerships and collaborating across institutions, agencies, or stakeholder groups?
   • None
   • More than 0, up through 1 year
   • More than 1 year, up through 3 years
   • More than 3 years, up through 5 years
   • More than 5 years
5. * Do you have a valid driver's license and are you able to drive?
   • Yes
   • No

Applicant Documents
Required Documents

1. Resume
2. Cover Letter
3. Academic Transcript

Optional Documents

PI284594144