ECHO Director, Research Support (ECHO Research Operations)

Current Employees:If you are a current Staff, Faculty or Temporary employee at the University of Miami, please click here to log in to Workday to use the internal application process. To learn how to apply for a faculty or staff position, please review this tip sheet.Core Job SummaryThe Director, Operations – ECHO is responsible for overseeing operational execution of the Environmental Influences on Child Health Outcomes (ECHO) study at the University of Miami. Under the direction of the Principal Investigator, this role integrates strategic planning, project management, and operational leadership to ensure successful study execution.This position leads all participant-facing operations including workforce planning, recruitment, retention, scheduling, and participant engagement. The role ensures alignment with NIH protocols, institutional policies, and study objectives while coordinating with laboratory, data, and regulatory leadership.Core Job Functions Strategic Planning Develop and implement operational strategies aligned with NIH ECHO protocol objectives. Establish timelines, milestones, and operational deliverables. Continuously assess operational performance and adjust strategies accordingly. Project Management Oversee daily research operations and participant-facing workflows. Coordinate activities among research staff, clinical teams, and community partners. Monitor study progress and address operational barriers. Participant Recruitment and Retention Oversee recruitment workflows and assign staff based on clinic volume and demand. Implement retention strategies and monitor participant engagement. Oversee follow-up, re-engagement, and lost-to-contact recovery efforts. Workforce Planning and Staff Management Determine clinic workload and staffing needs. Assign clinical and research staff to ensure operational efficiency. Provide leadership, supervision, and performance management. Scheduling and Visit Coordination Oversee scheduling of clinic, home, and SONHS visits. Ensure alignment between staffing, participant availability, and study timelines. Monitor missed visits and implement recovery workflows. Participant Communication and Engagement Oversee all communication platforms including phone, messaging, and digital tools. Ensure timely participant outreach and issue resolution. Maintain communication tracking and engagement standards. Participant Support and Barrier Resolution Identify and resolve participant barriers including logistical and technical issues. Oversee the coordination of transportation and visit logistics. Oversee the escalation of complex issues to appropriate teams, bridging communication across study personnel. Financial and Budget Coordination Oversee participant payment workflows including verification, processing, and reconciliation. Monitor budget-related operational expenses and ensure compliance. Compliance and Reporting Ensure adherence to NIH, IRB, and institutional policies. Support preparation of reports, documentation, and audit readiness. Collaboration and Communication Serve as liaison between local operations and national ECHO leadership. Facilitate team meetings and cross-functional collaboration. Support manuscript preparation and reporting efforts.Core QualificationsEducation:Bachelor’s Degree in relevant field, requiredMaster’s degree in relevant field, requiredExperience:Minimum 5–7 Years Of Relevant ExperienceKnowledge, Skills, and Attitudes:Ability to recognize, analyze, and solve a variety of problems.Ability to exercise sound judgment in making critical decisions.Demonstrated expertise in research design, data analysis, and interpretation.Strong computer skills with proficiency in Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook.Highly organized, analytical and detail oriented with strong planning and writing skills, ability to work independently and think through activities, projects or initiatives with tight deadlines.Ability to manage confidential information and oversee complex projects.Ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary team environment.Excellent communication – verbal and written, interpersonal and organizational skills, and a collaborative management style.DEPARTMENT ADDENDUMECHO-Specific Department Functions Operational Oversight Oversee all participant-facing workflows including recruitment, scheduling, and follow-up. Work with the principal investigator to manage active research studies focused on maternal-child health in addition to the Miami ECHO study. Manage IRB submissions and modifications. Workforce Management Manage clinic workload, staffing assignments, and team performance. Train research staff on specific duties and responsibilities and serve as the cohort trainer for the Miami cohort. Manage the ordering and purchasing of all study materials including but not limited to data collection supplies, recruitment materials, and laboratory supplies. Participant Lifecycle Management Oversee participant engagement from recruitment through study completion. Oversight of Miami-ECHO recruitment team of 4-6 research associates Manages the recruitment team’s schedule and assigns each individual to their weekly locations. Assures that recruitment team meets monthly recruitment milestones. Leads weekly and monthly meetings with recruitment team. Financial Coordination Oversee participant payments and financial documentation. Cross-Functional Coordination Coordinate with laboratory, data, and compliance teams. Manage communication with ECHO leadership team and serve as the liaison between the ECHO components and the ECHO investigators and staff at the University of Miami cohort.Direct Reports: CRC Manager Clinical Research Coordinators (I-III) Research Associates (I-III) Student Research AssociatesThe University of Miami is recognized as one of the nation’s premier research institutions and academic health systems and is among the largest employers in South Florida.With more than 20,000 faculty and staff, the University is committed to excellence and guided by a mission to positively impact the lives of students, patients, and communities locally and globally.We are dedicated to fostering a culture where every individual feels valued and empowered to contribute meaningfully. United by shared values, the University community works together to build an environment defined by purpose, collaboration, and service.The University of Miami is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Applicants and employees are protected from discrimination based on certain categories protected by Federal law. Click here for additional information.Job Status:Full timeEmployee Type:Staff