Position Function:
The research program at the Prairie Research Unit focuses on developing sustainable/profitable management strategies for the beef cattle industry. This Farm Manager position will support research at the station. The incumbent is expected to work closely with the research team to satisfy the goals and expectations of funded projects. Areas of emphasis are beef cattle production.
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:
Prairie Research Unit is a MAFES branch of the North MS Research and Extension Center, which exists to serve the needs of agriculture in northeastern Mississippi. It is a part of the Division of Agriculture, Forestry, and Veterinary Medicine of Mississippi State University (MSU), the State's Land Grant Institution.
Area of Specialization:
Beef Cattle Operations
Anticipated Appointment Date:
November 2025.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
Operational tasks related to beef cattle production are included in the essential duties and responsibilities of this position. The following examples are intended as illustrations only of the various types of duties assigned in positions allocated to this classification. The absence of specific statements of duties does not exclude those tasks from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment of the position.
1. Oversee daily operations of facilities and infrastructure at the Prairie Research Unit.
2. Coordinate repairs, renovations, and upgrades to maintain optimal facility conditions.
3. Manage long-term maintenance plans to extend the life of facility assets.
4. Ensure compliance with university, state, and federal safety regulations.
5. Maintain documentation for inspections, inventory, and regulatory requirements.
6. Assign tasks and oversee work schedules to ensure efficient operations.
7. Coordinate with contractors and vendors for services.
8. Monitor inventory of supplies, tools, and equipment, ensuring cost effective procurement.
9. Prepare reports on expenditures, maintenance activities, and operational metrics.
10. Coordinate facility needs for ongoing research projects, including office space and equipment.
11. Assist in planning and executing research activities, including data collection.
12. Assist and plan cattle handling and care including feeding and herd health tasks.
13. Maintain accurate records of livestock inventory, treatments, and performance metrics.
14. Lead, guide, and train staff/student employees and/or volunteers performing related work.
15. Operate and maintain farm equipment.
16. Miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications:
Education: Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture or closely related field.
Licensure: Valid driver's license.
Preferred Qualifications:
A valid Class A Commercial Driver's License or willingness and ability to obtain this license is desirable. Experience operating and maintaining farm equipment beyond the minimum required.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
1. Knowledge of scientific approach and methodologies.
2. Ability to develop and follow research methodology and protocol.
3. Ability to read, understand, follow, and enforce safety procedures.
4. Knowledge of current technological developments/trends in area of agronomy.
5. Knowledge of scientific research principles, practices, and protocols.
6. Ability to design, organize, and coordinate scientific research projects.
7. Knowledge and field/laboratory skills to work in sustainable agricultural practices
8. Computer skills for data analysis (MS Excel, SAS) are also expected.
9. Excellent written and verbal communication skills to interact effectively with faculty, staff, producers, and the general public.
10. Ability to work collaboratively within a team and independently is essential.
11. Ability to operate motor vehicles
Working Conditions and Physical Effort
Work environment involves some exposure to hazards or physical risks which require following basic safety precautions. Work is normally performed in an agricultural field, equipment shop, and office environment. Requires heavy physical work; heavy lifting, pushing, or pulling required of objects up to 50 pounds. Contact with herbicides and pesticides is frequent, as is working in extreme weather conditions.
Supervision Received: Supervision from a designated faculty member.
Supervision Given: Provide oversight to staff, student workers, and intermittent employees.
At this time, MSU is unable to offer H-1B visa sponsorship for this role. This applies until further notice.
Instructions for Applying:
Link to apply: http://explore.msujobs.msstate.edu/
Please submit a current resume, cover letter/letter of application, and current unofficial transcripts. Please provide contact information for three professional references. An official copy of transcripts will be required if selected for an interview. Social security numbers should be redacted on transcripts prior to submission.
Screening Date:
November 4, 2025, until filled.
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.
