The Extension Crop Production/Cropping Systems Specialist provides leadership for an interdisciplinary team to develop and deliver strong Extension and applied research programs focused primarily in row crop production and cropping systems for Kansas and the Central Great Plains.
The Extension Crop Production/Cropping Systems Specialist is a 12-month tenure-eligible position that provides leadership for an interdisciplinary team to develop and deliver strong Extension and applied research programs, with a 70% Extension and 30% Research appointment, focused primarily on row crop production and cropping systems for Kansas and the Central Great Plains.
The primary responsibilities of this individual are to develop educational programs for a broad clientele, including farmers, crop advisors, agri-businesses, agency personnel, and commodity groups. Evidence of Extension scholarship includes the development and participation in traditional educational meetings and workshops (field days, plot tours, crop schools, and update meetings), producing Extension publications and training materials, newsletters and news releases, and development and contribution to appropriate websites, social media, and other innovative information delivery methods.
The Extension Crop Production/Cropping Systems Specialist must also have an understanding and appreciation of the role of the state and regional specialists, and county/district extension agents in developing successful state, area, district, and county programs that have a positive impact. Additional interactions include colleagues in Biological and Agricultural Engineering, Agricultural Economics, Animal Science and Industry, Entomology, and Plant Pathology on cropping systems, soil and water management, enterprise profitability, and utilization of grains, oilseeds, and forages.
Central to the Crop Production/Cropping Systems program is developing a strong, grant-funded applied research program, which complements and informs the Extension program. This includes the training of graduate students and publication of research results. The specialist must be able to work effectively with a wide range of individuals and contribute to an environment that supports collegiality and teamwork.
The Department of Agronomy was established in 1906 to promote advances in agricultural practices in the state of Kansas. Advances throughout the history of the Department have had major impacts on transforming the bounty of the natural resources of Kansas into the present standard of living enjoyed by its people.
This position is On-site.
All employees must reside in the United States when they begin working to comply with state law. K-State is unable to provide remote or hybrid work opportunities for residents of the state of Idaho.
Minimum Qualifications:
The degree requirement is necessary for accreditation purposes and to ensure candidates possess the specialized knowledge, skills, and abilities that can only be attained through a formal educational program at this level.
Preferred Qualifications:
Additional Role Information:
Sponsorship eligibility:
This position is eligible for sponsorship
Applicants should complete the application process through K-State’s PageUp recruiting system at https://careers.k-state.edu to complete the application and upload the following:
Inquiries about the position should be directed to the search committee chair, Peter Tomlinson, at ptomlin@ksu.edu with subject line: Cropping System Extension/Research Faculty Search, or telephone: 785-477-2389.
Applications close on: January 30, 2026
Commensurate with experience
Kansas State University offers a supportive and inclusive community, dedicated to your professional growth. While specific benefits may vary by position, many roles come with comprehensive packages that support your well-being and work-life balance, including health and life insurance, retirement plans, and generous paid time off. To learn more about benefits that are available for various positions, visit our benefits overview page.
Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States at the time of employment.
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.
Some positions are eligible for remote or hybrid working arrangements. An employee who is working in a remote or hybrid capacity for K-State must reside within the United States in order to comply with all federal and state laws, filings, or tax requirements. Remote and hybrid work arrangements are not available for anyone who resides in the state of Idaho.
Kansas participates in the MakeMyMove program, which connects eligible newcomers with participating communities offering financial incentives, housing support, and local perks to help make your move easier and more rewarding. If relocating you can visit the site to apply online for the program incentives.
Upon acceptance of a contingent offer of employment, a candidate may be subject to a background check per K-State’s background check policy.
Kansas State University honors interview preferences for qualified applicants who are veterans or individuals with disabilities. Eligible applicants who meet the minimum qualifications, submit all required application materials, and submit required preference documentation by the closing date on the job advertisement will be granted a first-level interview.
The disability and veteran interview preferences do not apply to student employment positions, temporary positions, athletics positions, academic and administrative department heads*, positions that require licensure as a physician, and positions that require that the employee be admitted to practice law in Kansas.
*Heads of Departments refers to any individual holding a primary leadership role responsible for the overall strategic direction, management and operational oversight of a recognized academic or administrative unit within the university.
To learn more about interview preferences at K-State, please visit our interview preferences page.
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