The University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science (UMCES) is a premier research institution dedicated to advancing scientific understanding of the environment and applying that knowledge to address pressing environmental challenges. With a mission to conduct world-class research, educate future environmental leaders, and provide unbiased scientific information to inform public policy, the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science (UMCES) plays a vital role in protecting and restoring our natural resources. UMCES researchers work across a wide range of disciplines, from ecology and oceanography to environmental economics and social science, to understand complex environmental challenges facing Maryland, the nation, and the world.
For over 40 years, Maryland Sea Grant (MDSG) has worked to support research to address knowledge gaps in science-based management; to guide extension and outreach efforts to engage multiple audiences; and to drive formal and nonformal education work to build a science-literate workforce across the Chesapeake and coastal bays and their watersheds. Integrating among these efforts, MDSG creates programming to address critical environmental issues, including restoring water quality, supporting sustainable fisheries, addressing climate change, and building resilient communities. Maryland Sea Grant fosters healthy coastal ecosystems, communities, and economies through science, education, outreach, and broad collaboration.
Position Summary
The Director of Maryland Sea Grant (MDSG) provides leadership, vision, and administrative oversight for the MDSG program. As outlined in the Maryland Strategic Plan (2024 – 2027) the Director must ensure the program’s continued growth and innovation, while aligning with the University System of Maryland and the NOAA National Sea Grant College program. This Director position carries a 100% administrative appointment within the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science (UMCES) focused on MDSG administration and leadership. The Director also oversees a subaward to the University of Maryland Sea Grant Extension program within the University of Maryland, College Park where Extension faculty and staff reside. The Director is expected to set program strategy and collaborate among Maryland’s universities, and with state and federal agencies, policymakers, private sector partners, municipalities, and non-governmental organizations. The Director takes a multifaceted approach to advance MDSG’s mission while overseeing programmatic, fiscal, and operational functions. The Director is responsible for creating a safe and supportive work environment which retains talent and allows MDSG staff and colleagues to thrive.
The Director of MDSG will have a full-time (12-month) staff appointment within UMCES located at the MDSG office in College Park, MD.
Required Qualifications
Ph.D. in a relevant field such as aquatic/marine science, coastal environmental policy, or related discipline.
Strong leadership skills with a commitment to fostering a workplace culture of belonging, engagement, and excellence.
Excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
Minimum ten years’ experience in program administration, strategic planning, and leadership within an academic, governmental, or nonprofit setting.
Deep acumen in academic and federal funding mechanisms, grants, and financial management.
Proven ability to cultivate and maintain relationships with diverse audiences, including policymakers, industry leaders, non-governmental/local organizations, and academic institutions.
Proven experience in people management, including staff supervision, performance evaluations, mentorship, professional development, and team leadership.
Preferred Competencies of Competitive Applicants
Experience writing and submitting interdisciplinary grants with multiple institutions and complex multi-year project goals and budgets.
Experience using Workday management software and eSeaGrant.
Experience in workforce development, professional training, participatory learning, and mentoring programs.
Experience in building and leading effective teams in science, education and outreach.
Knowledge of Maryland, the Chesapeake and coastal bays and their watersheds, and regional coastal policy and economic development efforts.
Experience fundraising from public and private sources.
Experience developing and promoting learning opportunities for students, from secondary through post-graduate education and supporting education staff.
Demonstrated expertise working with the National Sea Grant College Program (NSGCP), the Sea Grant Association (SGA), and the SGA national networks (e.g. research, fiscal, communications) including collaboration on NSGCP and SGA initiatives.
Salary Range: $150,000 to $200,000