Project Director

Cornell University

1d•$82,735 - $97,834•Remote

About The Position

The Food Systems Community and Research Network (FSCRN) is seeking a Project Director to support the planning, implementation, and coordination of collaborative research and community engagement initiatives that aim to advance food systems equity, resilience, and justice. The FSCRN brings together academic researchers, community-based organizations, farmers, and public agencies to co-create knowledge and drive action that strengthens local, regional, and national food systems. The Project Director will play a critical role in ensuring the effective development of this cross-sector network by managing day-to-day activities, facilitating communication among partners, supporting participatory research processes, and helping build capacity for inclusive and equity-centered food systems transformation. This is a full-time, one-year fixed term appointment, with the possibility of renewal. This is a remote position. No visa sponsorship is available for this position. All applicants must be legally authorized to work in US without sponsorship. No relocation assistance is provided for this position.

Requirements

Master's degree in public health, food systems, community development, environmental studies, sociology, or a related field
Minimum of 3-5 years of experience coordinating multi-partner projects, preferably in food systems, public health, or community-based research, or equivalent combination.

Nice To Haves

Demonstrated experience working with community-based organizations, food justice advocates, or agricultural networks.
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
Excellent written and oral communication skills.
Proficiency in collaborative tools such as Google Workspace, Zoom, and project management platforms (e.g., Trello, Asana).
Experience with event planning, report writing, and basic data tracking and analysis.
Commitment to equity, inclusion, and power-sharing in research and program design.
Experience working directly with people from various socioeconomic backgrounds.

Responsibilities

Coordinate the implementation of FSCRN programs and projects, including meetings, events, and research activities.
Serve as a primary point of contact for internal and external partners, facilitating clear and consistent communication across all stakeholders.
Support community-based participatory research (CBPR) initiatives, including data collection, documentation, and evaluation efforts.
Organize and facilitate advisory board meetings, workgroups, and learning exchanges, including agenda setting, note-taking, and follow-up.
Develop project timelines, monitor deliverables, and track progress to ensure milestones are met.
Assist in the preparation of reports, presentations, grant applications, and outreach materials.
Manage logistics for community engagement events, workshops, and trainings.
Support the development and dissemination of educational and communication materials that center community voices and promote food systems equity.
Maintain records, data systems, and shared project documents using collaborative platforms.
Foster a culture of belonging and a healthy work environment by communicating across differences; being cooperative, collaborative, open, and welcoming; showing respect, compassion, and empathy; engaging and supporting others regardless of background or perspective; speaking up when others are being excluded or treated inappropriately; and supporting work/life integration of oneself and others.