Assistant Director of Research Centers / Administrative Associate II/S

About the role

This role oversees operations supporting the University’s research, teaching, and Extension missions, and serves as a key liaison to internal and external partners. The Assistant Director works collaboratively with the Associate Director of AgBioResearch to coordinate operations, lead long-term planning for infrastructure and cropping systems, and ensure the Centers operate safely and efficiently, aligned with the mission of AgBioResearch and the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources (CANR). The Assistant Director reports to the Director of AgBioResearch (ABR), serves on the ABR leadership team, and interacts with the CANR Dean.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic oversight and daily leadership for all ANRREC‑managed Plant and Natural Resource Centers.
• Supervise farm managers, including facilitating performance evaluations, workload planning, hiring recommendations, and professional development.
• Coordinate equipment, supplies, labor, and operational needs to ensure efficient and reliable farm operations.
• Oversee operational budgets for each Center in collaboration with financial officers.
• Develop and implement revenue-generating strategies that support balanced and positive budgets.
• Track financial performance metrics and ensure transparent reporting.
• Lead capital improvement planning, prioritization, and funding requests.
• Oversee cropping plans, land use decisions, and resource allocation to support research, teaching, and Extension needs.
• Contribute to long-term facilities planning, equipment modernization, and sustainability initiatives.
• Lead planning for emerging issues, infrastructure needs, and long-term farm sustainability.
• Contribute to the mentoring and professional development of participants in the ANRREC Administrative Fellowship Program.
• Support staff development across the Centers.
• Actively participate in ANRREC leadership activities, including regular meetings, programmatic discussions, field days, and stakeholder events.
• Provide clear communication and timely updates to ABR leadership and CANR administration.
• Partner with the CANR Safety Officer and relevant EHS and ABR personnel to ensure full compliance with safety regulations and operational best practices.
• Monitor safety performance metrics and implement continuous improvement strategies.
• Work closely with faculty coordinators and MSU Extension to ensure that academic, research, and outreach activities are fully supported.
• Align farm operations with evolving research needs and teaching priorities.
• Serve as a liaison to agricultural industry partners, supporting