Program Specialist I

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 Division of Hydrologic Sciences (DHS) is seeking a dedicated, full-time Program Specialist I to handle a variety of financial and administrative duties. Under direct supervision, the Program Specialist I will perform various administrative activities with independent judgment and initiative. Responsibilities will include processing p-cards, expense reports, supplier invoice requests, coordinating division meetings and assisting the other Program Specialists, Business Manager, Division Director, and faculty.

The Program Specialist I will assist the Business Manager, Division Director, and faculty, as needed, with various tasks such as distributing mail, compiling documents for proposals, and aid with word processing. This position is located in Reno, NV.

Key Job Duties:

• Enter expense reports, purchasing card transactions, and supplier invoice requests into Workday

• Work with faculty to collect and compile detailed financial information, faculty approval, and account charging details

• Collect information monthly for the motor pool invoice and send information to the Business Managers for review

• Schedule and set up for DHS North meetings

• Gather and display quarterly division information in the DHS bulletin

• Maintain adequate levels of supplies for office staff, including ordering specific items requested by faculty, in a timely and efficient manner

Required Qualifications:

• High School Diploma or equivalent

• Minimum of 1 year of relevant experience

• Basic skills with Microsoft Office Suite and Publisher

Preferred Qualifications:

• Associate’s degree in a related field

• Intermediate skills in Microsoft Office Suite

• Basic experience with Workday

• Basic experience with ARGIS (Academic Research & Grants Information System)

• Experience working in an office environment

Physical Requirements: This position requires the ability to sit for long periods of time and lift, push, and or pull objects weighing up to 20 lbs.

Compensation Grade/Benefits

This is a DRI Technologist position, Grade 29, with a minimum starting annual salary of $49,722.  Starting salary is commensurate with experience and education and alignment with similar public academic-research institutions.

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, and 12 paid holidays Additionally, there is no state income tax or 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 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 wide-ranging 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.

Exempt

No

Full-Time Equivalent 

100.0%

Required Attachment(s)

Please upload the following documents in the specified section:

1. Cover letter detailing how your experience and qualifications prepare you for this job

2. Current resume

3. Contact information for three professional references /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 and requirements are encouraged to apply immediately and provide all required attachments to receive full consideration. 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, “R0147459” 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 email jobs@dri.edu or call the recruiting office at 775-673-7431.

Posting Close Date

05/16/2025

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.