Consumer Horticulture Extension Associate

Kansas State University’s Horticulture & Natural Resources seeks a Consumer Horticulture Extension Associate to lead statewide education, outreach, and plant trials, support Extension staff/volunteers, and translate research for Kansas residents.

  • 520482
  • Other, Kansas
  • Horticulture Natural Resources
  • Staff Full Time (Unclassified - Term)
  • Closing on: Sep 29 2025
  • Hybrid and/or Remote eligible

About This Role

The successful candidate will serve as a key liaison between campus specialists and county-based Extension staff, helping to translate horticultural science into practical, accessible information for Kansas residents. This position will also contribute to program reporting, data collection, and coordination efforts that support the consumer horticulture program. The position is eligible for remote work or will be based on the K-State campus in Manhattan, Kansas, with travel expected to support statewide programming.

About Us

The Department of Horticulture and Natural Resources originated in 1871 making it one of the first and oldest departments at Kansas State University. Today, as our mission statement underscores, we are committed to educating outstanding undergraduate and graduate students, contributing significant research results to solve problems associated with our disciplines, and providing our constituencies across the state, region and nation with excellent extension programs.
Our department conducts its activities at a variety of locations with facilities on the main campus in Manhattan and outlying research and education centers.
Salary is commensurate with qualifications and experience. Kansas State University offers a comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, retirement plans, and professional development support.

Worksite Description

This position is Hybrid and/or Remote eligible. Hybrid or Remote as long as the candidate lives in KS

What You'll Need to Succeed

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree
  • Three years of relevant experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Master’s degree in Horticulture, Plant Science, or a related field.
  • Three years of experience with Extension programming or public education.
  • Three years of experience in consumer horticulture extension and public engagement.
  • Strong written and oral communication skills.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team.
  • Familiarity with digital content creation, including websites, newsletters, and social media.
  • Experience working with Extension Master Gardener programs or other volunteer-based initiatives.
  • Applied research experience in plant trials or cultivar evaluation.
  • Experience in adult education, community engagement, or working with a variety of audiences.
  • Experience with program planning, implementation, evaluation, impact reporting, or data-driven decision-making in an Extension or outreach setting.

Additional licenses / registrations / certifications:

  • Valid driver’s license and willingness to travel throughout Kansas.

Sponsorship eligibility:

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship

How to Apply

Please submit the following documents:

  • Cover letter addressing qualifications and interest in the position
  • Resume or curriculum vitae
  • Statement of Extension philosophy and goals (1–2 pages)
  • Contact information for three professional references

Application Window

Applications close on: September 29, 2025

Anticipated Hiring Pay Range

$61,600 - $78,000

 

 

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Why Join Us:

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.

Work Authorization: 

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States at the time of employment.

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:

Upon acceptance of a contingent offer of employment, a candidate may be subject to a background check per K-State’s background check policy.

Interview Preference:

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 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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