eDNA Program Manager

Job Description

The School of Marine and Environmental Affairs (SMEA) has an outstanding opportunity for an eDNA Program Manager to join their team.

About this Opportunity 

The program manager will be a key team member of the eDNA Collaborative managing its day-to-day administration and operations with a high degree of autonomy. The position includes elements of project management, institutional design, communication, and strategy and will be vital to the Collaborative’s impact on the ongoing evolution of eDNA research.  

This is an on-campus, in-person position, and the successful candidate will work in Seattle at the University of Washington.  

Key Responsibilities 

Project Management and Strategic Planning (30%): 

·       Being a member of the core eDNA Collaborative team and understanding the research of team members and visiting scientists in the Collaborative in sufficient detail to communicate about that work. 

·       Managing logistics and support for Collaborative team members and visiting scientists, before, during, and after UW site visits. 

·       Managing the administration of the microgrant program, including being a contact for sub-awardees (i.e., grantees) supported by program funds for details regarding scope of work, timelines, and administrative processes. 

·       Helping to shape a culture of teamwork, creativity, and transparency. 

Budget, Fiscal Management and Operations (40%): 

·       Tracking the budgets for the eDNA Collaborative’s research projects and ensuring all spending follows the rules and guidelines of the UW and program funders.  

·       Managing the portfolio of grants and works to find efficiencies across projects.  

·       Preparing budget reports for the eDNA Collaborative team that will aid in the program’s decision-making and direction. 

·       Being the point-person for fiscal and administrative compliance, keeping up to date on policies and procedures at the UW and for sponsors. 

·       Partnering with the PI and SMEA Administrators on human-resource related actions for the Collaborative. 

·       Partnering with SMEA Administrators on visa related actions for international visitors.  

·       Provide administrative support to eDNA Collaborative scientists, staff, students, and visiting researchers by assisting with purchasing, travel arrangements, reimbursements, and other University of Washington financial and procurement processes. Help navigate institutional policies and procedures to ensure transactions are completed accurately, efficiently, and in compliance with university and grant requirements. 

Communication and Reporting (30%):  

·       Coordinating eDNA Collaborative meetings, including internal team meetings, meetings with funders, and meetings with advisory board members on a regular schedule 

·       Providing agendas before the meetings and taking and distributing minutes. 

·       Maintaining the team’s shared folders, calendar, and other information management tools.  

·       Overseeing the Collaborative’s email account.  

·       Aiding in the design and distribution of Collaborative communications via website, blog, newsletter, and/or social media. 

·       Developing other reports as necessary, for example annual reports of milestones and impacts, reports to funders, etc.  

·       Serve as a welcoming first point of contact for new employees, coordinating onboarding activities, introducing team members to organizational processes and resources, and helping create a positive and supportive transition into the eDNA Collaborative community. 

Required Qualifications 

To be considered for this opportunity your application must demonstrate you meet both the minimum qualifications and additional qualifications listed below. Equivalent education and/or experience may substitute for minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license, certification, and/or registration. 

Minimum Qualifications 

·       Bachelor’s degree in relevant field and a minimum of 2 years of experience in project management, program management or administrative support, or equivalent combination of education and experience 

Applicants who do not meet these qualifications WILL NOT be forwarded to the Hiring Manager.

Additional Qualifications

·       Fluency with computer-based work including using common office software including Excel, Word, and similar  

·       Strong critical-thinking, problem-solving, organizational, and prioritization skills resulting in the ability to multitask efficiently on parallel efforts  

·       Excellent interpersonal skills. Ability to effectively build relationships, promote a collaborative team environment, and influence others 

·       Demonstrated cultural competence and communication skills for effectively working with diverse stakeholders 

·       Willingness and ability to develop new skills quickly in the context of a developing organization 

·       Project management skills and experience with a proven track record of meeting milestones and timelines 

·       Budget monitoring and management experience with a proven track record of managing budgets to match project scope 

·       Self-motivated, resourceful with strong organizational skills and able to multi-task and work collaboratively 

Preferred Qualifications 

·       Master’s degree

·       Knowledge or experience in molecular biology, environmental management, or similar life-science fields 

·       Experience with Workday, MyFD, SAGE, or other University of Washington administrative programs  

·       Knowledge of scientific practices and culture 

·       Experience in website maintenance, social media, and other digital communication media 

About the Team 

The eDNA Collaborative at the University of Washington’s School of Marine and Environmental Affairs (SMEA) is an interdisciplinary initiative that advances environmental DNA (eDNA) science through research, community building, and support for external investigators. 

Compensation, Benefits and Position Details

Pay Range Minimum:

Pay Range Maximum:

Other Compensation:

Benefits:

Shift:

Temporary or Regular?

FTE (Full-Time Equivalent):

Union/Bargaining Unit:

About the UW 

Working at the University of Washington provides a unique opportunity to change lives – on our campuses, in our state and around the world.  

UW employees bring their boundless energy, creative problem-solving skills and dedication to building stronger minds and a healthier world. In return, they enjoy outstanding benefits, opportunities for professional growth and the chance to work in an environment known for its diversity, intellectual excitement, artistic pursuits and natural beauty. 

Our Commitment 

The University of Washington is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful and welcoming community for all. As an equal opportunity employer, the University considers applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, pregnancy, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, disability, or veteran status consistent with UW Executive Order No. 81.

To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact the Disability Services Office at 206-543-6450 or dso@uw.edu. 

Applicants considered for this position will be required to disclose if they are the subject of any substantiated findings or current investigations related to sexual misconduct at their current employment and past employment. Disclosure is required under Washington state law.