R&D Project Manager

Research & Development Project Manager - Agriculture & Specialty Products

Why American Vanguard?

American Vanguard was founded in 1969 and is a $600M diversified agricultural and specialty products company focusing on crop protection, turf and ornamental markets, and public health applications.   

The Company markets its product lines in the USA and internationally in 24 countries, including Brazil, Latin America, Mexico, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and several other countries in Asia.   

American Vanguard has four primary multi-product chemical manufacturing facilities in the USA. In addition, the Company operates three biological manufacturing plants (in the USA, Mexico and India). Our manufacturing facilities operate batch processing systems and synthesize chemicals and formulate those products into finished goods. 

We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled R&D Project Manager to oversee and coordinate the work of our global R&D teams across multiple laboratories. The successful candidate will report directly to the Vice President, Global R&D. This role is key to managing R&D efforts for our diverse portfolio of agrochemical products including agriculture, specialty/professional and biological products, and ensuring that project goals are aligned with the company's strategic objectives.

Role Description:

The R&D Project Manager will support the organization by overseeing global R&D project management, ensuring alignment across multiple laboratories and regions. This role includes responsibility for coordinating project timelines, budgets, and resource allocation, while ensuring compliance with global regulatory standards. The manager will also lead efforts to implement standardized R&D processes across global teams, focusing on innovation, efficiency, and quality. An in-depth understanding of agrochemical product development processes and regulatory requirements will be critical to success in this role.

Job Duties and Responsibilities:

• Oversee and manage global R&D projects across multiple research labs, ensuring alignment with business goals and strategic priorities
• Coordinate the efforts of cross-functional teams across different regions to drive innovation and product development in the agrochemical space
• Collaborate with the Global R&D VP and senior leadership to establish project timelines, budgets, and resource allocation strategies
• Monitor and report on project progress, identifying and addressing potential risks or roadblocks
• Ensure that all R&D projects adhere to global regulatory standards, safety protocols, and quality control measures
• Drive continuous improvement in R&D processes, fostering a culture of innovation and operational efficiency across all labs

Education, Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  Basic Qualifications:

• Bachelor's or advanced degree in Chemistry, Biology, Agronomy, or related scientific field
• Master's / PhD Preferred
• 8 + years of experience managing global R&D projects in the agrochemical, biotechnology, or related industries
• Proven experience leading cross-functional teams across multiple regions, ensuring alignment and collaboration
• In-depth knowledge of agrochemical product development, including regulatory requirements and industry standards (e.g., EPA, FDA)
• Project management software expertise including Microsoft Project, SmartSheet or similar

  Individual Skills:

• Strong leadership to drive global team alignment and collaboration
• Expertise in managing complex R&D projects with focus on budgeting and timely execution.
• Effective communication of technical concepts to senior management and stakeholders.
• Analytical problem-solving and risk management skills

  Mindset & Behaviors:

• Works well under pressure in an entrepreneurial environment.
• Self-starter, motivated.  
• Must be able to work independently on assigned projects/programs.
• Willingness to be hands-on, with the ability to delegate.
• Flexible, Mature, Team player with strong analytical skills.

Benefits:

• Health insurance including Medical, Dental, Vision, Life
• Health Savings Account (HSA) / Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
• 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan with employer matching
• Employee Stock Purchasing Plan (ESPP) with employee discount
• Vacation & Holiday pay
• Wellness program and more

 AMVAC is an American Vanguard Company (NYSE: AVD). We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.