Assistant Director - Texas Native Seeds

Texas A&M University; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Texas A&M University is hiring an Assistant Director for the Texas Native Seeds Agency to lead the Coastal Prairies project. The role entails managing collaborations, overseeing research plots, and ensuring successful project implementation.

The ideal candidate will hold a Bachelor’s degree in Range and Wildlife Management and possess six years of relevant experience in habitat restoration and effectively managing partnerships.

Qualifications

• Six years of related experience in Texas flora and habitat restoration practices.
• Valid driver’s license is required.

Responsibilities

• Manage partnerships with agencies and private sector partners.
• Oversee operations of TNS facilities and research plots.
• Direct and evaluate productivity of staff and student technicians.

Skills

Project management

Communication skills

Customer service

Data management

Fieldwork

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Range and Wildlife Management

Tools

Word processing software

Spreadsheet software

Farm machinery and equipment

Job description

Job Title: Assistant Director, Texas Native Seeds Agency
Department: Kleberg Wildlife Research Institute
Location: Edna, Texas (Headquarters)
Job Type: Staff

Position Overview

The Assistant Director of Texas Native Seeds (TNS) assists in leading and supervising the Coastal Prairies project. Oversees daily operations of facilities, research sites, and demonstration projects across state, federal, and private lands, while maintaining partnerships with landowners, agencies, and stakeholders. Supports technical initiatives, fundraising efforts, and strategic planning.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Program Leadership and Partnerships

• Manage and maintain collaborative relationships with agencies and private sector partners.
• Represent TNS at events, functions, and on state and national committees.
• Oversee spending and budget management; plan and direct construction and large purchases.
• Provide data for organization planning and serve as a member of the project management team.
• Maintain engagement with landowners and stakeholders.

Operations and Facilities Management

• Oversee management and operations of TNS facilities and research plots on public and private lands.
• Ensure effective facility operations, maintenance, and scheduling.
• Report infrastructure needs and support budget planning.
• Evaluate field operations and prepare reports.
• Perform field work including equipment operation, herbicide and irrigation applications.
• Manage greenhouse production activities.

Project and Personnel Management

• Serve as liaison for operations, including personnel, research, purchasing, and fundraising.
• Direct and evaluate schedules and productivity of staff and student technicians.
• Oversee TNS research projects, ensuring implementation, data collection, and reporting.

Communication and Outreach

• Assist in writing and distributing reports, publications, proposals, and outreach materials.
• Support educational and engagement efforts with external stakeholders.
• Meet with landowners and managers to provide technical expertise.
• Act as the main contact for TNS within the Coastal Prairies project region.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Range and Wildlife Management or closely related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Six years of related experience in Texas flora, applied and scientific habitat restoration practices.
• Valid driver’s license.

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced degree in Range and Wildlife Management or related field.
• Experience in habitat restoration and native seed production.
• Experience managing multi‑partner or research projects.
• Experience in grant writing and fundraising.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of farm operations, land management, and restoration practices.
• Proficiency in word processing and spreadsheet software.
• Strong communication and customer service skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage complex projects.
• Ability to collaborate with diverse stakeholders and partners.
• Ability to multitask and prioritize in a dynamic environment.
• Proficiency in data management, analysis, and reporting tools.
• Familiarity with laboratory, field, and technical equipment.

Physical Requirements

• Work outdoors exposed to various weather conditions, potential allergens, elevated noise levels, and heat.
• Move up to 50 lbs with assistance; move light, medium, or heavy objects with assistance.
• Operate farm machinery and equipment safely.
• Travel independently to local or remote locations by driving and/or flying commercially.

Other Requirements and Factors

• Position is security sensitive and requires export‑control authorization prior to employment.
• Compliance with state and federal laws, Texas A&M University System policies, and Texas A&M University System regulations is required.
• Safety procedures must be followed, and up to 25% or more travel may be required.
• Work beyond normal office hours or on weekends may be required.
• Position is funded through grant or contract funding; continuation of funding is contingent upon grantor/cor‑contract and job performance.

Equal Opportunity/Veterans/Disability Employer

This position is security-sensitive. Applicants will be subject to a criminal history investigation and employment is contingent upon verification of credentials and compliance with the institution’s procedures. Texas A&M University–Kingsville is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from veterans and individuals with disabilities.