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POSITION SPECIFICS

The Social Science Research Institute at Penn State seeks a Managing Director (Research Operations Manager - Senior Manager level) who will contribute to strategic planning, and creatively and tactically oversee its implementation across the institute.

SSRI’s strategic mission is to f oster novel, interdisciplinary collaborations by investigators who aim to address critical human and social problems at the local, national, and international levels and to translate and disseminate this knowledge into measurable outcomes for human behavior, health, and development.

The Managing Director will collaborate with SSRI leadership and staff to implement a new strategic plan focused on streamlining and optimizing core functions. They will lead efforts to continually improve the institute’s operations, supports, and services, while coordinating and overseeing SSRI’s central administration—including operations, facilities, research core facilities, HR and staff support, finance, administrative support, event planning, and project management.

They will also develop and oversee shared research services in partnership with directors of grants administration, research computing, and communications. Responsibilities include tracking activities and expenditures, analyzing data, and providing metrics to inform strategic decisions and guide SSRI operations.

SSRI comprises nearly 90 staff and research faculty, led by the Institute Director and a team of associate directors and directors of core facilities, research centers, institutes, and workgroups. All SSRI staff report directly or indirectly to the Managing Director.

Responsibilities: The Managing Director will have the following responsibilities:

• Budget Administration : Serve as the Budget Administrator, lead and coordinate budget development; provide financial analysis for strategic planning, manage income and expenditures to meet strategic goals cost-effectively, oversee financial operations of SSRI user facilities.
• Strategic Initiatives : Research, develop, and implement special projects and initiatives aligned with SSRI’s mission.
• Human Resources : In collaboration with the OSVPR HR office, assess staffing needs and employee issues; oversee hiring, training, supervision, and evaluation of SSRI staff.
• Research Support Services : Oversee development and operations of services including the grants and contracts office and its manager.
• Compliance and Representation : Ensure adherence to University, government, and regulatory requirements; represent SSRI in initiatives and committees, serve as liaison with campus units and University offices.
• Customer Service : Provide high-level service and general technical support to internal and external stakeholders, identify areas for improvement, recommend and implement solutions, and seek guidance as needed.

Required Skills and Experience: This position requires a strong background in accounting procedures, supervisory/personnel procedures and administration procedures, as well as excellent written and verbal communication skills. The successful candidate should be a proven leader with experience managing employees with the ability to build efficient relationships and effectively facilitate communication.

Preferred Skills and Experience: SAP-Concur experience and/or Project Management certification/experience is highly desirable.

Work Arrangement – SSRI is supportive of flexible work arrangements when aligned with the ability to meet the needs of the unit and the essential duties of the position. Questions related to flexible work arrangements should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.

MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS

Master's Degree
10+ years of relevant experience, includes 3+ years of supervisory experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted
Required Certifications:
None

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.

SALARY & BENEFITS

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $109,300.00 - $164,000.00.

Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page .

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here .

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.

The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university’s teaching, research, and service mission.

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