Farm Director; Administrator III

Job no: 559724
Work type: Management (MPP)
Location: Chico
Categories: MPP, Administrative, At-Will, Full Time

California State University (CSU), Chico is a comprehensive and residential public university, holding Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) designation. Chico State operates as part of the 23-campus CSU system, which educates the most ethnically, economically, and academically diverse student body in the nation. The University enrolls over 15,000 students, with over half identifying as first-generation college students.

Chico State is committed to recruiting outstanding candidates. The ideal candidate will embrace our values predicated on the primacy of student success and the elimination of equity gaps, have demonstrated experience working with diverse populations, and will contribute to policies, programs, and practices that support an inclusive, accessible, and equitable learning and working environment. Black, Indigenous, People of Color, veterans, and those with diverse abilities are encouraged to apply.

Job/

Department Summary:

Under the general direction of the Dean of the College of Agriculture, the Farm Director provides strategic leadership and operational oversight of the 800-acre University Farm and 249-acre Meridian Range property. As a member of the college’s leadership team, the Farm Director ensures that farm operations, resources, and financial activities align with college and university priorities.

The Farm Director advances the Farm as a dynamic “living laboratory” and a center of excellence for experiential learning, applied research, and workforce development in agriculture. In collaboration with the Dean, Associate Dean, program coordinator, faculty, and staff, the incumbent integrates farm operations with academic programs to enhance student success, innovation, and industry relevance.

Working in coordination with Chico State Enterprises (CSE), the position ensures sound fiscal management and compliance. The role also leads long-range planning, innovation, and resource development to support sustainable operations, infrastructure improvements, and the continued growth and impact of the College of Agriculture.

Required

Education and Experience:

A Master’s degree in animal science, plant science, agricultural business, agriculture systems, or similar discipline.
AND
At least five years experience in farm management, agricultural business, or extension-like services.

Preferences:

Preference may be given to applicants with the following as they may be considered specialized skills:

• Experience managing university farms or other complex agricultural enterprises.
• Experience working within the CSU or another higher education institution.
• Working knowledge of California's agricultural regulatory environment, including compliance with state and federal requirements governing agricultural operations.
• Experience securing grants, philanthropic support, or other external funding for agricultural programs or facilities.
• Demonstrated experience leading innovation, diversifying enterprises, or implementing emerging technologies and sustainable practices.
• Demonstrated commitment to student success, workforce development, and inclusive excellence.

Time Base: Full-time

Pay Plan: 12/12

Anticipated Hiring Range: Not to exceed $164,000 per year. Salary commensurate with education and experience of the individual selected.

Benefits: This position qualifies for benefits including tuition fee waiver (if eligible).

Education Code 89521 Requirements: Applicants will be required to disclose whether they have received a final administrative decision or final judicial decision determining that they have committed sexual harassment within the last 7 years only after a determination is made that they meet the minimum qualifications for the position, and before an offer of employment is extended. Applicants who reach the final stages of the application process must also sign a release form that authorizes the release of information by the applicant’s current and/or former employers to the CSU concerning any substantiated allegations of misconduct.

California State University, Chico, in accordance with CSU policy,…