Job Description

Business Manager Center for Ocean Enterprise

The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Business Manager Center for Ocean Enterprise.

Position Details Location Marine Research Center

1030 West Pier, Port of Gulfport
Gulfport, Mississippi, 39501
United States Division Ocean Enterprise Position Type Staff Employment Status Full Time Grant Funded Yes Pay Grade

E11

Posting Close Date September 17, 2026

Special Instructions to Applicants
Must be able to obtain a TWIC (Transportation Workers Identification Credential)

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the
United States on a full-time basis without the need for visa sponsorship. The
University will not sponsor applicants for work visas (e.g., H-1B).


The Business
Manager for The Roger F. Wicker Center for Ocean Enterprise (COE) oversees the
Center’s administrative and business operations, including tenant and partner
relations, staffing coordination, facility operations, agreements, and internal
business processes. The position supports the Executive Director with
operational planning, business development, and process improvement and
coordinates with COE staff, University offices, and external partners to ensure
efficient and compliant operations.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

1. Oversees day-to-day administrative and business operations of the COE, including operational workflows, space utilization, facility access, and resource coordination. Works with COE staff to support scheduling, events, visitors, and other operational needs.
2. Serves as a primary liaison to tenant companies and external partners utilizing COE facilities and resources. Supports the Executive Director with business development and partnership opportunities, coordinates facility and service needs, and ensures compliance with applicable lease terms, facility requirements, and University and Center policies.
3. Coordinates staffing and HR-related administrative processes, including recruitment support, hiring documentation, onboarding, training coordination, payroll submissions, timekeeping verification, and required records. Works with University Human Resources, hiring managers, and COE leadership to facilitate staffing processes and requirements.
4. Coordinates the administrative processing of leases, service agreements, research agreements, and other business arrangements. Works with companies, government partners, University Counsel, and appropriate University offices to facilitate review, approval, execution, payment, and recordkeeping.
5. Supports the Executive Director in operational planning and the development and implementation of Center policies, procedures, and business processes. Evaluates workflows, identifies operational needs, and recommends improvements to enhance efficiency and service delivery.
6. Collaborates with the Financial Coordinator and Administrative Operations Coordinator to coordinate Center business activities, including budget planning, grants and projects, procurement, purchasing, travel, contract administration, financial processes, and other administrative operations.
7. Maintains operational records and documentation, supports compliance with University and Center requirements, and promotes effective customer service and working relationships with internal and external stakeholders. Performs other duties as assigned.

• Knowledge of business and administrative operations, practices, and procedures.
• Strong organizational, planning, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, projects, and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to coordinate operational processes and work effectively across functional areas.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, with internal and external stakeholders.
• Ability to analyze operational needs and recommend process improvements.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and other business and administrative software applications.
• Ability to work independently, exercise sound judgment, and maintain effective working relationships.

About The University of Southern Mississippi
Since our founding in 1910, The University of Southern
Mississippi has remained dedicated to preparing
students for success. We deliver programs to more than 13,000 students
in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across the
Mississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. We
are a community-engaged Carnegie R1 university, earning distinction as one of
the nation's leading research institutions.

Southern Miss is known for pioneering work in
polymer science, ocean science, spectator sports safety and security, and bringing
language to children with communication disorders. We are also a national
leader in a broad range of disciplines, including cybersecurity, hydrography,
nutrition, aquaculture, kinesiology, and economic development, among others.

We produce graduates ready to enter
fields that are leading the way in emerging technologies through programs such
as computer engineering, information technology, and ocean engineering. We’re developing the next generation of
business leaders, while also responding to critical workforce shortages by
producing skilled professionals in education and nursing. With a tradition of
excellence in the arts, we are one of only 36 public institutions in the nation
accredited in four major areas of the arts. Home to the Golden Eagles, our
student-athletes compete in 17 NCAA Division I sports. With a culture marked by passion and
persistence, Southern Miss is delivering graduates who are ready for life. For more information, visit www.usm.edu

The University of Southern Mississippi is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. EOE/VETS/DISABILITY.