Program Manager II, Deep Soil Ecotron

Job Description

Program Manager II, Deep Soil Ecotron

Posting Number: SP005238P

Division/College: College of Agricultural & Life Sciences

Department: Soils and Water Systems

Location: Moscow

Posting Context Statement:

The Deep Soil Ecotron is a $23 million dollar institute at the University of Idaho focused on advancing understanding of deep soils and their critical role in ecosystems. By enabling manipulation of subsurface abiotic and biotic factors, it supports innovative research in soil science, ecology, and biogeochemistry, while advancing soil sensor technology and data science. The Ecotron also engages stakeholders, from local producers to global researchers. As it approaches full operation in Fall 2026, the Managing Director will have the opportunity to lead its growth, build partnerships, and position the institute for long-term success.

Position Overview:

This position serves as the administrative lead for educational, outreach, and professional programs, or directing complex business operations in support of the program. The program manager formally plans, assigns, directs and coordinates the work of the program. The position will represent the program to administrators, faculty, staff and students within the university and external contacts.

Duties may include:

• Design and develop or assist with the design and development of program(s) or project(s)
• Manage and oversee the administrative and daily operations of a program
• Ensure compliance with university, state and federal policies and regulations
• Oversee the supervision of personnel for the program
• Manage contract, grant and/or state funding; approve and monitor budget expenditures; prepare budget revisions; provide interim status reports on all accounts; oversee, coordinate, and/or assist with proposal writing to develop additional funding
• Participate in the development of annual operating budgets and provide fiscal direction to the unit
• Oversee and/or coordinate the collection, compilation, and analysis of program activity data; develop, write and present program reports
• Other duties as assigned

Required Experience:

• Four years of program coordination or program management experience
• One year of supervisory experience or delegating work to others
• Participation in the development and management of operating budgets

Required Education:

• Bachelor’s Degree; four additional years of experience in program coordination (for a total of eight years) may substitute for a Bachelor’s Degree

Required Other:

• None

Additional Preferred:

• Bachelor’s Degree in soil science, project management, business management, or related to the domain of the position
• Master’s Degree in soil science, project management, business management, or related to the domain of the position
• Leadership experience in a non-academic setting (e.g., industry or non-governmental organization), including contributing to cross-disciplinary collaboration
• Familiarity with university research environments and practices, including supporting research operations and administration
• Knowledge of soil science or scientific infrastructure and data management
• Ability to work effectively in fast-paced, collaborative environments while supporting strategic initiatives and project implementation
• Experience communicating with stakeholders through written and verbal formats

Physical Requirements & Working Conditions:

• None

Degree Requirement:
Listed degree qualification is required at time of application

FLSA Status: Exempt

Employee Category: Exempt

Pay Range: $68,764.80 annually or higher depending on experience

Type of Appointment: Fiscal Year

FTE: 1

Full Time/Part Time: Full Time

Funding: This position is contingent upon the continuation of work and/or funding.

A visa sponsorship is available for the position listed in this vacancy: No

Posting Date: 04/22/2026

Closing Date:

Open Until Filled: Yes

Special Instructions to Applicants:

Applications received by May 6, 2026, will receive first consideration.

IMPORTANT: To be considered, your “Letter of Qualification” must address EACH of the minimum qualifications, including pertinent education and/or experience. In addition, to improve your ranking during the evaluation process, address as many of the Preferred Qualifications as possible. Information on a resume will not be accepted as a substitute for submitting a Letter of Qualification.

Along with your Resume/CV, Letter of Qualification, please attach a copy of your unofficial transcripts.

If you would like to receive a full position description, please email Heather Biersner at Hbiersner@uidaho.edu and request that one be sent to you.

Background Check Statement:

Applicants who are selected as final possible candidates must be able to pass a criminal background check.