Program Specialist III

Company: Desert Research Institute
Location: Reno
Posted on: April 2, 2026

Job Description:

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 recruit@dri.edu . Job Description The Desert Research Institute (DRI) is seeking an organized and dedicated individual to fill a full-time Program Specialist III position. This role will provide administrative support for the Western Regional Climate Center (WRCC) and Climate Center Group (CCG) staff and faculty. This role will enable you to use your organizational, reporting, coordinating, and relationship building skills. This position is located in Reno, NV. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to: Communicate and prioritize phone and email messages Maintain current schedules and deadlines Make travel arrangements for faculty and staff Support the Principal Investigator (PI) on travel claims to ensure they are entered for reimbursement in a timely manner Support WRCC staff by gathering report information and generating reports Maintain and prepare weekly, monthly, quarterly, and annual reports Compile information prepared by staff and send to WRCC Director for completion Assist hourly employees with timesheet submission and deadlines Print posters for conferences as needed Point of contact for the group if problems arise Monitor data usage of weather station cell phones and send various updates regarding new additions and outages Troubleshoot any issues with station outages Required Qualifications High school diploma or equivalent AND four years of full-time related experience OR an Associate’s degree with 2 years of related experience. Intermediate computer skills with Microsoft Excel and Teams. Advanced computer skills with Microsoft Word. Experience preparing and compiling reports in Microsoft Excel. 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. US Citizenship per funding requirement Preferred Qualifications Knowledge and familiarity with financial tracking. Experience working in a research, non-profit, or university setting. Data entry experience. Experience with Workday (financial and personnel management system). Physical Requirements This position may require the ability to perform physical tasks, such as moving or lifting objects up to 10 lbs., and occasional stooping, bending, and kneeling. Sitting and staring at a computer screen for long periods of time. Conditions of Employment This position is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check 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 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. Compensation Grade/Benefits This is a DRI Technologist position, with a minimum salary of $58,257.42 for a Grade 33. 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 19.25% 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. No Full-Time Equivalent 100.0% Required Attachment(s) Please upload the following documents in the specified section: 1. A cover letter detailing your experience and career goals 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, “R0150918” 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.

Keywords: Desert Research Institute, Rocklin , Program Specialist III, Administration, Clerical , Reno, California