Associate Director, Western Rural Development Center

ABOUT THE ROLE The Associate Director leads highly specialized and multifaceted research and Extension programs at the Western Rural Development Center, a partnership between the USDA and the University of Idaho. This role directs junior research and Extension scientists, postdoctoral fellows, and professional staff to advance the center's mission of strengthening rural communities through integrated research and outreach across the western United States. The position combines advanced scientific expertise with strategic and administrative oversight. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Select, develop, and manage research and Extension portfolios focused on rural community and economic development - Support the WRDC Director in strategic planning, day-to-day management, and coordination of programs and operations - Hire, train, and supervise research and Extension support staff, postdoctoral fellows, and junior scientists, including performance evaluation - Assign and manage designated research and Extension program space - Oversee technical and administrative aspects of funded projects, including budgeting, deliverable tracking, and reporting - Conduct original, applied research and perform complex analyses to inform community and regional development practices - Lead and co-author peer-reviewed publications, Extension materials, and professional presentations - Review and provide consultation on scientific and Extension projects, proposals, or methodologies - Engage with partners, stakeholders, and community leaders to align research and outreach efforts with regional needs - Facilitate multistate and interdisciplinary collaborations integrating research, education, and Extension functions, and mentor graduate students MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Ph.D. in applied economics, rural sociology, political science, or a closely related field (required at time of application) - 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 initiative - Experience with U.S. rural community development issues, or demonstrated knowledge of issues facing U.S. rural community development SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Ability to travel and work nonstandard business hours, including weekends and holidays - Must possess a valid driver's license and meet policy requirements for driving university-owned vehicles - Preferred qualifications include a demonstrated record of research, Extension or outreach experience, knowledge of the U.S. land grant institution system, and the ability to interact effectively with constituents and the public SELECTION PROCESS 1. Applications received by August 1, 2026, will receive first consideration 2. Final possible candidates must pass a criminal background check HOW TO APPLY 1. Submit required documents via the University of Idaho careers portal 2. Upload a Resume/CV, Cover Letter, and Transcripts (unofficial transcripts are acceptable) 3. Submit a Research Statement as Other Document 1 4. Submit an Extension Statement as Other Document 2 5. Submit a Management Approach Statement as Other Document 3 6. Submit one Research paper as Other Document 4 7. Complete the required supplemental questions regarding referrals and how the opportunity was discovered EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Location: Boise, Idaho - Position Type: Full Time, Exempt, Fiscal Year Appointment - FTE: 1.0 - Funding: Contingent upon the continuation of work and/or funding - Visa Sponsorship: Not available - Closing Date: Open until filled - Equal Opportunity: The University of Idaho is an equal employment opportunity employer, including veterans and individuals with disabilities