Position Title: Program Specialist,Sr

Employee Classification: Program Specialist,Sr

College/Division: Engineering College

Department: 360750-KLIPSCH SCH OF ELECT AND COMPUTER E

Internal or External Search: External - Open to all applicants

Location: Las Cruces

Offsite Location (if applicable):

Target Hourly/Salary Rate:  Entry $48,332.54; Commensurate with Experience

Appointment Full-time Equivalency:  1.0

Exempt or Non-Exempt:  Exempt

Summary:  Join our team and play a vital role in supporting cutting-edge research! We are seeking a highly organized and detail-oriented Program Specialist, Sr to assist the Principal Investigator (PI) in managing NSF- and DOE-funded projects. This position will oversee project coordination, financial administration, compliance, and team support to ensure the successful and timely completion of these important research initiatives.

Classification Summary:
Works on plans and implements a set of program initiatives for a group of projects or clients for operational entity of the University. Participates in the generation of program resources and in the design and development of program operating goals, objectives, and protocols and related tasks. Serves as primary point of both internal and external representation and liaison with respect to program implementation and compliance and operational matters. Provides technical/professional and programmatic support to client constituencies.

Classification Standard Duties:
Programs are usually self-funded and/or grant-funded from a major funding source or series of funding sources. Plans and coordinates the development, implementation, and execution of a set of multiple sub-programs, special projects, and other initiatives designed to achieve the overall mission, goals, and objectives of the program. Oversees and administers all facets of the day-to-day operations of the various programs and activities related to the positions specific disciplines. Serves as primary liaison with internal and external constituencies on all matters relating to program activities; represents the University with respect to program activities on a local, regional, and/or national basis. May supervise staff and students to include: work allocation, training,promotion and enforcement of internal procedures and controls and problem resolution;evaluates performance and makes recommendations for personnel actions;motivates employees to achieve peak productivity and performance. Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.

Required Education, Experience, Certification/License, Equivalency
Required Education:Bachelor's degree in a related field.; Required Experience:Three (3) years of professional experience related to the standard duties as outlined.; Equivalency:None; Required Certification/License:

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
KNOWLEDGE:Demonstrated professional knowledge and operational expertise within designated area of program focus.; SKILLS:Program planning, development, implementation, and leadership skills. Skill in examining and evaluating operations and developing and/or re-engineering operating strategies, systems, and procedures. Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to effectively communicate with a wide range of individuals and constituencies in a diverse community.; ABILITIES:Ability to determine informational needs, to collect and analyze information, and to devise and develop statistical analyses and reports. Ability to develop and deliver both oral and written presentations. Ability to use independent judgment and to manage and impart information to a range of clientele and/or media sources. Ability to make administrative/procedural decisions and judgments. Ability to develop and implement funding strategies and programs.

Job Duties and Responsibilities
The Program Specialist,Sr will support the Principal Investigator (PI) in managing the execution and administration of an NSF-funded and a DOE-funded project. This role focuses on project coordination, financial oversight, compliance, and team support to ensure timely and efficient project delivery.

Project Coordination & Execution
• Track project timelines, milestones, and deliverables to ensure compliance with NSF and DOE requirements.
• Facilitate communication between the PI, project team, and administrative units.
• Organize and document project meetings, track action items, and support task execution.
Financial & Budget Management
• Monitor project expenditures and assist in budget tracking to ensure compliance with funding guidelines.
• Support the PI in preparing financial reports, budget modifications, and expense justifications.
• Coordinate with finance staff to ensure timely processing of purchases and reimbursements.

Compliance & Reporting
• Maintain project documentation and ensure adherence to university and federal funding regulations.
• Assist in preparing progress reports and compliance documentation for funding agencies.
• Ensure timely submission of required deliverables.

Project Team Coordination
• Assign and track project tasks, ensuring team members meet deadlines.
• Assist with onboarding and coordination of personnel involved in project activities.
• Support training on project-specific procedures and compliance requirements.

General Administrative Support
• Manage project logistics, scheduling, and operational workflows.
• Support the PI with administrative tasks related to project implementation.
• Perform other project-related duties as needed to ensure successful execution.

Performs other related duties as assigned.

Preferred Qualifications

Special Requirements of the Position

Department Contact:  Di Shi, (575) 646-3704, dshi@nmsu.edu

Contingent Upon Funding: Contingent upon external funding

Bargaining Unit Eligibility: This is NOT a bargaining unit position with American Federation of State, County & Municipal Employees (AFSCME).

Standard Work Schedule: Standard (M-F, 8-5)

If Not a Standard Work Schedule: 

Working Conditions and Physical Effort

Environment: Work is normally performed in a typical interior/office work environment.

Physical Effort: No or very limited physical effort required.

Lifting Requirements: Requires handling of average-weight objects up to 10 pounds or some standing or walking.

Risk: No or very limited exposure to physical risk.