Farm Director (Administrator III)

About the role

The Farm Director oversees the 800-acre University Farm and 249-acre Meridian Range property, providing strategic leadership and operational oversight. This role is a member of the college’s leadership team, ensuring that farm operations, resources, and financial activities align with college and university priorities. The Farm Director advances the farm as a dynamic "living laboratory" and a center of excellence for experiential learning, applied research, and workforce development in agriculture.

Responsibilities

• Strategic leadership and operational oversight of the University Farm and Meridian Range property.
• Ensures that farm operations, resources, and financial activities align with college and university priorities.
• Advances the farm as a dynamic "living laboratory" and a center of excellence for experiential learning, applied research, and workforce development in agriculture.
• Integrates farm operations with academic programs to enhance student success, innovation, and industry relevance.
• Works in coordination with Chico State Enterprises (CSE) to ensure sound fiscal management and compliance.
• Led long-range planning, innovation, and resource development to support sustainable operations, infrastructure improvements, and the continued growth and impact of the College of Agriculture.

Requirements

• A Master’s degree in animal science, plant science, agricultural business, agriculture systems, or similar discipline.
• At least five years experience in farm management, agricultural business, or extension-like services.
• Preference may be given to applicants with experience managing university farms or other complex agricultural enterprises.
• Experience working within the CSU or another higher education institution.
• Working knowledge of California's agricultural regulatory environment, including compliance with state and federal requirements governing agricultural operations.
• Experience securing grants, philanthropic support, or other external funding for agricultural programs or facilities.
• Demonstrated experience leading innovation, diversifying enterprises, or implementing emerging technologies and sustainable practices.
• Demonstrated commitment to student success, workforce development, and inclusive excellence.

Qualifications

• Education Code 89521

Skills

• Strategic Leadership
• Operational Oversight
• Experiential Learning
• Applied Research
• Workforce Development
• Sustainable Practices
• Innovation
• Grant Writing
• Financial Management
• Compliance with Agricultural Regulations
• Commitment to Student Success and Inclusive Excellence

Benefits

• Tuition Fee Waiver (if eligible)
• Health Insurance

Pay

Not to exceed $164,000 per year. Salary commensurate with education and experience of the individual selected.

Schedule

Mon-Fri 8:00am-5:00pm, Summer: Mon-Thurs 7:00am-5:30pm