Institutional Research Director jobs in Rock Island, IL

Looking to join a FOUR-time U.S. Best Managed Company? Kent Nutrition Group (KNG), a member of the Kent Corporation family of companies has an exciting opportunity to join their team as a Research Farm Supervisor. The KNG Research Farm is the heart of our product research and the foundation for developing new KENT and Blue Seal product formulations in a practical, real-world setting. The Research Farm Supervisor is responsible for the daily operations of the farm and all aspects of the Research Farm’s budget, managing General Farm Hand employees, general livestock oversight related to feeding, animal health, record keeping, following trial protocol, pasture maintenance, crop production, building and equipment maintenance.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Supervise General Farm Hands (2-4)

PRIMARY DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Budget Management: Develop and manage the annual budget for the research farm. Monitor and control expenses to ensure adherence to budgetary constraints. Collaborate with relevant stakeholders to allocate resources efficiently.
• Team Leadership: Lead and motivate a team of General Farm Hands to ensure efficient and productive operations. Provide training and guidance to farm personnel, fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Conduct regular performance evaluations and implement strategies for team development.
• Livestock Management & Recordkeeping: Feeding, raising, and providing health care to all livestock on the Research Farm. Establish and maintain accurate records of livestock feeding activities. Collaborate with KNG Nutritionists to implement feeding protocols for research purposes. Monitor and report on the health and well-being of livestock.
• Research Support: Collaborate with KNG Research Team to implement and support ongoing experiments and trials. Ensure that farm activities align with the goals and objectives of research projects. Provide input and feedback to contribute to the success of research initiatives.
• Equipment Maintenance and Repair: Oversee the maintenance and repair of all farm equipment and machinery. Implement preventive maintenance schedules to ensure optimal functionality. Ability to safely operate several different types of machinery, heavy equipment including tractors to fulfill responsibilities of the position. Coordinate with vendors for equipment servicing and repairs as needed.
• Liaison and Kent Research Farm Representative: Serve as the face and voice of the research farm to tour groups, youth events, industry functions and the general public.
• Perform general labor duties as needed and assist in all areas of crop production.
• Other duties as assigned.

EDUCATION:

• Bachelor’s degree in agriculture, farm management, or a related field preferred

EXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATIONS:

• Proven experience in farm management, with a focus on research farms.
• Strong understanding of budget management and financial acumen.
• Knowledge of livestock management practices and feeding protocols.
• Excellent leadership and team management skills.
• Familiarity with agricultural research methodologies and experimental design.
• Ability to work under tight deadlines.
• High level of accuracy and careful attention to detail.
• Pork Quality Assurance (PQA) Plus Certification.
• Chemical/ Pesticide Applicators certification a plus.
• Mechanical aptitude.
• Must have a valid drivers license, CDL a plus.
• Computer knowledge and basic skills in Microsoft office
• Experience operating farm machinery