Program Specialist I/II

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 :

• Once you start the application process you cannot save your work. Please ensure you have all required attachment(s) available to complete your application before you begin the process.
• Required attachments are listed below on the posting. Your application will not be considered without the required attachments.
• Please see the application instructions under each posting for information on submittal deadlines.

If you need assistance or have questions regarding the application process, contact Human Resources Hotline at (775) 673-7431 or [email protected].

Job Description

The Desert Research Institute (DRI) is seeking an organized and dedicated individual to fill a full-time Program Specialist position.

This role will support a variety of faculty, staff, technicians, and students within the Division of Atmospheric Sciences (DAS).

Under the Assistant Business Manager's supervision, the Program Specialist will operate with independent judgement, discretion, and initiative in a variety of administrative, fiscal, and planning activities.

A successful candidate will have a high level of organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills, all of which are essential to the role.

This position is located in Reno, NV and can be filled at a level I or II Program Specialist depending on experience. The position has potential for future growth and promotional opportunities.

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to :

• Assist with division correspondence, coordinate with HR, schedule appointments, and answer questions from staff.
• Participate in onboarding within the division for new graduate students and / or faculty and staff.
• Coordinate logistics of division meetings and other special events for DAS.
• Process tasks in Workday (purchase orders, reconcile purchasing card transactions, invoices, etc.).
• Collect and interpret data into various data entry programs including the DRI timesheet program and Workday.
• Upload deliverables, pull / send reports, and enter proposals into the Academic Research & Grants Information System (ARGIS).
• Collect travel and other reimbursement documentation for input into Workday.
• Coordinate hourly timesheet processing by training new hire hourly employees, communicating due dates, collecting documents for submission, and data entry into Workday prior to payroll deadlines.
• Provide administrative support as needed to the Division Director, Business Manager, and business staff.

Required Qualifications (Level I)

• High school diploma or equivalent AND one year of related experience.
• Basic computer skills with MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Ability to maintain confidential and sensitive information and documentation.
• Excellent organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills.
• Ability to prioritize assignments and commitment to meet deadlines.
• Detail-oriented with a strong degree of accuracy and reliability as well as sound judgment.
• Ability to work independently and carry out assignments with minimal supervision.
• Ability to establish effective working relationships with fellow employees, departments, and other campus personnel.

Additional Required Qualifications (Level II)

• Must meet all Level I requirements listed above.
• High school diploma or equivalent AND two years of full-time related experience OR an Associate's degree with 6 months of related experience.
• Intermediate computer skills with MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a related field from an accredited institution.
• Experience working in a research, non-profit, or university setting.
• Familiarity with Adobe Acrobat or similar software.
• Data entry experience.
• Experience with Workday (financial and personnel management system).

Conditions of Employment

This position may require the ability to perform physical tasks, such as moving or lifting objects from 10 - 20lbs., and occasional stooping, bending, and kneeling.

Sitting and staring at a computer screen for long periods of time.

Organizational Summary

The Desert Research Institute (DRI) is a recognized world leader in basic and applied environmental research. Committed to scientific excellence and integrity, DRI faculty, students who work alongside them, and staff have developed scientific knowledge and innovative technologies in research projects around the globe.

Since 1959, DRI's research has advanced scientific knowledge on topics ranging from humans' impact on the environment to the environment's impact on humans.

DRI's impactful science and inspiring solutions support Nevada's diverse economy, provide science-based educational opportunities, and inform policymakers, business leaders, and community members.

With campuses in Las Vegas and Reno, DRI serves as the non-profit research arm of the Nevada System of Higher Education.

Compensation Grade / Benefits

This is a DRI Technologist position, with a minimum salary of $49,722 for a grade 29 (Program Specialist I) or a minimum salary of $53,820 for a grade 31 (Program Specialist II) effective 10 / 1 / 24.

The final starting salary will be commensurate with the successful candidate's education and experience.

DRI offers a benefits package that includes health, dental, vision, and life insurance (flexible spending and health savings account options available);

PERS 17.5% retirement match, 10 hours of annual leave and 10 hours of sick leave accrued per month, 12 paid holidays, and educational benefits.

Additionally, there is no state income tax or social security deduction. This position is eligible for relocation assistance.

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility

DRI is deeply committed to supporting a diverse and inclusive workforce and recognizes that encouraging a diverse culture strengthens problem solving skills and creativity and increases productivity.

An inclusive and diverse environment improves the workplace culture and encourages employee engagement. DRI also takes measures consistent with Title IX to ensure the safety and wellbeing of its students, faculty, and staff.

Additional information can be found on DRI's Diversity and Inclusion Webpage.

Exempt

Full-Time Equivalent

100.0%

Required Attachment(s)

Please upload the following documents in the specified section :

• 1. A cover letter detailing your experience related to this position and the qualifications listed above;
• 2. A resume;

3. Contact information for three professional / work-related references, to be contacted at the appropriate phase of the recruitment process based on applicant permission.

This posting is open until filled. Qualified individuals who meet all qualifications requirements are encouraged to apply immediately and provide all required attachments to receive full consideration.

Lists of eligible candidates will be established and hiring may occur early in the recruiting process. Recruitment will close without notice when a sufficient number of applications are received, or a hiring decision has been made.

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR INTERNAL NSHE CANDIDATES

DRI employees or employees within the Nevada System of Higher Education (NSHE) MUST use the "Browse Jobs" report within Workday to find and apply for jobs at DRI and other NSHE Institutions.

Once you log into Workday, type "Browse Jobs" in the search box which will navigate to the internal job posting site. Locate this specific job posting by typing the job requisition number, "R0144682" in the search box.

For more detailed information about DRI, please visit us at www.dri.edu. For questions regarding this position or assistance with your application, please call the recruiting office at 775-673-7431.

Posting Close Date

Note to Applicant

Applicants should fully describe their qualifications and experience with specific reference to each of the minimum and preferred qualifications.

The search committee will use this information during the initial review of application materials.

References will be contacted at the appropriate phase of the recruitment process based on applicant notification and permission.

Newly hired faculty and postdoctoral fellows must assure that their official transcript is submitted to the Human Resources Office within 30 calendar days from the effective date of employment.

Academic degrees must have been awarded by regionally accredited institutions.

This position may require a criminal background check to be conducted on the candidate(s) selected for hire.

As part of the hiring process, applicants for positions in the Nevada System of Higher Education may be required to demonstrate the ability to perform job-related tasks.

DRI employs only U.S. citizens and aliens authorized to work in the U.S. DRI only sponsors aliens applying for research faculty or postdoctoral fellow positions (J-1 or H-1B Visas).

All applicants hired by the Desert Research Institute are subject to E-Verify.