What are the responsibilities and job description for the ASSOCIATE SPECIALIST - SPECIALIST - Business Operations Specialist position at Southwest Research Institute?
ASSOCIATE SPECIALIST - SPECIALIST - Business Operations Specialist
10-01541
Who We Are:
The Intelligent Systems Division develops automated solutions for commercial and government clients in multiple domains including transportation (traffic management, connected automated vehicle), manufacturing robotics, medical prognostics and communication standards.
Objectives of this Role:
Provide high-level operational support.
Serve as a trusted partner to senior staff by managing departmental logistics, supporting project execution, event planning and operations, and ensuring consistent operational excellence.
Assist in leading and improving organizational processes.
Drive improvements to business operations through the development, documentation, and communication of streamlined processes for procurement, contracting, finance, and internal coordination.
Enable informed decision-making through analysis and reporting.
Collect, analyze, and present data to support departmental planning, budgeting, and performance tracking — including the creation of clear, actionable visuals and reports.
Foster Cross-functional collaboration and communication.
Act as a liaison between internal teams and stakeholders to ensure alignment, maintain momentum on key initiatives, and confidently move tasks forward to completion.
Champion a culture of excellence and professionalism.
Lead by example in best practices - support a culture of continuous improvement.
Daily and Monthly Responsibilities:
Departmental leadership & staff coordination.
Coordinate and support staff across two departments, ensuring alignment with organizational goals, consistency in process execution, and professional development support.
Business operations & process management.
Manage, support, and improve internal processes related to contracting, procurement, budgeting, and reporting.
Develop, document, and communicate streamlined workflows to increase efficiency.
Communication, documentation & information management.
Draft and edit high-quality written content, including internal communications, presentations, policies, and reports.
Maintain and update knowledge platforms (e.g., SharePoint, Confluence) to ensure accurate information.
Data analysis & reporting - Compile, analyze, and present operational and financial data to inform decision-making.
Create and maintain spreadsheets, dashboards, and visualizations that track key departmental metrics.
Large Meeting Support - Plan, organize, and operate meetings in the campus' largest presentation meeting room.
Requirements:
Requires a Bachelors degree in Business or related degree fields.
0 years: Proven ability to manage and improve processes across contracting, procurement, accounting, and organizational workflows. Experience designing and communicating new procedures, driving change management, and ensuring compliance.
Planning and coordinating large events and using PowerPoint or other presentation software. Experience with audio visual equipment preferred.
Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, including copywriting, copy-editing, and presentation development.
Advanced skills in Microsoft Excel (pivot tables, formulas, charts), PowerPoint, Word, and Outlook. Experience using SharePoint and/or Confluence to manage documentation and workflows. Ability to analyze data.
A valid/clear driver's license is required.
Special Requirements:
Applicant selected will be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information. Applicant must be a U.S. citizen.
Job Locations: San Antonio, Texas
