Position Summary
The District Extension Director ( DED ) is a member of the Extension Leadership Team in the College of Agricultural & Environmental Sciences ( CAES ), at the University of Georgia, responsible for administering the Extension program in one of four districts across the state. The College is one of the largest colleges of agriculture in the nation and supports a $100.4 billion agricultural industry, the largest sector of the economy in the state of Georgia. For over 100 years, UGA Cooperative Extension has provided free, reliable, research-based information to farmers and businesses and has taught life skills and lessons to millions of young people.
This is a University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences 12-month Public Service faculty position located in the Northeast District of Georgia. To see the district map and counties visit: https://extension.uga.edu/about/districts—facilities—and-centers/northeast-district.html
The Southwest District of Georgia is comprised of 41 primarily rural counties including the larger cities of Valdosta and Albany. The Southwest District Extension Director is responsible for approximately 180 employees and oversees a budget of approximately $7 million. The District Headquarters office is located on the University of GA Campus in Tifton, Georgia. This position will lead the Southwest Extension District staff under the supervision of the Associate Dean for Extension and the Director of County Operations.
Special Instructions to Applicants
Applicant screening will begin immediately. Candidates are encouraged to submit their materials by November 15, 2026 to ensure review; however, screening will continue until the position is filled. Applicants should submit formal applications including a current resume, cover letter expressing their interest and qualifications for the position, and a one-page statement summarizing their philosophy for the position. Include names and addresses of four references (who will not be contacted without further correspondence with the applicant). Please direct questions about the position to Ms. Cheryl Poppell, Southeast District Extension Director, at [contact details available in the full listing] or [contact details available in the full listing].
Posting Details
Posting Number
F2847P
Working Title
District Extension Director - SW District
Department
CAES-Southwest District CES
About the University of Georgia
Chartered by the state of Georgia in 1785, the University of Georgia is the birthplace of public higher education in America and is the state’s flagship university (https://www.uga.edu/) . The proof is in our more than 240 years of academic and professional achievements and our continual commitment to higher education. UGA is currently ranked among the top 20 public universities in U.S. News & World Report. The University’s main campus is located in Athens, approximately 65 miles northeast of Atlanta, with extended campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton. UGA employs approximately 3,100 faculty and more than 7,700 full-time staff. The University’s enrollment exceeds 41,000 students including over 31,000 undergraduates and over 10,000 graduate and professional students. Academic programs reside in 19 schools and colleges, including our newly established School of Medicine.
About the College/Unit/Department
College/Unit/Department website
https://extension.uga.edu/
Posting Type
External
Retirement Plan
Employment Type
Employee
Benefits Eligibility
Benefits Eligible
Underutilization
Minorities & Females
Advertised Salary
Commensurate with Qualifications and Experience
Anticipated Start Date
03/01/2027
Effective End Date (for Limited-Term postings)
Job Posting Date
10/16/2026
Job Closing Date
Open until filled
Yes
Location of Vacancy
SW District
EEO Statement
The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status or other protected status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR ( [contact details available in the full listing] ).
USG Core Values Statement
The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 25 institutions of higher education and learning, as well the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy [contact details available in the full listing] .
Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 06.05 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom .
Position Details
Position Information
Classification Title
Assoc/Asst Dept Chair/Director/Head AC
FLSA
Faculty Rank
Senior Public Service Associate
Contract Type
Fiscal (12 mo.)
Tenure Status
Non-Tenure Track
Minimum Qualifications
Master’s degree from an accredited university in a field related to Cooperative Extension, Management and/or Public Administration.
Additional Requirements
See the University of Georgia Guidelines for Appointments and Promotions for Public Service and Outreach Academic Rank for information regarding the Public Service Faculty ranks.
Relevant/Preferred Education, Experience, Licensure, and/or Certification
Have the rank or be able to qualify for the rank of Senior Public Service Associate (or equivalent rank) at the University of Georgia. Doctorate highly preferred.
Preferred Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and/or Competencies
- Ability to provide strong visionary and progressive administrative leadership
- Substantial knowledge and understanding of Extension organization, operation, philosophy, and objectives