Operations Specialist (PROJECT POLICY ANL 1 RP)

Under the direction of the Director of the Institute for Pandemic Insights (IPI), the Operations Specialist will provide high-level operational and administrative support to ensure the effective and smooth operation of the NSF Center for Pandemic Insights (CPI). This position supports the Center Director, Program Manager, research personnel, and affiliated teams by coordinating schedules, communications, logistics, and documentation. The ideal candidate will possess strong organizational skills, keen attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple priorities with professionalism, discretion, and clear communication in a fast-paced research environment. The Operations Specialist will be an integral member of a dynamic, interdisciplinary team advancing scientific research focused on global health and emerging infectious diseases. #CA-AR

Apply By Date 3/11/26 at 11:59pm

Minimum Qualifications - For full consideration, applicants are encouraged to upload license and/or certification if required of the position

• Required to hold a valid California driver's license, have a driving record that is in accordance with local policies/procedures, and/or enroll in the California Employer Pull Notice Program
• BA/BS or equivalent experience with practical implementation of such programs.
• Experience in communications and coordination for transdisciplinary field-based research and experience coordinating field operations and logistics.
• Strong written and oral communication skills
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to foster collaboration and coordination among diverse stakeholders.
• Advanced analytical thinking and strategic planning skills and abilities.
• Skills and knowledge writing scientific summaries and technical reports.
• Proficient with business software and applications, including Microsoft Office Suite (e.g., Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams) and Zoom.

Preferred Qualifications

• Demonstrated ability to coordinate complex projects involving multidisciplinary teams.
• Familiarity with compliance, risk management, and federal, state, and local regulatory requirements related to public health, wildlife surveillance, and research ethics.
• Advanced skills in scientific writing and reporting for grants, permits, regulatory agencies, and public engagement and outreach materials.
• Academic or practical background in disease surveillance, biological sciences, public health, or related field.

Key Responsibilities

• 50% - Research Coordination and Support
• 40% - Programmatic Support for Leadership
• 10% - Special Projects / Other

Department Overview

The Operations Specialist for this NSF Center will be part of the world-renowned UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine. The Institute for Pandemic Insights is an applied sciences transdisciplinary team science hub advancing epidemic and pandemic preparedness and prevention by developing innovative technology and cutting-edge research to address major challenges in the characterization of emerging infectious diseases in the pre-emergence phase. Our work is designed to protect human and animal health, and we conduct investigations that will inform evidence-based decisions for biodiverse and resilient ecosystems. The Institute for Pandemic Insights is affiliated and co-located with the One Health Institute, a large enterprise consisting of more than 50 faculty, staff, and students working globally across dozens of centers, programs, and projects.

POSITION INFORMATION

• Salary or Pay Range: $25.57 - $44.06
• Salary Frequency: Biweekly
• Salary Grade: STEPS
• UC Job Title: PROJECT POLICY ANL 1 RP
• UC Job Code: 005255
• Number of Positions: 1
• Appointment Type: Staff: Career
• Percentage of Time: 100%
• Shift (Work Schedule): Mon-Fri 8am-5pm
• Location: Davis
• Union Representation: RP - Research and Public Service Professionals
• Benefits Eligible: Y
• This position is hybrid (mix of on-site and remote work)

Benefits

Outstanding benefits and perks are among the many rewards of working for the University of California. UC Davis offers a full range of benefits, resources and programs to help you bring your best self to work, as well as to help you and your family achieve your health, wellness, financial and career goals. Learn more about the benefits below and eligibility rules by visiting either our handy Benefits Summary for UC Davis Health Employees or Benefits Summary for UC Davis Employees and our Benefits Page.

