Operations Manager for Pritchard's Island Research Program

PeopleAdmin, Inc.; South Carolina; On-site; USD 25,000 - 39,000; Part time

Job summary

University of South Carolina Beaufort region seeks an detail-driven Operations Manager to support the daily operations of the Pritchard’s Island Research Program. This role coordinates research activities, ensures safety compliance, and maintains efficient program operations for faculty, students, and visiting researchers.

Reporting to the Director, the position handles daily logistics, budget support, and communications with leadership and state legislators, while promoting environmental

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree and relevant program experience.
• Experience coordinating research operations preferred.
• Willing to work a flexible schedule to meet department needs.

Responsibilities

• Manage daily program operations and logistics.
• Develop and maintain operating controls and tracking systems to ensure safe, compliant activities.
• Coordinate and track researcher visits, including required forms and on-island locations.
• Partner with the Field Safety Officer, Boat Captain, and Department of Public Safety to manage all island access and transportation in compliance with regulations.
• Schedule use of program personnel, equipment, and resources.
• Assist with planning and execution of the annual research symposium.
• Maintain program website and social media platforms.
• Support grant reporting and prepare communications for university leadership and state legislators.
• Assist in managing the program’s operating budget.
• Collaborate on annual updates to Standard Operating Procedures.

Skills

Operations management

Education

Bachelor’s degree

Job description

Operations Manager for Pritchard's Island Research Program

Positions will remain posted on our employment website for a minimum of five (5) business days. After this period, postings may be closed at the department’s discretion. Our site is updated regularly, and the length of the recruitment and screening process may vary depending on the position and related factors. If your qualifications are selected for further consideration, you will be contacted directly by phone or email.

Salary Commensurate with experience and education

Location of Vacancy USC Beaufort supported area

Part/Full Time Part Time

Hours per Week 25

Work Schedule Standard working schedule: 8:30am – 5:00pm.
Schedule will be determined by the supervisor.

Must be willing to work a flexible schedule to meet the needs of the department.

About USC

About University of South Carolina

From the Upstate to the Lowcountry, the University of South Carolina system is transforming the lives of South Carolinians through the impact of our eight institutions and 20 locations throughout the state. More than 50,000 students are enrolled at one of eight institutions, including the research campus in Columbia and comprehensive four-year universities in Aiken, Upstate and Beaufort. In addition, our Palmetto College campuses in Salkehatchie, Union, Lancaster and Sumter enable students to earn associate or bachelor’s degrees through a combination of in-person, online or blended learning. All of our system institutions place strong emphasis on service — helping to build healthier, more educated communities in South Carolina and beyond.

Benefits for Temporary Positions The University of South Carolina (USC), through the State of SC and Public Employee Benefit Authority (PEBA), offers temporary employees expected to work at least 30 hours per week health and life insurance, flexible spending accounts and retirement programs. To learn more about USC benefits, access the "Working at USC" section on the Applicant Portal at https://uscjobs.sc.edu.

Position Description Advertised Job Summary Operations Manager – Pritchard’s Island Research Program
Pritchard’s Island | South Carolina Lowcountry
The Pritchard’s Island Research Program is seeking a detail-driven Operations Manager to support the daily operations of a dynamic coastal research environment dedicated to advancing knowledge and stewardship of the Lowcountry’s unique ecosystems.

Reporting to the Director, this role is essential in coordinating research activities, ensuring safety compliance, and maintaining efficient program operations for faculty, students, and visiting researchers. Key Responsibilities:

• Manage daily program operations and logistics
• Develop and maintain operating controls and tracking systems to ensure safe, compliant activities
• Coordinate and track researcher visits, including required forms and on-island locations
• Partner with the Field Safety Officer, Boat Captain, and Department of Public Safety to manage all island access and transportation in compliance with regulations
• Schedule use of program personnel, equipment, and resources
• Assist with planning and execution of the annual research symposium
• Maintain program website and social media platforms
• Support grant reporting and prepare communications for university leadership and state legislators
• Assist in managing the program’s operating budget
• Collaborate on annual updates to Standard Operating Procedures

This is a unique opportunity to play a key role in supporting impactful coastal research and operations along the South Carolina coastline. If you are highly organized, collaborative, and passionate about supporting research and environmental stewardship, we encourage you to apply.

Qualifications Bachelor’s degree and relevant program experience.

Job Duties Posting Detail Information Number of Vacancies 1 Desired Start Date 04/06/2026 Proposed End Date 06/30/2026 Job Open Date 03/25/2026 Job Close Date Open Until Filled

EEO Statement The University of South Carolina does not discriminate in educational or employment opportunities or decisions for qualified persons on the basis of age, ancestry, citizenship status, color, disability, ethnicity, familial status, gender (including transgender), gender identity or expression, genetic information, HIV /AIDs status, military status, national origin, pregnancy (false pregnancy, termination of pregnancy, childbirth, recovery therefrom or related medical conditions, breastfeeding), race, religion (including religious dress and grooming practices), sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other bases under federal, state, local law, or regulations.

Position Attributes

Employees in Safety-Sensitive or Security-Sensitive positions will be subject to pre-employment and post-employment drug testing in accordance with University policy HR 1.95 Drug and Alcohol Testing. Safety/Security Sensitive or Requires a CDL No Hazardous weather category Non-Essential

Supplemental Questions

• * Do you have a bachelor's degree and relevant program experience?
  • Yes
  • No

Required Documents

• Cover Letter
• Resume

Optional Documents

• Other Supporting Documents