The California Avocado Commission has an immediate management opening for a Research Project Manager at their Irvine office. The California Avocado Commission is responsible for the marketing and advertising of California avocados, as well as participating in industry wide activities, that together will help create a more profitable market environment.
As the Research Project Manager, you will be responsible for the day-to-day management of production research projects underway by outside scientists and research partners engaged to study avocado physiology, breeding and genetics, pests and diseases, and cultural management. Daily administration of the research process consistent with objectives and strategies established by the Board of Directors. Duties include, but are not limited to the following:
- Manage the portfolio of research projects contracted with research partners engaged to study avocado physiology, breeding and genetics, pests and diseases, and cultural management.
- Assist with the development and issuance of Requests for Proposals in accordance with agreed project outcomes, established processes and timelines.
- Liaison with researchers responding to Requests for Proposals, and their administrative offices, to clarify proposal requirements, assist with the establishment of realistic and measurable milestones, and guide budget development to optimize the CAC research budget.
- Liaison with contracted researchers to address project implementation issues, assist with problem-solving, and monitor progress against established milestones to ensure that projects remain on schedule.
- Collect activity and progress reports on research projects, identify project risks and impacts, recommend mitigation actions, and disseminate information to update stakeholders as appropriate.
- Assist with the recruitment of grower cooperators, and the possible establishment and operation of CAC managed demonstration groves.
- Disseminate research findings and industry best practices.
- Prepare factual, analytical reports and working papers on production-related matters.
- Translate scientific, technical and regulatory information into written resources for stakeholders.
- Design and implement a feedback mechanism to solicit grower input on program expectations and performance.
- Conduct field seminars and demonstration projects.
- Maintain contact with the international community of scientists involved in avocado research.
- Attend and participate in scientific or technical symposia and meetings related to avocado production.
- M.S. in Agricultural Science, Agronomy or a related field preferred.
- The ideal candidate must possess progressive responsible technical/management experience, including management of multiple projects and priorities at the same time.
- Must have the ability to work cooperatively with researchers and research institutions; success in building and leveraging professional relationships.
- They should also have a high degree of competence, professional maturity, inter-personal skills with excellent writing and oral presentation skills.
