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Extension Agent Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

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Extension Agent information

See Kansas salary details

$29.4K

$45.1K

$86.1K

How much do extension agent jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for extension agent in Kansas is $45,102.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31,700.00 and $43,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What degree do you have to have to be an extension agent?

To become an extension agent, a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as agriculture, horticulture, natural resources, or community development is typically required. Some positions may prefer or require a master's degree or additional certifications depending on the specialization and responsibilities.

What does an extension agent do?

An extension agent works for a county, region, or state and serves as an expert on industry advances in agriculture, economic growth, animal production, diet, nutrition, or community development. Your duties include developing and executing educational programs in your interest area. You plan programs that empower citizens to implement change in the community. Other responsibilities include creating and utilizing assessments to evaluate the impact of your programming. You may work as an educator with non-traditional learners, agricultural stakeholders, or environmental groups. You also develop and sustain volunteer programs. Extension agents speak at industry events and civic organization meetings as well.

What is an extension agent?

Extension Agents are professionals who work with local communities to provide educational programs and resources, often through universities or government agencies. They help individuals and groups improve their agricultural practices, health, youth development, and community well-being by sharing research-based information. Extension Agents often specialize in areas like agriculture, family and consumer sciences, 4-H youth development, or natural resources. Their work involves organizing workshops, field demonstrations, and providing one-on-one support to address local needs.

What is the difference between Extension Agent vs Agriculture Specialist?

AspectExtension AgentAgriculture Specialist
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in agriculture, education, or related fieldBachelor's or master's degree in agriculture or related discipline
Work EnvironmentCommunity-based, outdoor, educational settingsResearch facilities, farms, or corporate settings
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, government agencies, non-profitsResearch institutions, private companies, government agencies
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Extension Agents and Agriculture Specialists both work in agriculture-related fields, often with overlapping educational backgrounds. Extension Agents focus on community outreach, education, and applying research to help farmers and the public. Agriculture Specialists typically work in research, analysis, and technical support within research institutions or private sectors. While their roles differ in focus, both require similar credentials and are vital in advancing agricultural practices.

What are some common challenges extension agents face when working with diverse communities?

Extension Agents often work with a wide range of stakeholders, including farmers, youth, and local organizations, each with unique needs and perspectives. A common challenge is adapting educational programs to effectively engage diverse audiences, especially in areas with varying literacy levels or limited access to resources. Building trust and maintaining strong relationships within the community requires strong communication skills and cultural sensitivity. Extension Agents must also stay updated on the latest research and best practices to address evolving local issues.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an extension agent, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Extension Agent, you need a background in agriculture, education, or a related field—often with a bachelor's or master's degree—and strong knowledge of community outreach and program development. Familiarity with data collection tools, presentation software, and specialized agricultural technologies is typically required. Excellent communication, public speaking, and relationship-building skills help engage diverse communities and stakeholders. These skills are crucial for effectively delivering research-based information and fostering positive change within target populations.

How much do county extension agents make?

County extension agents typically earn a median annual salary of around $45,000 to $55,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Salaries can vary based on the specific region and the agency's budget, with some agents earning higher with advanced degrees or specialized skills in agriculture, community development, or education.
What are popular job titles related to Extension Agent jobs in Kansas? For Extension Agent jobs in Kansas, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Kansas are hiring for Extension Agent jobs? Cities in Kansas with the most Extension Agent job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Extension Agent jobs in KS? For Extension Agent jobs in KS, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Extension Agent job openings in Kansas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Part Time, and 50% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,102 per year, or $21.7 per hour.

Golden Prairie District Agriculture and Natural Resources Extension Agent

Kansas State University

Manhattan, KS • On-site

Other

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

About This Role

Extension agents are professional educators, community connectors and innovators who serve as a link between Kansas State University and communities across Kansas. Agents are jointly responsible to the director of KState Extension (represented by a designated administrator) and the local extension board.

  • Lead the development, implementation, and evaluation of research-based educational programming related to agriculture and natural resources. Programming may include but is not limited to: agronomy; livestock production; agricultural economics, management, and public policy; and natural resources conservation and environmental stewardship.

  • Share responsibility for 4-H youth development programming related to agriculture and natural resources. This will include, but is not limited to, youth livestock and agricultural safety programs.

  • Share responsibility for community vitality programming that helps our communities become better places to live, work, and play by strengthening social, civic, economic, and technological capacity through leadership development and civic engagement.

  • Successful extension programs require agents to:

  • Identify local needs and emerging issues related to KState Extension's five critical issues (water and natural resources; community vitality; health; developing tomorrow's leaders; and global food systems) by engaging with program development committees and other community organizations and professionals.

