Position Function:
The Mississippi Water Resources Research Institute is seeking to hire a full-time Project Manager to manage irrigation, water quantity, water quality, precision ag, and other projects in row-crop production systems. This position will be responsible for implementing, managing, and coordinating work associated with assigned projects.
Salary Grade: 15
Please see Staff Compensation Structure or Skilled Crafts and Service Maintenance Compensation Schedule for salary ranges. For salary grade UC, these positions are "Unclassified" and salary ranges are determined by the hiring department.
Department Profile:
The Mississippi Water Resources Research Institute (MWRRI) at Mississippi State University has been serving the water industry and water related demands since 1964. MWRRI has seen a tremendous increase in the demand for research related to water use and efficiency for agronomic crops as well as outreach related efforts to support public and private water and wastewater utilities. As the demand for this precious resource (water) increases, so will the research and extension base to meet these demands. MWRRI has grown tremendously since 2000 and we have expanded our project work for crops; corn, rice, soybeans, and cotton. We have also expanded our project work directed towards private well owners to provide assistance to this drinking water supply where minimal regulations exist. Our mission is to solve the water problems of Mississippi, and we are striving to achieve that mission.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
We are looking for a highly motivated candidate who has expertise and interest in coordinating and managing numerous field-based projects, with an emphasis on on-farm demonstrations. The incumbent will be expected to successfully direct multiple projects while fostering relationships with MSU stakeholders. Therefore, the successful candidate must have a proven track record as an effective communicator. Specific duties include, but are not limited to:
1. After award of funding, work with senior personnel to plan all project activities.
2. Manage field operations without oversight.
3. Serve as the liaison and direct contact for growers or other stakeholders involved in projects by providing technical assistance.
4. Cultivate relationships and facilitate clear communication channels with growers and other stakeholders to accomplish goals and objectives.
5. Supervise appropriate personnel including other full-time and part-time employees, intermittent workers, and students.
6. Ensure quality management in the timely fulfillment of project requirements and objectives.
7. Work with other project managers in the unit to create reports required by project guidelines or senior personnel.
8. Procure, maintain, and oversee inventory of equipment and materials.
9. Collect, compile, and provide associated quality assurance/quality control for relevant data.
10. Other duties as assigned.
The above essential duties are representative of major duties in this position. Specific duties and responsibilities may vary based upon departmental needs. Other duties may be assigned to the above consistent with the knowledge, skills and abilities required for the job. Not all of the duties may be assigned to a position.
Minimum Qualifications:
The candidate must have a bachelor’s degree in an agricultural discipline with strong work experience and background in an agronomy-related field. This person must be able to work autonomously and have excellent communication, supervisory, and management skills. This person must have 3+ years of experience working directly with growers.
Preferred Qualifications:
Multiple years of supervising others and simultaneously managing several projects is highly preferred. Preference will be given to candidates who have 5+ years of experience working with growers. Additional preferred qualifications include knowledge of best management practices, precision agriculture technologies, and regional conventions.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
1. Knowledge of scientific and research methodologies, particularly related to agricultural research.
2. Able to employ experimental protocols and procedures.
3. Skill in organizing resources and establishing priorities.
4. Ability to foster a cooperative work environment.
5. Skill in the use of personal computers and related software applications including Excel and Word.
6. Proven project management abilities.
7. Excellent oral and written communication skills.
8. Demonstrated ability to manage/coordinate multiple detailed, tasks.
9. Independent self-starter with strong work ethic.
10. Must be a logical thinker.
Working Conditions and Physical Effort
• Ability to work outdoors in all conditions, particularly extreme heat.
• Lifting heavy objects (>50 lbs) individually.
• Seasonal work beyond 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. will be required.
Instructions for Applying:
Link to apply: http://explore.msujobs.msstate.edu/
Link to apply: http://explore.msujobs.msstate.edu/
1) cover letter highlighting qualifications, experience, and interests
2) a resume
3)transcript
4) three professional references including names, contact information, and relationship.
Any social security numbers included on requested transcripts should be redacted prior to submitting online.
Restricted Clause:
Position is contingent upon continued availability of funding.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:
Mississippi State University is an equal opportunity institution. Discrimination is prohibited in university employment, programs or activities based on race, color, ethnicity, sex, pregnancy, religion, national origin, disability, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, status as a U.S. veteran, or any other status to the extent protected by applicable law. Questions about equal opportunity programs or compliance should be directed to the Office of Civil Rights Compliance, 231 Famous Maroon Band Street, P.O. 6044, Mississippi State, MS 39762, (662) 325-5839.
What do I do if I need an accommodation?
In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act (ADA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation in order to apply for a position with Mississippi State University, please contact the Department of Human Resources Management at tel: (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu.
If you have any questions regarding this policy, contact the Department of Human Resources Management at (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu. Upon request, sections of this job listing are available in large print, and readers are available to assist the visually impaired.
