Assistant Director, S-SARE Program

University of Georgia; Griffin (GA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Georgia is seeking an Assistant Director for the S-SARE Program in Griffin, Georgia. This full-time role involves managing various grant programs, promoting sustainable agriculture, and overseeing grant processes. Candidates should hold a Bachelor’s degree and possess at least two years of professional experience, along with strong communication skills. The position offers opportunities to lead impactful projects and contribute to the development of sustainable agricultural practices.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent and 2 years of professional experience.
• Familiarity with grant management and grant writing.
• Effective oral and written communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Manage SSARE Producer Grant, On‑Farm Research Grant, and Graduate Student Grant Programs.
• Oversee proposal reviews, including technical review panels.
• Assist with maintenance of website architecture for grants management system.

Skills

Knowledge of agricultural research

Grant management

Communication skills

Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite

Education

Bachelor’s degree in a related field

Job description

Assistant Director, S‑SARE Program

Posting Number: S15070P
Working Title: Assistant Director, S‑SARE Program
Department: CAES – Griffin Campus
Employment Type: Full Time (FTE 1.00)
Salary: Commensurate with Experience
Work Schedule: Monday‑Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Application Deadline: Open until filled
Proposed Starting Date: 06/01/2026

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent and 2 years of professional experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of agricultural research, education, marketing practices related to sustainable agriculture.
• Understanding of the Land‑Grant system, research and Cooperative Extension.
• Experience with grant management and grant writing.
• Familiarity with program policy and regulations related to grant programs and project management.
• Effective oral and written communication skills to educate others about the SARE program.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and analytics.

Responsibilities

• Manage SSARE Producer Grant, On‑Farm Research Grant, and Graduate Student Grant Programs.
  • Work with the SARE Administrative Council to develop program goals, regulations, and strategies.
  • Develop calls for proposals that communicate goals and regulations to potential grant applicants.
  • Implement all phases of the grant process from release of the calls to award.
  • Oversee proposal reviews, including technical review panels.
  • Assist potential grant applicants with submission.
  • Conduct on‑site meetings with grantees to assist in research/reporting, address issues, and ensure reporting deadlines.
  • Work with associate accountant on reimbursement processes.
• Manage Projects Database for All Grant Programs.
  • Read and approve annual and final reports of grant projects.
  • Communicate project results to communications specialist to promote the SSARE program.
  • Provide feedback and progress on funded projects across all grant programs.
  • Present findings on impacts in annual and progress reports to the Administrative Council, USDA, and staff.
• Maintain the Online Grants Management System.
  • Assist with maintenance of website architecture and functionality to meet needs of applicants, reviewers, and grantees.
  • Write, edit, and update calls for proposals for all Southern SARE grant programs.
  • Aggregate and provide program data; share with internal and external audiences.
  • Compile grant program statistics (number and amount of awards, state, subject matter, institutional type).
  • Evaluate results of projects and grant programs.
• Represent and Promote SSARE at Local, Regional, and National Events.
  • Collaborate with resource specialists, professional development managers, and land‑grant liaisons to promote sustainable agriculture.
  • Collaborate with state agricultural coordinators and program assistants.
• Collaborate with SSARE communications and outreach staff to publicize research-based results.
• Increase the capacity for sustainable agriculture research in the Southern Region.
• Support the Program Director in program oversight as needed.

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, veteran status or other protected status.

Contact Information

Recruitment Contact: Jeffrey F. D. Dean – [e-mail]

Posting Specific Questions

• This position is based out of Griffin, Georgia. Are you willing and able to work from this location?
  • Yes
  • No
  • No Response
• Do you have experience in working with detailed budgets?
  • Yes
  • No

Applicant Documents

Required Documents

• Resume/CV
• Cover Letter
• List of References with Contact Information

Optional Documents

• Any additional supporting documentation.