STEPS Program Coordinator II

Job Title
STEPS Program Coordinator II

Requisition Number
TE09336

Department Name
81024: UK Equine Programs

Work Location
Lexington, KY

Salary Range
$25/hour

Type of Position
Temporary

Position Time Status
Full-Time

Required Education

Master’s Degree or 18 hours of graduate coursework equine-related science, business, or education program.

Required Related Experience

Required License/Registration/Certification

Physical Requirements

Ability to lift up to 25 lbs

Shift

Full time 40 hours per week (day shift)

Job Summary

The STEPS Program Coordinator II plays a vital role in supporting student success within the Equine Science and Management (ESMA) degree program through career mentorship, internship program administration, industry engagement, and instruction. This position serves as the instructor of record for career-focused curriculum that prepares students for professional pathways in the equine industry.

This role provides individualized career guidance, coordinates experienctal learning opportunities, and strenghens connections between students, equine and equine – affiliated businesses. The ideal candidate brings demonstrated expertise in careers and professional opportunities within equine agriculture and related industries.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide individualized career and professional mentorship to approximately 125 ESMA students annually, including one-on-one advising, career planning, and ongoing support
• Coordinate and manage the ESMA career mentorship program, including communication, resources, and guidance for additional career mentors
• Administer the ESMA Internship Program, including maintaining internship databases, assisting with student placements, and supporting internship hosts
• Develop and maintain relationships with equine industry and equine-affiliated business partners to expand internship and career opportunities
• Track, analyze, and report internship data to support program assessment and decision-making
• Serve as instructor of record for career-focused curriculum, including course design, delivery, grading, and student assessment
• Facilitate internship-related coursework, including learning contracts, orientations, and student engagement
• Plan and execute student-centered events such as internship showcases, career fairs, and other program initiatives
• Lead student communication efforts, including weekly newsletters, SharePoint resources, and program-wide updates
• Serve as a point of contact for student inquiries, including managing shared email accounts and fostering connections between students, faculty, and staff
• Participate in departmental and university service as needed

Passionate about shaping the future of the equine industry? Apply today!

Skills / Knowledge / Abilities

Good communication skills for this role are imperative. Ability to work well with others and provide a positive environment for students and co-workers. Desire to work as a team when needed but also can work independently with little oversight to complete a task. Good computer skills-proficient in basic software.

Does this position have supervisory responsibilities?
No

Preferred Education/Experience

Experience with career development, teaching and/or program management.
Experience in equine agriculture, equine business operations, or industry workforce development, with demonstrated knowledge of career pathways in equine and equine-affiliated industries.

Deadline to Apply
05/15/2026

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.