Project Manager for Research & Coalition Development

Title: Project Manager for Research & Coalition Development

Department: Research & Coalition Development

Reports to: Vice President for Research & Coalition Development (VPRCD)

Effective Date: January 7, 2026

Location: Moscow, Idaho; frequent travel required

Role Overview

The Project Manager for Research & Coalition Development plays a critical role in advancing USA Pulses’ research initiatives and coalition-building strategies. This position provides operational and project management support to ensure timely execution of research programs, coalition engagement activities, and compliance with organizational standards. The Project Manager will coordinate logistics, support maintaining research and membership databases, and assist with committee operations. The role requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Key Responsibilities

Project Coordination & Membership Services Support

·       Assist VPRCD in planning, implementing, and tracking research and coalition development projects.

·       Coordinate timelines, deliverables, and reporting for research programs (e.g., Pulse Crop Health Initiative, Pulse Quality Network).

·       Support coalition-building efforts, including membership engagement events and activities, and working with the Membership Director (MD) in managing the membership database.

·       Assist VPRCD and MD in maintaining and updating the assessment database each month for the USA Pulses Coalition.

·       As needed, provide support to the Communications Director with member/stakeholder communications and related tasks.

Research Administration

·       As needed, assist with updating research database/website; ensure accurate cataloging of projects and outcomes, and providing support in promoting research projects and priorities.

·       Assist with grant application preparation, compliance documentation, and reporting.

·       Support variety release/licensing processes and crop protection initiatives as directed.

Committee & Event Support

·       Provide logistical and administrative support for board and committee meetings, including agenda preparation, materials distribution, and minutes.

·       Assist in planning and executing member events, webinars, and coalition engagement activities.

·       Support developing presentations and visual materials for board/committee meetings and stakeholder engagement.

Budget & Compliance Assistance

·       Track project budgets and expenses; ensure proper documentation for audits and compliance with USDA and organizational standards.

·       Support the Vice President of Research & Coalition Development in preparing reports for internal and external stakeholders.

Travel: Frequent travel required in accordance with USDA regulations and USA Pulses guidelines.

Minimum Qualifications

·       Education: BS/BA in agriculture, plant science, food science, public administration, or related field.

·       Experience: 3–5 years in project management and research administration.

·       Strong organizational and time-management skills; ability to manage multiple priorities.

·       Excellent oral and written communication skills.

·       Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, project management tools, and database systems.

·       Ability and willingness to travel as needed.

Preferred Qualifications

·       Familiarity with agricultural research programs, crop improvement, and coalition development.

·       Experience with grant writing, compliance, and budget tracking.

·       Knowledge of pulse crops and the food manufacturing supply chain.

·       Experience with planning, organizing, and promoting membership and trade events.

·       Proficiency in leveraging AI tools (e.g., Microsoft Copilot, ChatGPT) for workflow efficiency and data analysis.

About USA Pulses

Mission: We are an innovative group of organizations united to increase consumption and production of U.S. pulse crops.

Vision: Short Term: To double pulse crop consumption and production. Long Term: To establish USA pulses as a major crop in our food production system by providing high quality, nutrient dense and sustainable foods that will improve human and environmental health.

Values: We believe pulses have a positive impact on people and the planet. We believe USA Pulses can help end world hunger, revolutionize our food system, improve diet quality, lower carbon and water use, support family farms, and improve soil, water, and planetary health.