Assistant Director, Research Centers & Operations

Michigan State University College of Engineering; East Lansing (MI); On-site; USD 120,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

Michigan State University College of Engineering seeks an Assistant Director of Research Centers to oversee operations supporting the university's research, teaching, and Extension missions. The role coordinates with the Associate Director of AgBioResearch, leads long-term infrastructure planning, and ensures centers operate safely and efficiently in alignment with ABR and CANR goals.

Responsibilities include strategic oversight of ANRREC Centers, supervising farm managers, managing budgets,

Qualifications

Responsibilities

• Supervise farm managers, including facilitating performance evaluations, workload planning, hiring recommendations, and professional development.
• Coordinate equipment, supplies, labor, and operational needs to ensure efficient and reliable farm operations.
• Oversee operational budgets for each Center in collaboration with financial officers.
• Develop and implement revenue-generating strategies that support balanced and positive budgets.
• Track financial performance metrics and ensure transparent reporting.
• Lead capital improvement planning, prioritization, and funding requests.
• Oversee cropping plans, land use decisions, and resource allocation to support research, teaching, and Extension needs.
• Contribute to long-term facilities planning, equipment modernization, and sustainability initiatives.
• Lead planning for emerging issues, infrastructure needs, and long‑term farm sustainability.
• Contribute to the mentoring and professional development of participants in the ANRREC Administrative Fellowship Program.
• Support staff development across the Centers.
• Actively participate in ANRREC leadership activities, including regular meetings, programmatic discussions, field days, and stakeholder events.
• Provide clear communication and timely updates to ABR leadership and CANR administration.
• Partner with the CANR Safety Officer and relevant EHS and ABR personnel to ensure full compliance with safety regulations and operational best practices.
• Monitor safety performance metrics and implement continuous improvement strategies.

Job description

Michigan State University College of Engineering seeks an Assistant Director of Research Centers to oversee operations supporting the university's research, teaching, and Extension missions. The role coordinates with the Associate Director of AgBioResearch, leads long-term infrastructure planning, and ensures centers operate safely and efficiently in alignment with ABR and CANR goals.

Responsibilities include strategic oversight of ANRREC Centers, supervising farm managers, managing budgets,