Overview

Job Location:
DRI – Reno, NV

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 a dedicated individual to fill a full-time Director of Post-Award Operations position that leads and manages the post-award financial administration of grants and contracts at the Desert Research Institute under the direction of the Controller.  As a member of the Financial Services Office (FSO) leadership team, this position provides expert guidance and collaborates on accounting- and financial compliance-related aspects of post-award grants and contracts administration.  This position establishes and implements the grants and contracts team’s objectives, reporting, policies and procedures and coordinates contacts with federal, state, and local governments, sponsors, and national organizations.  Additionally, this position is responsible for directing and managing post-award activities for the Grants and Contracts team within FSO, including day-to-day administrative and financial functions and regulatory compliance and provides support, assistance, and education to stakeholders regarding post-award activities.  This position is located in Reno, NV with an option for a hybrid working schedule (minimum of two days per week in the office). 

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with five years of progressively related financial accounting or post-award accounting experience;
  • Three years of demonstrated leadership experience
  • Proficiency and intermediate to advanced use of a variety of computer applications (MS Office Suite, Windows) and fund accounting and reporting systems ;
  • Knowledge of and ability to interpret and apply Federal regulations, including Code of Federal Regulations, OMB Uniform Guidance Title 2: Grants and Agreements, Federal Acquisition Regulations, sponsoring agency regulations and guidelines
  • Working knowledge of grants and contracts accounting principles, fund accounting, grant and contract audit procedures and indirect cost rate negotiation process
  • Demonstrated ability to prioritize and complete multiple tasks within time constraints
  • Skilled in quantitative and qualitative data analysis and reporting using spreadsheet and database applications
  • Commitment to providing exceptional customer service and ability to work effectively with multiple constituencies
  • Demonstrated ability to maintain confidential information, communicates effectively both orally and in writing
  • Strong analytical, organizational, and problem resolution skills.
  • Demonstrated leadership in the field of grants and contracts and commitment to professional development of staff
  • Ability to supervise, lead, and manage staff

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS (optional)

Greater consideration will be given to those who possess one or more of the following skills:

  • Working knowledge of Workday financial management software or similar software
  • Experience with grants and contracts in a university or non-profit entity.
  • Five years of demonstrated leadership experience
  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA) Certified Financial Research Administrator or Certified Research Administrator (CRA)

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

This position is considered sedentary but may occasionally require performing light physical tasks such as exerting up to 10lbs of force, lifting or carrying objects of 10 lbs., or otherwise move objects. Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time but may involve waking or standing for brief periods of time.

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check.

COMPENSATION/BENEFITS

The annual starting salary is between $100,000 and $120,000, depending on education and experience. DRI offers a benefits package that includes health, dental, vision, life, and long-term disability insurance; including 17.5% retirement match, 24 annual leave days, beginning balance of 30 sick leave days, 12 paid holidays, educational benefits, and the choice of two health insurance plans that can be supplemented with flexible spending accounts or health savings accounts. Additionally, there is no state income tax and no social security deduction. 

ORGANIZATIONAL SUMMARY

DRI is a recognized world leader in basic and applied environmental research. Committed to scientific excellence and integrity, DRI faculty, students/postdocs 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 effect on humans. DRI’s cutting-edge 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.

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 at DRI's Diversity and Inclusion Webpage.

Exempt

Yes

Full-Time Equivalent 

100.0%

Required Attachment(s)

Please upload the following documents in the specified section of the job posting on DRI’s careers page:

  • A cover letter detailing how your experience and professional qualifications prepare you to succeed in this role at DRI
  • A current resume/curriculum vita
  • Contact information for three professional references who will be contacted at the appropriate phase of the recruitment process based on applicant permission

Qualified individuals 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, “R0145237” in the search box.

For more detailed information about DRI and DRI faculty, research projects, and publications, please visit us at www.dri.edu. For questions regarding this position or assistance with your application, please email jobs@dri.edu or 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.