Research Operations Assistant Jobs in Idaho (NOW HIRING)

Job Summary/Basic Function:

The College of Engineering is seeking a Facility Project Coordinator to join our team. Reporting to the Facilities Director of COEN, this position serves as the primary coordinator for small- to medium-scale facilities projects across the College of Engineering, supporting a variety of facility improvement, maintenance, and laboratory support initiatives. Responsibilities include planning work, coordinating contractors and vendors, and monitoring project plans, schedules, work hours, budgets, and expenditures to ensure deadlines are met in a timely manner. The role also involves organizing and participating in stakeholder meetings, managing project resources, and ensuring projects are completed safely, efficiently, and with minimal disruption to college operations. Additionally, this position provides technical support for facility maintenance, laboratory equipment, and specialized fabrication as needed.

Level Scope:

Entry-level professional with limited or no prior experience to contribute on a project or work team. Incumbent learns to use professional concepts to resolve problems of limited scope and complexity under close supervision while achieving day-to-day objectives. Works on developmental assignments that are initially routine in nature, requiring limited judgment and decision making. This level is typically focused on self development. Requires theoretical knowledge through specific education and training.

Essential Functions:

85% of the Time, the Position must:

Facilities Project Coordination
Assist in coordinating small- to medium-scale facility improvement, renovation, maintenance, and laboratory support projects from planning through completion.
Support the development of project scopes, schedules, timelines, and sequencing to minimize disruption to instructional, research, and administrative activities.
Help maintain and monitor project plans, schedules, work hours, budgets, and expenditures.
Communicate with contractors, vendors, Facilities Operations, and other campus partners to support safe, efficient project completion according to specifications.
Organize and participate in stakeholder meetings; document decisions and follow up on action items.
Monitor project progress, flag issues to supervisors, and help implement solutions to keep projects on schedule.
Help ensure projects adhere to established frameworks and that documentation is properly maintained.
Support tracking of project budgets and expenditures, and assist with purchasing of materials and equipment.
Help evaluate facility needs and provide input on potential improvements.

Facility Maintenance and Operations
Assist with general building maintenance and repair activities, including basic plumbing, electrical, mechanical, and HVAC support, under guidance from experienced staff.
Help assess maintenance requests and learn to determine when specialized trade expertise is required.
Coordinate service calls and contractor work for building systems.
Assist with installing, modifying, and relocating laboratory equipment and furnishings.
Help develop and maintain technical documentation, such as standard operating procedures and maintenance records.
Help monitor maintenance costs and support compliance with safety standards, codes, and university policies.
Help maintain safe and organized workspaces, equipment, and shop operations.

Administrative and Financial Coordination
Assist with purchasing materials, equipment, and supplies within delegated authority.
Support budget tracking related to equipment and material purchases.
Reconcile purchasing card transactions and maintain purchasing documentation.
Maintain project documentation, equipment records, and maintenance files.
Respond to routine email correspondence and technical inquiries; help prepare materials for meetings as needed.

15% of the Time, the Position must:
College Support and Special Projects
Support special projects as assigned by the Director of Facilities or college leadership.
Assist with planning and coordination of larger renovation or infrastructure improvement projects.
Help coordinate vendors and contractors for specialized maintenance and construction activities.
Support college events requiring facility setup or technical assistance.
Participate on committees or workgroups as assigned.
Perform other duties as assigned

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:

Basic knowledge of engineering principles as applied to facilities, laboratories, and building systems (developed through education or on-the-job training).
General understanding of facility maintenance practices and construction methods.
Basic awareness of how electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and other building trades coordinate on a project.
Foundational understanding of project coordination concepts, such as scheduling and resource tracking.
Ability to read and interpret basic engineering drawings, blueprints, and specifications, with training and mentorship provided.
Ability to assist in coordinating multiple tasks or projects under supervision.
Ability to support the development and monitoring of project schedules.
Ability to identify basic maintenance issues and escalate them to appropriate staff or contractors.
Ability to communicate effectively and professionally with faculty, staff, contractors, vendors, and campus partners.
Willingness to learn cross-trade coordination and communication.
Good organizational and problem-solving skills, with attention to detail.
Ability to follow directions, exercise sound judgment, and work with increasing independence as experience is gained.
Ability to manage time effectively and meet deadlines.
Commitment to maintaining safe work practices and regulatory compliance.

Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor's Degree or equivalent relevant professional experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

Basic computer proficiency, including the ability to use email, create and edit documents, and manage electronic files and attachments.
Basic understanding of engineering drawings, blueprints, or technical specifications, gained through coursework, training, or prior exposure; familiarity with electrical, plumbing, HVAC, hydraulic, or mechanical systems is a plus.
General familiarity with construction trades and facilities-related work (e.g., renovation, maintenance, or fabrication), gained through education, training, or informal exposure; coursework or interest in welding is a plus.
Ability to assist with coordinating tasks involving contractors, vendors, or trades under supervision. Salary and Benefits: Required Application Materials:

To be considered for this position, please submit the following material:
Cover letter indicating your interest and qualifications for the position
Resume with employment history (including dates of employment)
Three professional references with contact information.

About Us:

Nestled along the Boise River and steps from the state capitol, Boise State University fosters a vibrant and welcoming academic environment that fuels student and employee success. We're a trailblazing institution, nationally recognized for our innovative spirit and commitment to positive impact on Idaho and beyond.

Boise State is proud to be recognized by Forbes as the only Idaho employer listed in the top 100 of all national midsize and large employers. We're building a thriving community of faculty and staff whose unique skills, experiences, and perspectives come together to create a rich and rewarding academic experience. Applications from all backgrounds are welcomed.

Learn more about Boise State and living in Idaho's Treasure Valley at https://www.boisestate.edu/about/