Research Operations Manager II

North Carolina State University•Raleigh, NC

62d

About The Position

The main purpose of the Prestage Department of Poultry Science is to support the North Carolina poultry industry and community through extension, research, and teaching activities. Poultry is the largest income-producing commodity in the state and the Prestage Department of Poultry Science works together with different producers, commodity organizations, allied industries, and other state agencies in educating students and the public, and in distributing information gleaned from research and extension activities at the university level. The Department educates and conducts research and extension and conducts research and extension projects related to physiology, biotechnology, microbiology, immunology nutrition, toxicology, animal well-meaning, and management with the ultimate goal of improving the production and wholesomeness of poultry as a food product. The Chicken Education Unit (CEU) conducts intensive research involving genomics, physiology, nutrition, animal feed quality, human food quality, welfare, and environmental aspects of chickens. The research is both applied and basic in nature with a great deal of detail in data collection required on a daily basis. The CEU also serves as a training ground for a large number of undergraduate and graduate students on a daily basis. The facility is complex mechanically, which requires daily maintenance of such items as fans, motors, ventilation systems, floor systems, feeders, drinkers, plumbing, etc. and attention to safety. The Prestage Department of Poultry Science is looking for a Research Operations Manager II to oversee our poultry research facilities, supporting faculty research, teaching, and extension programs. In this role, you'll ensure our facilities run smoothly, safely, and efficiently-from broiler breeder houses and layer operations to our hatchery and processing units-while leading a dedicated team and helping our research programs succeed. You will also provide logistical and operational support for research trials, including coordinating overlapping projects, managing grant-related compliance, monitoring flock health and welfare, and documenting outcomes. You'll build strong relationships with faculty, students, and external partners, hosting site visits, supporting collaborative initiatives, and communicating updates on research and farm operations. Your work will ensure research projects run smoothly, ethically, and efficiently, while maintaining confidentiality and high standards of biosecurity and safety. You will accomplish this by performing tasks in key areas of responsibility outlined below. If you enjoy leading teams, solving operational challenges, and contributing to impactful research, this role offers the chance to make a real difference in our department and the poultry industry.

Requirements

Bachelor's (4-year) degree and two years of general research experience, or Associate's degree, and 3 years of relevant research experience; or equivalent combination of training and experience.
Experience in an agricultural setting, preferably involving chickens or other farm animals
Familiarity with compliance, safety, and environmental standards for agricultural and animal research.
Proven ability with managing a research operation that involves organization of multiple projects and budgeting.
Ability to juggle multiple priorities and keep operations running smoothly.
Valid NC Driver's License required

Nice To Haves

5 years of agricultural research experience is a plus.
Proven supervisory and team leadership experience.
Knowledge of poultry or livestock handling best practices.

Responsibilities

Lead and supervise full- and part-time staff, including scheduling, training, and performance management.
Foster a collaborative, accountable, and safety-focused team culture.
Maintain poultry houses, hatchery, and processing units, overseeing environmental systems, preventive maintenance, and repairs.
Coordinate inventories, vendor services, and operational logistics to keep facilities running efficiently.
Manage budgets, reconcile accounts, and approve purchases.
Ensure compliance and cost-effective operations.
Prepare reports and coordinate with finance staff and vendors.
Enforce biosecurity, animal welfare, and safety standards.
Conduct inspections, maintain records, and investigate incidents.
Promote a culture of safety and compliance throughout the team.
Coordinate facility use for research trials and projects.
Assist with animal handling, sample collection, and accurate recordkeeping.
Serve as primary contact for faculty, students, staff, and external partners.
Host site visits and represent the program professionally.
Maintain detailed records, support collaborative initiatives, and ensure research compliance.
Manage egg, chick, and poultry product collection, processing, and sales.
Maintain inventory, labeling, and financial documentation.
Ensure humane handling and biosecurity in all operations.