Extension Associate – 4H Aquatic Science

Kentucky State University

Extension Associate developing and delivering educational programs in Aquatic Science and Youth Development for Kentucky State University. Collaborating with various community partners and stakeholders across Kentucky.

Posted 7/9/2026full-timeFrankfort • Kentucky • 🇺🇸 United StatesJuniorMid-LevelWebsite

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Develop, implement, and evaluate statewide 4-H Aquatic Science educational programs that promote youth development through hands-on learning experiences.
Plan and deliver educational programs using a variety of instructional methods, including classroom instruction, demonstrations, workshops, field activities, camps, conferences, webinars, and other educational formats.
Develop curriculum, lesson plans, educational publications, fact sheets, instructional videos, digital resources, and other educational materials that support Extension programming.
Coordinate and conduct aquatic science educational activities related to aquaculture, aquaponics, hydroponics, fisheries, sport fishing, water quality, environmental stewardship, and related disciplines.
Collaborate with county Extension personnel to strengthen local programming and expand educational opportunities for youth.
Develop and conduct in-school and out-of-school educational programs that promote leadership development, life skills, and career awareness through aquatic science education.
Coordinate, plan, conduct, and evaluate professional development opportunities for county Extension personnel related to aquatic science and youth programming.
Develop and deliver presentations for Extension agent trainings, conferences, workshops, and stakeholder meetings.
Use appropriate technology platforms to develop and deliver educational webinars, online learning modules, educational videos, social media content, and other digital educational resources.
Evaluate educational programs using appropriate assessment methods and maintain records demonstrating program outcomes and impacts.
Develop partnerships with schools, governmental agencies, nonprofit organizations, industry representatives, and community organizations to strengthen Extension programming.
Prepare competitive grant proposals and seek external funding opportunities to support aquatic science and youth development programming.
Assist in administering externally funded projects and ensure compliance with grant requirements.
Prepare reports, publications, educational materials, abstracts, and other scholarly or Extension publications that communicate program outcomes and educational information.
Present educational programs and program results at professional meetings, conferences, workshops, and Extension events.
Collaborate with faculty, Extension specialists, researchers, and staff on interdisciplinary educational initiatives.
Mentor undergraduate students, interns, volunteers, and other program participants as assigned.
Maintain effective working relationships with University personnel, county Extension offices, stakeholders, youth participants, volunteers, and community partners.
Maintain appropriate records and prepare reports required by Kentucky State University, Cooperative Extension, and funding agencies.
Participate in departmental meetings, University committees, professional development activities, and other institutional initiatives.
Perform other duties as assigned in support of the mission of Kentucky State University and the Cooperative Extension Program.

Requirements

What you’ll need

Master's degree in Aquaculture, Aquatic Science, Fisheries, Education, Agriculture, Natural Resources, Youth Development, Environmental Science, or closely related field is required.
Doctorate (Ph.D. or Ed.D.) in a related discipline is preferred.
Experience developing and delivering educational programs for youth, Extension audiences, schools, or community organizations is preferred.
Experience developing educational curricula, instructional materials, and digital learning resources is preferred.
Experience preparing grant proposals and managing externally funded projects is preferred.
Experience presenting educational programs, conducting workshops, or providing professional development is preferred.
Experience working collaboratively with public agencies, educational institutions, nonprofit organizations, or community partners is preferred.
Valid driver's license is required.
Ability to travel throughout Kentucky and occasionally outside the state as required for Extension programming, conferences, and professional development.
Ability to obtain and maintain any certifications or training required by Kentucky State University, the Cooperative Extension Program, or funding agencies.

Benefits

Comp & perks

Standard Work Hours: 37.5 hours per week
Full-Time Employment

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills & Tools

Aquatic ScienceCurriculum DevelopmentInstructional Material DesignProgram EvaluationDigital Learning Resource DevelopmentWorkshop FacilitationProfessional Development TrainingYouth Development ProgrammingAquacultureEnvironmental Stewardship

Soft Skills

CollaborationMentoringCommunicationLeadershipRelationship Building

Certifications

Valid Driver's License