Program Specialist I

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Ames, IAPosted Today

Role Overview

Iowa State University is hiring a entry-level Program Specialist I. This is a full-time role in Ames. posted today. applications are still in the early window, before most candidates have applied. Full responsibilities, required qualifications, and the apply link are listed in the description below.

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Job description

Position Title:

Program Specialist I

Job Group:

Professional & Scientific

Required Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree

Job Description:

Help connect people, programs, and partnerships in support of one of Iowa State’s leading diagnostic resources. The Iowa State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory (VDL) is seeking a Program Specialist I to support client engagement, educational outreach, event coordination, and communication efforts that strengthen relationships with veterinarians, producers, industry professionals, and laboratory partners. This role plays an important part in creating a positive client experience while supporting the VDL’s mission of providing trusted diagnostic services and resources.

The Program Specialist I will coordinate meetings, trainings, and events; manage logistics and communication with internal and external partners; and help maintain welcoming and effective public spaces within the laboratory. This position will provide client submission support, respond to inquiries, assist with training and educational materials, and contribute to newsletters, brochures, website content, and other outreach resources. The ideal candidate will be highly organized, detail-oriented, and comfortable collaborating with a variety of stakeholders while using technology and data tools to support communication and program initiatives. Occasional travel, including attendance at meetings, trainings, and potential on-farm visits, may be required.

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience supporting outreach, teaching, or public relations initiatives.
Experience maintaining educational material, websites, newsletters, social media, or other communication platforms.
Experience coordinating logistics for large-scale events, trainings, or conferences.
Experience working with agricultural industry professionals including food animal producers and/or veterinarians.

About the Department:

The Iowa State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory (ISU VDL) is a nationally recognized leader in veterinary diagnostics, providing critical testing, consultation, education, and outreach services to support animal health, public health, and agricultural industries. As one of the largest veterinary diagnostic laboratories in the country, the ISU VDL partners with veterinarians, producers, researchers, government agencies, and industry professionals to deliver accurate and timely diagnostic information. Through innovation, collaboration, and a commitment to service, the ISU VDL advances animal health and supports Iowa’s agricultural community and beyond.

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.

Application Instructions:
To apply for this position, please click on “Apply” and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:

Resume/Curriculum Vitae

Letter of Application/Cover Letter

Why Choose Iowa State University?
Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental, as well as:

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

If you have questions regarding this application process, please email employment@iastate.edu, or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.

Appointment Type:

Regular

Number of Months Employed Per Year:

12 Month Work Period

Time Type:

Part time

Pay Grade:

PS806

Original Posting Date:

July 23, 2026

Posting Close Date:

July 30, 2026

Job Requisition Number:

R19635

Iowa State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, ethnicity, religion, national origin, pregnancy, sexual orientation, genetic information, sex, marital status, disability, or status as a U.S. Veteran. Inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies may be directed to Office of Equal Opportunity, 2680 Beardshear Hall, 515 Morrill Road, Ames, Iowa 50011, Tel. 515-294-7612, email eooffice@iastate.edu.

General ISU compensation information can be found on the University Human Resources website. Please note that this is only a list of ranges and individuals will be paid commensurate with qualifications.

About Iowa State University

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply for the Program Specialist I position at Iowa State University?

Use the Apply button above to submit your application directly to Iowa State University. Most applications take less than 5 minutes if your resume and contact details are ready, and you'll be routed to the employer's official application system to finish.

Where is the Program Specialist I position at Iowa State University located?

This position is based in Ames. Iowa State University has not indicated remote or hybrid options for this role, so candidates should plan for on-site work.

What does a Program Specialist I at Iowa State University earn?

Iowa State University has not disclosed a salary range in this posting. Many employers share specifics later in the interview process; you can also ask during a recruiter screen if compensation transparency is important to you.

When was the Program Specialist I role at Iowa State University posted?

This role was posted on July 23, 2026 (today). It's still listed as actively hiring; we re-confirm openings against the source system multiple times per day and remove closed roles.

Is the Program Specialist I role at Iowa State University entry-level?

Yes. This is an entry-level position. Strong candidates typically have 0-2 years of relevant work experience, internships, or significant project work. Read the full description for any specific qualification requirements Iowa State University has listed.