  • Design appropriate educational strategies to respond to emerging needs and engage clientele by aligning with the imperatives of the KState Next-Gen Strategic Plan. Strategies might include educational programming in a community-based setting; events and activities that provide experiential learning opportunities; use of innovative technologies; individual educational consultations; and group facilitation.

  • Collaborate with local partners to meet community and programmatic needs.

  • Recruit and manage volunteers to further the reach and impact of extension programming.

  • Develop and implement strategies to serve all community audiences.

  • Collect and communicate evidence of educational program impact.

  • Cultivate expertise in a subject matter competency area by engaging as a member of a Program Focus Team.

  • Pursue internal and external funding to support educational programming.

  • Serve as a member of the Golden Prairie District team, cooperating in the planning and delivery of district-wide programming and related events.

About Us

K-State Extension connects Kansans to research-based information and education that helps individuals, families, businesses and communities thrive. It is a partnership between Kansas State University and federal, state, and county governments. Through local extension offices, K-State Extension provides practical solutions and programs in areas such as agriculture, health, youth development, and community vitality. Learn more at extension.k-state.edu.

Extension agents are Kansas State University faculty working throughout the state to serve the needs of local communities.

Golden Prairie DistrictThe Golden Prairie District is comprised of Trego, Gove, and Logan counties in northwest Kansas. The district has a combined population of approximately 9,000 residents. It is home to ten rural communities and six school districts.The district's staff consists of three agents, one 4-H program manager, and three office professionals.Golden Prairie District is home to more than 1,000 farms. The district's top agricultural products (by sales) are wheat, corn, and cattle/calves.

Location and Worksite Option

This agent will serve the people of Golden Prairie District. The Golden Prairie Extension District has offices in Grainfield, Oakley, and WaKeeney. This agent's primary office will be in Grainfield, KS.

Work for this position is on site in the Gove County Extension office and at locations throughout the district.

This position will require occasional overnight travel and is expected to host and attend events during some evenings and weekends.Reimbursement for travel and subsistence related to achieving program objectives will be provided.

What You'll Need to Succeed

Minimum Qualifications:

Education and experience

  • Bachelor's Degree. The degree requirement is necessary to ensure candidates possess the specialized knowledge and skills for the role and can credibly convey research concepts required to deliver extension services. These competencies are typically developed and validated only through a formal degree.

  • At least 12 credit hours of academic coursework or six months of professional experience related directly to the primary programming responsibilities (e.g., agricultural education, livestock production, agronomy).
  • Demonstrated academic and/or professional achievement (minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75 on a 4.0 scale or evidence of progressively responsible professional roles).

  • Experience delivering information, training, or education to groups or individuals, either in person or through media.

  • Leadership experience in supervisory or informal roles.

Licenses and certifications

  • Must have access to a personal vehicle and the ability to obtain/maintain a valid driver's license

Additional expectations

  • This role will require the ability to work with people from various backgrounds and a commitment to supporting and enhancing KState's initiative for access and opportunity.

  • Extension agents work a flexible schedule which will include nights, weekends, and overnight travel.

Sponsorship eligibility

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

Preferred Qualifications:

Education and experience

  • Two or more years of professional experience.

  • Master's degree.

  • Experience working with youth across multiple age groups in both formal and informal settings.

  • Understanding of educational program design, promotion, implementation, and evaluation.

  • Experience with volunteer recruitment, support, and management.

  • Knowledge of adult and youth teaching/learning processes.

  • Experience seeking and administering external grant funding.

Skills and attributes

  • Commitment to personal and professional development.

  • Competence using electronic communication and computer applications to fulfill programming responsibilities.

  • Self-motivation and ability to work with minimal supervision while balancing multiple projects.

  • Skills in group facilitation.

  • Ability to communicate effectively with both English and Spanish-speaking learners.

How to Apply

Please submit the following documents:

  • a cover letter,
  • a resume,
  • and a copy of academic transcripts showing degree(s) received.
    • An unofficial transcript is sufficient.

You will also be asked to provide the names and email addresses of three professional references.

Application Deadline

  • Applications will be accepted until August 26, 2026.
  • Interviews will be held on September 9, 2026; selected candidates will be notified by September 4, 2026.

Salary, Benefits and Professional Development

  • Salary commensurate with professional experience and available funding as negotiated by the regional extension director, the local extension board, and the applicant. The anticipated hiring salary range is $47,500-$70,000.
  • Extension agents are Kansas State University educators and have the Board of Regents retirement plan; eligibility for health and life insurance; and earn vacation and sick leave. See a complete list of benefits on theK-State Employee Benefits website.
  • Reimbursement for travel related to achieving program objectives.
  • New agents will be provided with comprehensive Early Career Professional Development training throughout their onboarding period. This series will include virtual and in-person training and networking opportunities.
  • Tuition assistance is available to full-time employees and their spouse/dependents.