The Project Manager will be responsible for the day-to-day management of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) NIFA HSI grant pursuant to the goals and objectives outlined in the proposal. The Project Director is tasked with building a robust program to promote career exposure and recruit a diverse group of Next Generation of Food, Agriculture, Natural Recourses and Human Science (FANA) professionals that serve as a model for other education institutions.

POSITION SUMMARY

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Ensures successful project implementation, including student and community outreach.
• Ensures project activities are implemented in accordance with the activity plan outlined in the grant proposal, and that progress is made toward achieving project objectives.
• Promotes and directs recruitment of 6 th -12 th grade students and community college students into FANA-related academic and career programs and the recruitment of partner institutions to help grow the program.
• Serves as the primary point of contact with the USDA and is responsible for the timely completion of all USDA project and financial reporting documents.
• Conducts regular briefings and presentations to senior executives, the Grants Director, PI, project team members and other college administrators to keep them apprised of project progress.
• Works closely with the Director of the STEM Center to ensure that activities are aligned with project goals and objectives.
• Supervises and recruits project personnel and oversees related hiring processes when necessary.
• Collaborates with the Grants Manager to oversee the project budget and authorize all project expenditures to ensure appropriate and timely use of funds.
• Coordinates grant-related faculty activities such as curriculum development, revising transfer articulation agreements with four-year colleges, and faculty development.
• Oversees the design and implementation of project evaluation and prepare related internal monthly reports and grantor-mandated evaluation reports.
• Keeps informed about changes in government regulations affecting project activities; attend annual project director meetings and other national conferences as approved by the College’s travel policy.
• Helps to facilitate the institutionalization of project lessons learned and best-practice activities to ensure a successful transition to college operations at the conclusion of the grant.
• Performs additional duties as required.

QUALIFICATIONS AND SPECIAL SKILLS

Education: Master’s degree in STEM, Business, Agriculture or related field is required, Project management certification preferred.

Experience: Three years of experience working or teaching in higher education with experience/ training in management or project management. A demonstrated track record of developing and coordinating educational grants, resource networks, and/or related initiatives is preferred. Experience managing student-facing services, developing and coordinating resource networks, or related initiatives is preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: 

• Demonstrates computer literacy, including proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, and database technologies. Excellent leadership, organizational, interpersonal, and customer service skills are required. Must be able to work with a diverse population of students and staff.

Exhibits strong skills in:

• Project Management
• Recruitment
• Relationship Building
• Reporting
• Oral and written communication
• Student / Client Focus
• Planning

SALARY AND BENEFITS

• Annual salary is from $65,000 -$68,000 (Grant funded). 
• NJ Educators Health Plan with free Vision and Dental. NJ State Pension plan.
• 15 vacation days, 15 sick days, 4 personal days, 2 floating holidays, all designated holidays and 5 non-designated holidays a year. 3 Partial Sick Days.