Program Specialist

Job Description Program SpecialistMONELL CHEMICAL SENSES CENTERThe Monell Chemical Senses Center is the world's leading independent research institute dedicated to the senses of taste and smell. Monell maintains longstanding partnerships with industry to translate discoveries into products and technologies that improve human health, nutrition, and sensory well-being. The Center also leads multiple federal training initiatives, including NIH-supported programs to prepare the next generation of scientific innovators.Position OverviewMonell seeks a highly organized and detail-oriented Program Specialist to support Academic Affairs programming and operations. This role is ideal for someone early in their administrative career who enjoys working behind the scenes to ensure programs and events run smoothly.This position is primarily funded through the Monell Science Entrepreneurship Program for Healthy Aging (MSEP-HA), and as such, particular attention and support will be dedicated to the coordination and execution of this program alongside other Academic Affairs initiatives.The Program Specialist will provide essential coordination and logistical support across multiple training programs and internal initiatives, including seminar series, journal clubs, and professional development activities. The ideal candidate is proactive, dependable, and eager to learn, with strong communication skills and a hospitality-oriented mindset.Students and early-career professionals are encouraged to apply. Please note, a cover letter is mandatory; please upload it as an additional document.Key ResponsibilitiesMSEP-HA Program SupportProvide dedicated administrative and logistical support for the MSEP-HA training program, including scheduling, materials preparation, and coordination of program activitiesAssist with trainee onboarding, communications, and day-to-day program operationsSupport tracking of participation, basic metrics, and program documentationProgram & Event CoordinationSupport logistics for training programs, seminar series, and journal clubsCoordinate scheduling across speakers, trainees, and internal stakeholdersAssist with room bookings, calendar management, and event setupAdministrative & Operational SupportSchedule meetings, prepare agendas, and take clear, actionable notesManage email communications and maintain organized records and tracking systemsCompile and organize basic program metrics and participation dataHospitality & Event ExperienceCoordinate catering (e.g., ordering meals, managing deliveries, setup/cleanup)Serve as a welcoming, professional point of contact for program participants and guestsCommunications & MaterialsCreate and update flyers, announcements, and program materials using Canva templatesAssist with distributing communications to internal and external audiencesRequired QualificationsHigh school diploma or equivalent (Associate's or Bachelor's degree in progress or completed preferred)Strong organizational skills and attention to detailExcellent written and verbal communication skillsAbility to manage multiple tasks and deadlines in a fast-paced environmentProficiency with Microsoft Office or Google WorkspaceWillingness to learn new tools and systemsPreferred QualificationsPrior administrative, customer service, or hospitality experienceExperience supporting events, meetings, or academic programmingFamiliarity with Canva or similar design toolsInterest in higher education, research, or program administrationWhat Success Looks Like in This RoleWithin the first year, the Program Specialist reliably supports the smooth execution of MSEP-HA and related Academic Affairs programming by maintaining organized systems, clear communication, and consistent attention to detail. They become a trusted operational partner who ensures events and training activities run seamlessly while proactively improving coordination and efficiency across programs.Equal Employment Opportunity StatementMonell provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.Application InstructionsPlease apply through our Career Center by following the link below.https://workforcenow.adp.com/mascsr/default/mdf/recruitment/recruitment.html?cid=d24b5e1f-d19a-4772-990f-d7a981aadfe4&ccId=19000101_000001&jobId=961303&lang=en_US&source=CC2