Program Specialist II

Iowa State University•Ames, IA

About The Position

The Graduate College at Iowa State University seeks applicants for a Program Specialist II working with the Ronald E. McNair Postbaccalaureate Achievement Program, a federally-funded program which supports first-generation, low-income students as they prepare for entry to graduate school and the attainment of an advanced degree. As a Program Specialist, you will be a key member of the McNair team with responsibility for the research component of the program, which includes developing content and teaching the two first-year research courses (U ST 3010 and 3020) on scientific research methods; providing guidance to Scholars as they complete a required faculty-mentored research project; and preparing participants for presentation of their work. The position will support program scholarship by leading, conceptualizing, and conducting research activities that strengthen program effectiveness and contribute to students’ preparedness and motivation to pursue graduate degrees. The role will also assist the program director in assessing and evaluating program data for reporting to stakeholders and will oversee the McNair mentoring component involving faculty and graduate student mentors. This role offers a rare opportunity to build lasting, meaningful relationships with students across every college at Iowa State. The McNair Program is a close-knit community where staff and Scholars work closely and stay connected long after graduation. You will support students as they apply to a wide range of graduate programs, often 10 or more, and celebrate with them as they enter top institutions across the country. Many alumni return to share updates about their graduate school journeys and early careers, reflecting the strong sense of support and impact the program creates. For someone who values long-term student development and the chance to make a tangible difference in individual academic trajectories, this position is uniquely rewarding. The successful candidate will join a productive team of professionals who are fully engaged with the students we serve.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree and 2 years of related experience
Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship.
Immigration sponsorship is not available for this position.

Nice To Haves

Experience coordinating, managing, or facilitating mentoring relationships between students, faculty, or graduate mentors.
Teaching experience at the undergraduate or college level, including developing assignments, supporting learning outcomes, or assisting with curriculum delivery.
Advising or mentoring experience in higher education, student success programs, research programs, or academic support roles.
Experience working with students preparing for post-baccalaureate study, graduate admissions, or academic application processes (e.g., working in a graduate admissions office, graduate program coordination, academic advising, or research program administration).
Research experience that includes designing studies, supporting data collection, mentoring undergraduate researchers, or collaborating with faculty on research projects.

Responsibilities

Assist students in securing faculty-mentored research positions and provide guidance on program policies and procedures.
Represent the McNair Program in campus and program-related activities.
Develop curriculum and instruct two research methods courses, including qualitative research methods.
Consult with students on research design, analysis, and scholarly communication.
Support students in preparing written and oral scientific communication and accompany them to academic conferences.
Oversee and evaluate mentoring partnerships between students, faculty, and graduate mentors.
Develop academic writing curricula and provide individualized feedback on graduate school application materials.
Work directly with students on writing components of graduate applications.
Collaborate with campus partners on student success initiatives.
Support program management, annual reporting, and communication with students.

Benefits

Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental
Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
Generous vacation, holiday and sick time and leave plans
Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
Life insurance and long-term disability
Flexible Spending Accounts
Various voluntary benefits and discounts
Employee Assistance Program
Wellbeing program
Iowa State offers WorkFlex options for some positions. WorkFlex offers flexibility on when, where, and how you do your work. For more information, please speak with the Hiring Manager.