Director, Gulf Coast Coastal Engineering & Water Resources

Auburn University; Auburn (AL); On-site; USD 140,000 - 210,000; Full time

Job summary

Auburn University is seeking a Director for the Gulf Coast Engineering Research Center based in Orange Beach, Alabama. The role requires developing a long-term vision for water quality, coastal resilience, and related environmental engineering initiatives, while aligning with campus priorities.

The director will lead multidisciplinary teams, pursue external funding from NOAA, EPA, USACE, NSF, and state agencies, and report progress to college leadership and an advisory council.

Qualifications

• 10 years of leadership experience in a complex research organization.
• Proven track record securing extramural funds from federal/state agencies and private sector.
• Experience guiding water resources, coastal/environmental engineering, or marine science programs.

Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership — develops long-term Center vision and establishes leadership in coastal research.
• Research Management — oversees staff and ensures goals meet budget and timeline constraints.
• Funding and Budgeting — secures operational support and manages Center budget.
• Team Building and Management — mentors researchers and professional staff.
• Community and Stakeholder Engagement — collaborates with coastal communities and agencies.
• Reporting — provides regular progress reports to senior college leaders and advisory council.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Fundraising

Budget management

Stakeholder engagement

Team building

Education

Master's Degree in Engineering or Science

Job description

Auburn University is seeking a Director for the Gulf Coast Engineering Research Center based in Orange Beach, Alabama. The role requires developing a long-term vision for water quality, coastal resilience, and related environmental engineering initiatives, while aligning with campus priorities.

The director will lead multidisciplinary teams, pursue external funding from NOAA, EPA, USACE, NSF, and state agencies, and report progress to college leadership and an advisory council.