Project Manager

Online applications must be received before 11:59pm on:June 28, 2026If a date is not listed above, review the Applicant Instructions below for more details.Available Title(s):321-YN_FACULTY - Associate inBusiness Title:Project ManagerEmployee Type:Faculty (+) (Fixed Term)Position Term:12 MonthPosition Details:The Opportunity:Washington State University (WSU) invites applications for a Project Manager to lead innovative research on X-disease and its vectors in stone fruit systems. This role will design and execute laboratory and field experiments to advance understanding of X-disease biology, ecology, and management strategies.Primary research efforts will include evaluating symbiont-based technologies for potential X-disease treatments, conducting greenhouse trials to assess vector transmission efficiency, and investigating the fundamental interactions between X-disease and its vectors. The outcomes of this work will directly inform disease management practices for the tree fruit industry.This position requires strong organizational and time management skills to successfully coordinate multiple concurrent projects. The Project Manager will collaborate closely with partners at WSU, the USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS), and other stakeholders, while supervising project staff and ensuring high-quality research execution.The position is based within the Northfield Lab at WSU and involves collaboration with the USDA ARS Temperate Tree Fruit and Vegetable Research Laboratory in Wapato, WA.Summary of Duties: The Project Manager will:Design and implement laboratory, greenhouse, and field experiments focused on X-disease and its vectorsEvaluate novel treatment approaches, including symbiont-based technologiesInvestigate vector biology, ecology, and transmission dynamicsCollect, organize, analyze, and interpret complex datasetsCommunicate findings through reports, peer-reviewed publications, and stakeholder outreachCollaborate with multidisciplinary teams and external partnersPresent research findings to industry groups, scientific audiences, and collaboratorsDevelop content for web-based extension platforms, including:WSU Tree Fruit (http://treefruit.wsu.edu)Orchard Pest Management http://treefruit.wsu.edu/crop-protection/opm/)Washington Tree Fruit Crop Protection Guide (http://cpg.treefruit.wsu.edu/)DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITES: 80% – ResearchPlan, design, and conduct experiments leading to publicationEvaluate emerging treatment technologies and vector transmission dynamicsPerform greenhouse and field trialsAnalyze and interpret data using sound scientific principlesCollaborate with researchers, lab members, and stakeholdersTranslate findings into actionable insights for diverse audiences10% – SupervisionSupervise and mentor project staff and support personnelCoordinate project activities and ensure timely completion of research objectives5% – Outreach and ExtensionDeliver presentations to the tree fruit industry and scientific communityDevelop educational and extension materials for broader audiences5% – Other DutiesSupport departmental, college, and university initiatives as neededAdditional Information:Annual Salary: $50,000 - $55,200 | Commensurate with experience and qualificationsIn accordance with RCW 49.58.110, the above salary reflects the full salary range for this position. Individual placement within the range is based on the candidate’s current experience, education, skills, and abilities related to the position. Successful candidates typically begin up to mid-point of the salary range.Benefits: WSU offers a comprehensive benefits package which includes paid sick and vacation leave; paid holidays; medical, dental, life and disability insurance package for employees and dependents; retirement; deferred compensation, optional supplemental retirement accounts. For additional information, please review the detailed Summary of Benefits offered by WSU for Faculty and Total Compensation.Required Qualifications:Earned M.S. in Entomology or related field.Experience conducting research in tree fruit integrated pest management.Demonstrated ability to design experiments and collect and analyze data.Complete understanding of entomology and entomological procedures.Knowledge of commercial agriculture and commercial pest management.Have or be able to obtain at the time of hire a pesticide applicator’s license.Demonstrated effective interpersonal, written and oral communication skills.Demonstrated ability to interact with large groups and individuals at all work levels.Demonstrated commitment to valuing diversity and contributing to an inclusive educational and working environment.Demonstrated proficiency in the use of computers and software applications.Preferred Qualifications:Experience working on X-disease vectors and/or codling moth.Experience working directly with tree fruit industry stakeholders.Experience giving extension presentations to the tree fruit industry.Position Sponsorship Eligibility: Not eligible for work visa sponsorshipAbout Department/College/Area/ Campus - https://tfrec.cahnrs.wsu.edu/northfield/ Area/College: College of Agricultural, Human and Natural Resource Sciences (CAHNRS)Department Name: WSU Wenatchee Tree Fruit Research and Extension CenterLocation: Wapato, WA (USDA-ARS)Application Instructions: Applicants must upload the following required documents to their online application. Application materials should clearly communicate how the applicant meets all required qualifications and additional requirements.1) Resume2) Cover LetterExternal candidates, upload all documents in the “Application Document” section of your application.Current WSU Employees (internal candidates), before starting your Workday application, please use these instructions to update your education and experience in your worker profile in Workday. Internal candidates, upload all documents in the “Resume/Cover Letter” section of your application.Documents may be submitted as one file or separat