Associate Director, Western Rural Development Center

Associate Director, Western Rural Development Center

The Western Rural Development Center (WRDC) is a partnership between the USDA and the University of Idaho, funded by the National Institute of Food and Agriculture. WRDC collaborates with universities, Cooperative Extension, communities, native nations, decision‑makers, entrepreneurs, farmers, ranchers, and families throughout the West to conduct research and outreach addressing rural development issues. Its mission is to strengthen the capacity of institutions and communities to support thriving, self‑sustaining rural areas.

The Associate Director leads highly specialized, multifaceted research and Extension programs, directing the work of junior scientists, postdoctoral fellows, and professional staff. The role combines advanced scientific expertise with strategic and administrative oversight, serving as a principal investigator on sponsored projects and translating scientific findings into evidence‑based applications that strengthen rural communities and inform policy and practice.

• Selecting, developing, and managing research and Extension portfolios focused on rural community and economic development.
• Supporting the WRDC Director in strategic planning, day‑to‑day management, and coordination of WRDC programs and operations.
• Hiring, training, and supervising a team of research and Extension support staff, postdoctoral fellows, and junior scientists, including performance evaluation.
• Assigning and managing designated research and Extension program space.
• Overseeing technical and administrative aspects of funded projects, including budgeting, deliverable tracking, and reporting.
• Conducting original, applied research and performing complex analyses to inform community and regional development practices.
• Leading and co‑authoring peer‑reviewed publications, Extension materials, and professional presentations.
• Reviewing and providing consultation on scientific and Extension projects, proposals, or methodologies.
• Engaging with partners, stakeholders, and community leaders to align research and outreach efforts with regional needs and priorities.
• Facilitating multistate and interdisciplinary collaborations that integrate research, education, and Extension functions; may mentor graduate students.

Required

Education:

Ph.D. in applied economics, rural sociology, political science, or a closely related field.

• One year of research and/or outreach experience in community development issues.
• One year of experience supervising and managing staff.
• One year of experience managing and conducting significant original research or Extension, or serving as a senior collaborator on a multi‑scholar research and Extension initiative.
• Experience with U.S. rural community development issues; demonstrated knowledge of issues facing U.S. rural communities may substitute for this experience.

Required Other:

• Ability to travel.
• Ability to work non‑standard business hours, including weekends and holidays.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license and be able to meet policy requirements for driving university‑owned vehicles.

• Demonstrated record of research.
• Demonstrated Extension, outreach experience, or cooperation.
• Knowledge of the U.S. land grant institution system.
• Demonstrated ability to interact effectively with constituents, client groups, and the general public.

Physical Requirements &

Working Conditions:

None.

The University of Idaho is an equal employment opportunity employer, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.