Extension Associate

About This Role

This position provides leadership in the development, implementation, and evaluation of research-based food safety extension programming, training, and outreach initiatives. The role collaborates with faculty, staff, and stakeholders to translate applied research findings into practical education programs and technical resources. The position also directs the management, compliance, and operational oversight of the Kansas Value Added Foods Lab (KVAFL), supporting applied research, product development, and industry engagement activities.

About Us

The department is committed to providing high-quality education, advancing innovation in grain and food science research, and building strong industry partnerships to meet the evolving needs of global food systems.

Our faculty includes several current and former Grain and Food Science members who are ranked among the world's top 2% of researchers in a 2020 Stanford University study.

For more than 110 years, Kansas State University has been a global leader in flour milling and industry-focused education. Since 1951, it has remained one of the few institutions worldwide to offer four-year bachelor's degrees in Bakery Science and Management, Feed and Pet Food Science, Food Science, and Milling Science and Management.

Our internationally recognized graduate program also provides a wide range of opportunities for both applied and fundamental research, leading to master's and doctoral degrees in grain science, food science, and related fields.

Worksite Description

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.

What You'll Need to Succeed

Minimum Qualifications:

* Bachelor's degree

* Three years of relevant experience.

* Valid driver's license

* Education beyond the minimum degree requirement may count toward required experience if deemed relevant by the hiring manager. This degree requirement ensures candidates possess foundational knowledge in agricultural systems, cooperative management and public outreach. These competencies are typically developed and rigorously validated only through the comprehensive curriculum and intensive experiential learning inherent in a formal degree program.

Preferred Qualifications:

* M.S. in Food Science or closely related field

* Five or more years of relevant experience

* Demonstrated excellence and expertise in food safety extension and outreach programs

* Knowledge of and /or experience performing methods for food analysis

* Excellent written and verbal communication skills

* Knowledge or experience in laboratory administration, including budget, oversight and management

* Demonstrated experience in developing and updating organizational webpages and use of social media.

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:

* K-State online Page Up application

Resume

Contact information for three references

Application Window

Applications close on:06/07/2026

Anticipated Hiring Pay Range

$61,591.00-$81,000

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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 and Sponsorship:

Employees must be authorized to work in the United States at the time of employment. International candidates who require employer-sponsored work authorization are welcome to apply. Eligibility for visa sponsorship depends on several factors, including but not limited to, the job's occupational requirements, specific duties, wage level, the candidate's qualifications (such as degree field) and available departmental resources. As a result, not all positions or applicants will be eligible for sponsorship.

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.

Remote and Hybrid work options:

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…