Station Manager

Job Posting Organization:
CIMMYT, the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center, is a cutting-edge, non-profit, international organization dedicated to addressing the challenges of agricultural production and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security. Established to enhance the quantity, quality, and reliability of production systems for staple crops such as maize, wheat, and other cereals, CIMMYT operates primarily in the Global South. The organization focuses on building strong partnerships to improve the livelihoods of resource-poor farmers and to create a more productive, inclusive, and resilient agrifood system while respecting planetary boundaries. CIMMYT's mission is to foster agricultural innovation and sustainability through applied agricultural science, and it has a significant presence in various countries, working collaboratively with local and international stakeholders to achieve its goals.

Job Overview:
The Station Manager position at CIMMYT is a critical role within the Global Wheat Program, aimed at providing comprehensive administrative, operational, and logistical support to ensure the smooth delivery of program activities. The successful candidate will be responsible for overseeing the coordination of field staff and managing the various stages of the crop cycle, ensuring compliance with institutional processes and timely facilitation of program operations. This role requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to manage multiple tasks effectively. The Station Manager will also maintain close communication with research staff to support project development and coordinate maintenance work for green areas and greenhouses. The position demands strong leadership skills, as the manager will be responsible for recruiting and managing both temporary and permanent staff, ensuring that the station operates efficiently and effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Station Manager will have a diverse set of responsibilities, including:

• Managing field staff to coordinate activities at each stage of the crop cycle, following research program instructions.
• Supervising various areas to ensure compliance with established instructions and procedures by field staff.
• Maintaining close contact with research staff to facilitate project development activities.
• Coordinating maintenance work for green areas and greenhouses, and conducting agricultural research related to herbicides and cover crops.
• Scheduling services and maintenance for equipment, facilities, and furniture at the research station to ensure optimal conditions.
• Recommending necessary agronomic adjustments in experimental plots to enhance research efficiency and results.
• Managing recruitment processes for temporary and permanent staff to meet research program needs.
• Ensuring accurate and timely execution of administrative and accounting activities to comply with established programs and legal requirements.
• Maintaining control over allocated funds, ensuring proper use and compliance with the assigned budget. 1
• Monitoring charges to programs for the use of planting areas. 1
• Reviewing station reports for accuracy and timeliness, ensuring relevant areas receive them. 1
• Coordinating activities with security staff to ensure personnel safety and protect station equipment and facilities. 1
• Maintaining communication with private, public, and governmental institutions for proper representation of the Center. 1
• Performing additional activities as assigned by the immediate supervisor.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture, Agronomy, Agribusiness, Environmental Science, Crop Science, Plant Breeding, or a related field. Additionally, at least 10 years of relevant work experience in research trial management is required, with a demonstrated ability to manage large-scale field and/or greenhouse activities. Strong knowledge of agronomy, irrigation management, greenhouse management, and cereal crop production is essential. Familiarity with farm machinery, irrigation systems, and electrical installations is highly desirable. Candidates should also exhibit effective team leadership skills, a high level of responsibility, and strong communication and stakeholder management abilities.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as Agriculture, Agronomy, Agribusiness, Environmental Science, Crop Science, or Plant Breeding is required for this position. This educational background provides the necessary foundation for understanding the complexities of agricultural research and management.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a minimum of 10 years of relevant work experience in research trial management. This experience should include demonstrated capabilities in managing large-scale field and greenhouse activities, showcasing a strong understanding of agronomy and agricultural practices.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is mandatory for this position. The ability to communicate effectively in English is crucial for collaboration with international teams and stakeholders. Additional language skills may be considered an asset but are not explicitly required.

Additional Notes:
CIMMYT offers an attractive remuneration package that includes benefits such as a year-end bonus (40 days), vacation premium (56%), life and medical insurance, supermarket coupons, a savings fund, and social benefits in accordance with Mexican Labor Law (IMSS, SAR / Infonavit). Candidates must apply online for the position M25323_Toluca Station Manager, including a CV in English with contact details of three work-related references and a cover letter. Incomplete applications will not be considered, and only short-listed candidates will be contacted. This position is open until filled, and CIMMYT is committed to fostering a multicultural work environment that values gender equality and diversity, encouraging women to apply.