Scientific Program Coordinator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

The Program Coordinator (70 %-time position) supports the operational, financial, and administrative activities of the DSRI miniSim program. This position works with accounting and purchasing workflow, invoices customers for miniSim support fees, manages key databases, coordinates shipping logistics, and provides customer service. The role ensures accurate documentation, smooth operational execution, and reliable communication between DSRI staff, customers, vendors, and internal university offices. 

The Program Coordinator will be a 70% time position. 

This position is not eligible for University sponsorship for employment authorization.

This position may be eligible for hybrid work within Iowa after onboarding is complete and will require a work arrangement form to be completed upon the start of your employment. Per policy, work arrangements will be reviewed annually and must comply with the remote work program and related policies and employee travel policy when working at a remote location.

Key Responsibilities:

• Administers the invoicing process for miniSim support, using QuickBooks Pro accounting software and track payments in University Financial Reporting System (ACH, check).
• Monitor accounts and expenditures, prepare quarterly income and expense reports. 
• Serve as the primary support contact for miniSim customers; manage and track support requests to resolution. 
• Assists with editing project documentation, reports or articles for distribution to sponsors, potential sponsors or professional community. 
• Develops or specifies new business tools as the need arises. Examples may include workflow automation, application of AI, inventory management, and online tools for internal or customer use.
• Assist as needed in getting simulators ready for shipment, may include testing scenarios and documenting results. 
• Contribute to operational plans for the miniSim Program. This may include supporting program budget planning.
• Tracks action items and milestones for miniSim project 'builds', including parts purchases, software installs, and system commissioning.  
• Assist with conducting and overseeing the testing and evaluation of installations and miniSim systems during and after completion.
• Adherence to accepted accounting practices.
• Participate in weekly miniSim team meetings to review customer service cases and project deliverables.

• Participate in weekly meetings with supervisor to review current action items and next steps.  

To obtain the full job description including key areas of responsibility, technical competencies, and desirable qualifications, please contact Alex-Schutman@uiowa.edu

About the College of Engineering

The College of Engineering at the University of Iowa is driven by talented faculty, staff, and students who are dedicated to producing knowledge that addresses grand challenges in advanced technologies, health sciences, sustainability, energy, and the environment. We pride ourselves on producing ethical, globally aware engineers whose work makes the world safer and more efficient. As a center of innovation and discovery, the College of Engineering is committed to improving the quality of life for our Iowa community, as well as for people across the United States and around the world.

We uphold the values of respect, community, and collaboration in all our endeavors, fostering a welcoming and respectful environment where members are valued and supported. Joining our team means becoming part of a supportive environment that values work-life balance and personal well-being. The University of Iowa offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health and wellness resources, dual career support, and opportunities for professional development. Learn more about working at the University of Iowa: Build A Career/Build a Life.

Education Required:

• Bachelor's degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience that is directly related to the duties of the position. 

Required Qualifications:

• Minimum of 1 year working experience with Microsoft software (Teams, Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook), and Adobe Acrobat (or similar applications).  
• Willingness to work outside of regular business hours.  
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English are required.
• Experience working directly with customers via phone, email, and remotely in a professional manner is required.
• Ability to move up to 25 lbs is required.
• Experience performing administrative, operational, and financial support functions.

• Valid driver's license and ability to meet UI Fleet Safety Standards.

Desired Qualifications:

• Experience using accounting software:  QuickBooks, Xero, Sage, etc.
• Familiarity with university procurement processes or comparable purchasing systems.
• Experience with Project Management concepts and software tools.
• Experience creating or maintaining web page content (e.g. MediaWiki, Visual Studio Code, etc). Experience photo editing/resizing for publication.
• Ability to use basic hand tools and coordinate the packaging of simulators in boxes and crates.
• Experience maintaining documentation systems or technical manuals.
• Experience in an engineering, software development, research, or technical operations environment.

Application Details

In order to be considered for an interview, applicants must upload:

• Resume
• Cover Letter

Job openings are posted for a minimum of 14 calendar days. This job may be removed from posting and filled any time after the minimum posting period has ended. Successful candidates will be required to self-disclose any conviction history and will be subject to a criminal background check and credential/education verification. 5 professional references will be requested at a later step in the recruitment process. 

For questions, contact Alex Schutman at Alex-Schutman@uiowa.edu

Benefits Highlights

• Regular salaried position. Pay level 4A. Located in Iowa City, Iowa.
• Fringe benefit package including paid vacation; sick leave; health, dental, life and disability insurance options; and generous employer contributions into retirement plans.
• For more information about Why Iowa? Click here.

About Iowa

Joining the University of Iowa means becoming a vital part of the Hawkeye community, where your work directly impacts education, research, and student success. Enjoy exceptional health coverage, university-paid life insurance, robust retirement plans, and generous leave policies. Benefit from 24/7 support services, well-being resources, and access to UI Health Care specialists. Grow professionally with advanced training, leadership development, and tuition assistance. Iowa City offers a great quality of life with world-class performances at Hancher Auditorium, Big Ten athletics, top-ranked public schools, and outdoor recreation. Join us in making a difference at a leading Big Ten university and premier public research institution.