Jobs and Careers

Executive Director, Division of Hydrologic Sciences

United Statesfull_timeVerifiedPosted 25 Sept 2025

💰 $250,000/yr

About the role

Thank you for your interest in employment with the Desert Research Institute. We want your application process to go smoothly and quickly. We ask that you keep in mind the following when completing your application:

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If you need assistance or have questions regarding the application process, contact Human Resources Hotline at (775) 673-7431 or recruit@dri.edu.

Job Description

The Desert Research Institute (DRI), the non-profit environmental research institution of the Nevada System of Higher Education (NSHE), is seeking a qualified individual to provide scientific leadership and management for its Division of Hydrologic Sciences (DHS). The primary function of the DHS Executive Director is to support, facilitate, and expand Division faculty research through networking and leadership that augments and enhances the Division’s faculty generated revenues and multidisciplinary research. DRI has two campuses, one in Reno and one in Las Vegas, NV, with DHS faculty located on both campuses. The position can be based at either campus, and will require routine travel to the other campus.

The successful candidate will: 1) perform oversight of DHS personnel; 2) provide career support for DHS personnel and recruit new talent; 3) work with faculty to maintain and grow the existing portfolio of DHS research projects; 4) assist faculty to identify new opportunities by leveraging existing capabilities and engaging with potential sponsors of future research, and 5) provide leadership and oversight of DHS resources.

Management and Division Responsibilities

Effectively manage DHS personnel, including maintaining healthy and collaborative inter-personnel interactions, conducting annual performance evaluations, and recommending faculty for promotions and awards.
Work with the Division Administration to establish revenue projections, set budget priorities, and coordinate fiscal affairs with the Financial Services Office.
Prioritize allocation of Divisional funds in a way that optimizes efforts by faculty members to grow DHS’ sponsored research portfolio. This includes the strategic hiring of additional faculty.
Mentor directly, or provide mentorship opportunities, for faculty and staff.

Research Program Development and Implementation Responsibilities

Network with potential sponsors, agencies, and clients, as well as build teams and collaborations within and outside of DRI to raise funds to support laboratories, facilities, and current and new research areas.
Provide guidance and support to individual faculty to assist in program planning and development.
Explore new areas of research that play to the strengths of the Division and Institute, as well as expanding current strengths.
Identify and provide professional growth opportunities for faculty to build skills in proposal development, grant writing, and other forms of funding acquisition.
Ensure optimum planning and use of existing equipment, funds, and facilities. Prioritize on-going DHS facility needs and advocate for additional resources as necessary.

Leadership Skills