If you are represented by a union, benefits are negotiated between the University of California (UC) and your union and finalized in a contract. Read your bargaining unit's employment contract, stay abreast of current negotiations and learn about collective bargaining at UC: https://ucnet.universityofcalifornia.edu/labor/bargaining-units/index.html

• High quality and low-cost medical plans to choose from to fit your family's needs
• UC pays for Dental and Vision insurance premiums for you and your family
• Extensive leave benefits including Pregnancy and Parental Leave, Family & Medical Leave
• Paid Holidays annually as stipulated in the UC Davis Health Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreement
• Paid Time Off/Vacation/Sick Time as stipulated in the UC Davis Health Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreement
• Continuing Education (CE) allowance and Education Reimbursement Program as stipulated in the UC Davis Health Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreement
• Access to free professional development courses and learning opportunities for personal and professional growth
• WorkLife and Wellness programs and resources
• On-site Employee Assistance Program including access to free mental health services
• Supplemental insurance offered including additional life, short/long term disability, pet insurance and legal coverage
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSFL) Qualified Employer & Student Loan Repayment Assistance Program for qualified roles
• Retirement benefit options for eligible roles including Pension and other Retirement Saving Plans. More information on our retirement benefits can be found here

Physical Demands

• Standing - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Walking - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Sitting - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
• Lifting/Carrying 0-25 Lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Lifting/Carrying 26-50 lbs - Never 0 Hours
• Lifting/Carrying over 50 lbs - Never 0 Hours
• Pushing/Pulling 0-25 Lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Pushing/Pulling 26-50 lbs - Never 0 Hours
• Pushing/Pulling over 50 lbs - Never 0 Hours
• Bending/Stooping - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Squatting/Kneeling - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Twisting - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Climbing (e.g., stairs or ladders) - Never 0 Hours
• Reaching overhead - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Keyboard use/repetitive motion - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours

Environmental Demands

• Chemicals, dust, gases, or fumes - Never 0 Hours
• Loud noise levels - Never 0 Hours
• Marked changes in humidity or temperature - Never 0 Hours
• Microwave/Radiation - Never 0 Hours
• Operating motor vehicles and/or equipment - Never 0 Hours
• Extreme Temperatures - Never 0 Hours
• Uneven Surfaces or Elevations - Never 0 Hours

Mental Demands

• Sustained attention and concentration - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
• Complex problem solving/reasoning - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Ability to organize & prioritize - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
• Communication skills - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
• Numerical skills - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Constant Interaction - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
• Customer/Patient Contact - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
• Multiple Concurrent Tasks - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours

Work Environment

UC Davis is a smoke and tobacco free campus effective January 1, 2014. Smoking, the use of smokeless tobacco products, and the use of unregulated nicotine products (e-cigarettes) will be strictly prohibited on any UC Davis owned or leased property, indoors and outdoors, including parking lots and residential space.

Work in a shared office environment subject to others talking and working. This position requires on-site work at least 3 days per week, and flexibility in on-site work scheduling contingent on project schedules and research activities.

Special Requirements - Please contact your recruiter with questions regarding which activities apply by position

Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts a conditional offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; received notice of any allegations or are currently the subject of any administrative or disciplinary proceedings involving misconduct; have left a position after receiving notice of allegations or while under investigation in an administrative or disciplinary proceeding involving misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of misconduct with a previous employer.

A Culture of Opportunity and Belonging

At UC Davis, we're committed to solving life's most urgent challenges and building a healthier, more resilient world. We believe in growing through every challenge, continually striving to improve, and welcoming new perspectives that strengthen our community. We recognize that a vibrant and innovative organization values both individual strengths and shared purpose. The best ideas often emerge when people with different experiences come together.

As you consider joining UC Davis, we invite you to explore our Principles of Community, our Clinical Strategic Plan and strategic vision for research and education. We believe you belong here. The University of California, Davis is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age or protected veteran status.

To view the University of California's Anti-Discrimination Policy, please visit: https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/1001004/Anti-Discrimination

Because we want you to feel seen and valued, our recruitment process at UC Davis supports openness and authenticity. Research shows that some individuals hesitate to apply unless they meet every qualification. You may be an excellent fit for this role-or the next one. We encourage you to apply even if your experience doesn't match every listed requirement. #YouBelongHere

To learn more about our background check program, please visit: https://hr.ucdavis.edu/departments/recruitment/ucd/selection/background-checks