FoodU Program Manager

FoodU Program Manager

Requisition Number: S3677P

Job Summary

The College of Agriculture at Auburn University seeks applicants for their FoodU Program Manager!

This position serves as the program manager influencing, managing, and overseeing a dynamic, multidisciplinary program while serving as liaison between Auburn University and key industry partners of the project. The FoodU program brings together academic departments and non-academic entities, food service providers, and private business to immerse students in the food system at Auburn University by offering hands-on training in state-of-the-art food production and usage techniques. The FoodU program includes venues such as AU Transformation Garden, Greenhouse Complex, Plant Sciences Research Center, AU Aquaponics, Fisheries, Culinary Sciences,

AU Dining, and other local venues.

This is a limited term appointment funded from external sources. Continuation of employment is contingent upon availability of funds.

About Auburn: At Auburn, our work changes lives. Ranked by U.S. News and World Report as a premier public institution, Auburn University is dedicated to shaping the future of the people of Alabama, the nation, and the world through forward-thinking education, life-enhancing research, scholarship, and selfless service. Auburn is nationally recognized for its commitment to academic excellence, community outreach, positive work environment, student engagement, and thriving community.

Why employees choose Auburn: Auburn University was named by Forbes Magazine as one of the state of Alabama’s best employers, with employees staying an average of ten years. Employees enjoy competitive benefits that include top-notch health insurance, generous retirement plans, tuition assistance for employees and dependents, flexible spending accounts, and more!

Learn more about Auburn’s impact, generous employee benefits, and thriving community by visiting aub.ie/working-at-auburn

Our Commitment: Auburn University is committed to a diverse and inclusive campus environment. Visit auburn.edu/inclusion to learn more about our commitment to expanding equity and inclusion for all.

Essential Functions

Essential functions include the following:

• Provides comprehensive project oversight and strategic development of the FoodU program including management of operations, budgets, personnel, and equipment.
• Drives the execution of FoodU project initiatives, in association with the Director, including crop scheduling, equipment procurement, program logistics, development of new partnerships, and initiation of new projects.
• Develops, nurtures, and maintains key industry partners and stakeholders, ensuring strategic initiatives of the program align with industry standards. Connects key stakeholders within the FoodU program including Campus Dining, Horticulture, Culinary Science, Hospitality Management, Ithaka Hospitality Partners, and various private industry companies to create and maintain a collaborative community.
• Collaborates with the FoodU Director and other key stakeholders to ensure food production needs are being met and that produce is of the highest possible quality and safety. Oversees a variety of personnel, including staff, students, and others meet timelines and deliverables.
• Advocates for the FoodU program to industry collaborators and other important stakeholders and fosters partnerships that enhance FoodU capabilities and advance the FoodU mission.
• Acts as the public face of the FoodU program and oversees dozens of tours and engagements each year for the general public and interested stakeholders, and participates in news and other communication media to tell the FoodU story.
• Performs other related duties to the successful operation of the FoodU program.

Minimum Qualifications   

• Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture, Business, or related field.
• 5 years of experience in agricultural research, the fresh produce or culinary industries.
• Knowledge/experience with computers and software programs.

Desired Qualifications        

• Experience with controlled environment agriculture operations
• and structures, including greenhouses and vertical farms is desired.

Salary Range: $48,100 - $81,800

Special Instructions to Applicants

Please utilize the attachment feature and attach a cover letter and resume. Only COMPLETE applications will be considered for selection. Salary will be commensurate with education and experience.

Link for postings: https://www.auemployment.com/postings/45997

Auburn University is committed to an inclusive and diverse campus environment. Women, underrepresented groups, individuals with disabilities and veterans are encouraged to apply. AUBURN UNIVERSITY IS AN AFFIRMATIVE ACTION/EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER. It is our policy to provide equal employment opportunities for all individuals without regard to race, sex, religion, color, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other classification protected by applicable law.