Strategic Lead, Research Centers Operations

MSU - Michigan State University; East Lansing (MI); On-site; USD 95,000 - 135,000; Full time

Job summary

MSU - Michigan State University seeks an Assistant Director of Research Centers to oversee operations supporting the University’s research, teaching, and Extension missions. This role coordinates long-term infrastructure planning, ensures safety, and partners with ABR and CANR leadership to advance farm centers and stakeholder engagement.

The position requires experience in agricultural operations, budgeting, and staff leadership, with a focus on collaborative, cross-functional work within

Qualifications

• Minimum requirements: four-year degree in agriculture, agribusiness, or related field.
• Five to eight years of progressive experience in agricultural operations, farm management, or related fields.
• Experience with fiscal management, budgeting, and revenue development.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic oversight and daily leadership for ANRREC-collected Plant and Natural Resource Centers.
• Supervise farm managers, including evaluations, workload planning, hiring recommendations, and development.
• Coordinate equipment, supplies, labor, and operational needs for efficient farm operations.
• Oversee operational budgets and collaborate with financial officers.
• Develop and implement revenue-generating strategies and monitor performance metrics.
• Lead capital improvement planning and funding requests.
• Oversee cropping plans, land use, and resource allocation to support research and teaching.
• Mentor and develop participants in the ANRREC Administrative Fellowship Program.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Operations management

Budgeting

Staff supervision

Stakeholder engagement

Education

Bachelor's in Agriculture

Master's degree preferred

Job description

MSU - Michigan State University seeks an Assistant Director of Research Centers to oversee operations supporting the University’s research, teaching, and Extension missions. This role coordinates long-term infrastructure planning, ensures safety, and partners with ABR and CANR leadership to advance farm centers and stakeholder engagement.

The position requires experience in agricultural operations, budgeting, and staff leadership, with a focus on collaborative, cross-functional work within