State Specialist for Applied Design

Kentucky State University • Frankfort, KY

4h

About The Position

The State Specialist of Applied Design is a key member of Kentucky State University’s Family and Consumer Science (FCS) team. This position advances the practical application of creative, technical, and problem-solving skills in the development of functional and aesthetically sound products, environments, and resources. Through training, technical assistance, and the coordination of statewide programs, the State Specialist empowers stakeholders across the Commonwealth of Kentucky to apply creative arts and user-centered design approaches to improve livelihoods, strengthen families and communities, foster entrepreneurship skills, and support youth development.

The successful candidate will collaborate with researchers and Extension staff to develop program curricula, demonstrations, and visual and digital communication tools, as well as other applied products across multiple media, including textiles. These efforts support the translation of ideas into effective, audience-specific solutions. The State Specialist will also integrate applied design principles across diverse contexts, including living environments, human nutrition and health, formal and non-formal education settings, and income-generating activities.

Requirements

• Knowledge of applied design fields such as visual communication, human-centered design, experiential learning, product or instructional design, or community-based design.
• Knowledge of adult learning theory, participatory education, and culturally responsive program delivery.
• Familiarity with therapeutic or wellness-oriented applications of design (e.g., sensory tools, environmental design, activity-based interventions).
• Knowledge of microenterprise, creative industries, or design-based income-generation opportunities relevant to various communities.
• Understanding of Cooperative Extension’s mission, structure, and role in serving all communities
• Proficiency in design software and tools (e.g., Canva, Adobe Pro, Adobe Creative Suite, digital illustration, layout, multimedia, prototyping tools).
• Strong communication skills—visual, written, and oral—with an ability to work effectively with various audiences and staff levels.
• Project management and organizational skills, including the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
• Ability to collaborate across disciplines and build productive partnerships with Extension agents, faculty, and community organizations.
• Ability to work independently, follow guidance and procedures, and provide statewide leadership and support.
• Strong interpersonal skills, creativity, technological skills, and attention to detail.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality of records and information.
• Ability to perform simple accounting procedures, maintain records, and manage inventory.
• Master’s degree is required with some coursework related to design, sociology, business or related fields.
• At least 3 years of experience working with various communities and stakeholders in extension, education, or non-profit settings.
• Travel required.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with program planning, training, and event logistics is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership, training, and technical assistance to Extension faculty and staff in design thinking, visual communication, curriculum design, graphic design, and hands-on learning tool development.
• Identify and promote evidence-based design approaches for developing functional products that strengthen individuals, organizations, and communities according to their purposes and needs.
• Develop, collaboratively implement, and evaluate programs that utilize applied design principles to drive economic development, strengthen communities, and provide life and career skills for personal success through the delivery of research-based information across the Commonwealth.
• Produce scholarly and creative outputs—including publications, applied projects, and presentations—that contribute to Extension scholarship and applied design practice.
• Write success stories, track program contacts, and prepare reports for state (e.g. Kentucky Reporting System) and federal agencies that describe programmatic accomplishments and challenges.
• Participate in various Cooperative Extension programs and committees, as assigned
• Seek and manage internal and external funding to advance applied design programming, including grants, partnerships, and collaborative projects.
• Represent Kentucky State University Cooperative Extension at state, regional, and national levels through networks, committees, and professional associations related to applied design.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by management.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Number of Employees: 501-1,000 employees