About This Role:

The Western Region Extension Director provides overall administrative leadership for program, personnel, and budget, working with local unit boards and agents in Western Kansas.

Responsibilities will include;

• Developing close working relationships with elected extension boards in the hiring, supervising, evaluating, and supporting of extension faculty and staff at the local level.
• Providing leadership to the planning, development, implementation, assessment, and evaluation of extension educational programming for the Western Region.
• As a representative of the Director, and in cooperation with local extension boards and county commissions, developing budgets and ensuring compliance with Kansas Extension Council and District laws. This position provides administrative leadership to the following units: Clark County, Comanche County, Ford County, Golden Prairie District, Grant County, Grey County, Greeley County, Hamilton County, Hodgeman County, Kearney County, Kiowa County, Meade County, Morton County, Pawnee County, Rawlins County, Stanton County, Sunflower District, Thomas County, Twin Creeks District, Walnut Creek District, West Plains District, Wichita County, Wild West District.
• Supporting professional development and personal growth of the faculty and staff in the delivery of high-quality, relevant, and effective extension educational programming.

Why Join Us:

K-State Research and Extension improves Kansans’ lives, livelihoods and communities through education, research, engagement and leadership. With scientists, educators and volunteers in each of the state’s 105 counties, our professionals strive to make the university’s research and scientific accomplishments accessible and relevant to every household.

We accomplish this through programming and educational resources designed to address the state’s grand challenges. We focus on issues such as conserving Kansas’ water and natural resources, advancing agriculture and food systems, developing the state’s future leaders and helping Kansans thrive through economic, health and community enriching efforts.  To learn more, https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/.

Kansas State University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes health insurance, life insurance, retirement plans, paid time off – vacation, sick, and holidays. To see what benefits are available, please visit: https://www.k-state.edu/hcs/benefits.

We Support Diversity and Inclusion:

Kansas State University embraces diversity and inclusion. The university actively seeks individuals who foster a collegial environment and cooperative interactions with coworkers, students, and others. The University is dedicated to promoting the Principles of Community.

Worksite Options:

Home office is in Garden City, KS. This position is eligible for hybrid and/or remote worksite. Work may be performed on employer premises, designated assignment location and/or performed fully in a remote capacity.  An employee who is working remotely must reside within the United States in order to comply with all federal and state laws, filings, or tax requirements.

Visit this link for K-State’s guidance and policies on remote work and flexible work arrangements. Remote work agreements are required for all flexible work arrangements and are subject to review.

What You’ll Need to Succeed:

Minimum Qualifications:

• Master's degree and five years of relevant experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Ability to work within a diverse and multi-cultural environment.
• Demonstrated leadership skills.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills, the ability to resolve conflict, and the ability to work effectively in team settings.
• Passion for the delivery of high-quality Extension educational programs with a focus on the constituents.
• Academic training or successful professional experience in administration, budgeting, personnel supervision, program development, and program evaluation.
• County Extension or Extension District administrative experience.
• Demonstrated excellence in innovative extension educational program delivery methods and use of technology.
• Experience with K-State Research and Extension.

Other Requirements:

• Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States at the time of employment.
• Valid driver's license and ability to travel across the State of Kansas on a regular basis.

How to Apply:

Please submit the following documents through the K-State Career’s site:

1. Letter of interest
2. Resume or Curriculum Vitae
3. Names, emails, and phone numbers for three professional references.

Questions may be directed to Aliesa Good, search chair, amgood@ksu.edu.  

Screening of Applications Begins:

Immediately and continues until position is filled. For best consideration, apply by April 12, 2024.

Anticipated Hiring Pay Range:

$95,000 - $145,000 

Equal Employment Opportunity:

Kansas State University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, age, national origin, disability or status as a protected veteran.

Background Screening Statement:

In connection with your application for employment, Kansas State University will procure a Background Screen on you as part of the process of considering your candidacy as an employee.