Program Specialist II

Job Description

Desert Research Institute (DRI) is seeking an organized and dedicated team player to fill a temporary, full‑time Program Specialist II position at the Reno, NV DRI Campus. This in‑person role supports the Nevada Robotics education program under the Nevada Robotics Director’s supervision. The Program Specialist will provide administrative support, exhibit attention to detail, sound judgment, confidentiality, and efficiency. Ideal candidates are collaborative, effective communicators with strong interpersonal skills.

• Process tasks in Workday (purchase orders, reconcile purchasing card transactions, invoices, timesheets, stipends, etc.).
• Collect travel and other reimbursement documentation for input into Workday.
• Track and maintain records for trainings and events.
• Communicate with and provide guidance for student workers for office tasks.
• Support purchasing, shipping, and receiving efforts.
• Identify, arrange, and track catering for events.
• Maintain accurate records for program supply inventory and assist with annual asset inventory.
• Provide administrative support as needed to the Nevada Robotics faculty and staff.

• High school diploma or equivalent and two years of related experience.
• Intermediate computer skills with MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and Google Suite.
• Ability to maintain confidential and sensitive information and documentation.
• Excellent organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills.
• Ability to prioritize assignments and commit to meeting deadlines.
• Detail‑oriented with a strong degree of accuracy and reliability as well as sound judgment.
• Ability to work both as a team player and independently.
• Ability to establish effective working relationships with fellow employees, departments, and other campus personnel.

• Experience working in education, research, non‑profit, or university settings.
• Experience with Workday (financial and personnel management system).

• Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check.

This position may require the ability to perform physical tasks, such as moving or lifting objects up to 60 lb., and occasional stooping, bending, and kneeling. Sitting and staring at a computer screen for long periods of time.

This is a temporary (up to 1 year) position, Grade 31. Minimum salary is $53,820.85, with final salary commensurate with 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 19.25% retirement match, 10 hours of annual leave and 10 hours of sick leave accrued per month, 12 paid holidays, and educational benefits.

Annual leave cannot be used until the six‑month probationary period ends. This position is not eligible for relocation assistance. There is no state income tax or social security deduction.

100 %

• Cover letter detailing your experience, career goals, and interest in the position.
• Resume.
• Contact information for three professional/work‑related references.

This posting is open until filled.

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 to navigate to the internal job posting site. Locate this specific posting by typing the job requisition number, “R0150594.”

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.