Desert Research Institute Looking for Program Specialist II Full Time

Under the Business Manager’s supervision, the Program Specialist will operate with independent judgement, discretion, and initiative in a variety of administrative, fiscal, and planning activities. This position is located in Reno, NV.

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.
• Assist in planning of division meetings and events.
• 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, Academic Research & Grants Information System (ARGIS), and Workday.
• Collect travel and other reimbursement documentation for input into Workday.
• Provide timesheet orientation to new hourly employees and assist with questions.
• Coordinate hourly timesheet processing by 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, Division Business Manager, and business staff.

Required Qualifications

• 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 Excel, Word, and Adobe Acrobat.
• Ability to maintain confidential and sensitive information and documentation.
• Strong organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills.
• Ability to prioritize assignments and commitment to meet deadlines.
• Detail-oriented with 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.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field from an accredited institution.
• Knowledge and familiarity with budgets, and the budget process.
• Experience working in a research, non-profit, or university setting.
• 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 – 20 lbs., 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 $48,427 for a grade 31. 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.

Required Attachment(s)

Please upload the following documents in the specified section:

• A cover letter detailing your research experience, career goals, and project interests;
• A resume;
• 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.

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 775-673-7335.