What are the responsibilities and job description for the Program Specialists position at University of Utah Health Research?
Details
Open Date 05/18/2026
Requisition Number PRN45101B
Job Title Program Specialists
Working Title Program Specialists
Career Progression Track P00
Track Level P3 - Career
FLSA Code Professional
Patient Sensitive Job Code? Yes
Standard Hours per Week 40 hours
Full Time or Part Time? Full Time
Shift Day
Work Schedule Summary
Monday through Friday, 8am to 5pm with occasional evenings and weekends.
VP Area U of U Health - Academics
Department 02508 - VPCAT
Location Campus
City Salt Lake City, UT
Type of Recruitment External Posting
Pay Rate Range $36,196 to $83,036
Close Date 08/14/2026
Priority Review Date (Note - Posting may close at any time)
Job Summary
Program Specialists
Job Summary
The Program Specialist III supports the Vice President’s Clinical and Translational ( VPCAT ) Research Scholars Program within the University of Utah Health Office for Faculty. VPCAT is a competitive, two-year faculty development program that provides structured mentorship, curriculum, and grant support to early-career investigators pursuing clinical and translational research careers.
This role serves as a central coordinator for program operations, working closely with the program team, leadership, mentors, and faculty scholars. The Program Specialist is responsible for coordinating key program activities across the scholar lifecycle, including application processes, onboarding, curriculum delivery, and ongoing program support.
The position requires strong organizational judgment, the ability to manage multiple timelines, and confidence in prioritizing work during high-activity periods. The successful candidate will ensure program activities are delivered consistently, professionally, and on schedule, while maintaining clear communication across a diverse group of stakeholders.
This position is patient-sensitive and must fulfill all associated vaccination requirements, or be approved for an exemption, prior to the first day of work. We protect our patients, coworkers and community by requiring all patient-sensitive employees to be immunized according to CDC standards and hospital policy. Limited exemptions may be made for documented medical contraindications or religious beliefs that object to vaccinations.
Design and implement one or more programs for the university that carry out the mission. Set goals for each program. Determine benchmarks for successful and effective programs that achieve intended goals. Ensure that the programs and services provided reflect the needs and expectations of the community. Collect feedback from members, volunteers, and staff to improve future programs/services. Responsibilities may include fundraising, budgeting, and community outreach for assigned program(s). May manage special events that publicize the university and its programs to the community.
Learn more about the great benefits of working for University of Utah: benefits.utah.edu
The department may choose to hire at any of the below job levels and associated pay rates based on their business need and budget.
Responsibilities
RESPONSIBILITIES :
Program Coordination & Scholar Lifecycle Support
POSITION EXPECTATIONS
Program Specialists, III : Requires a bachelor’s (or equivalency) 6 years or a master’s (or equivalency) 4 years of directly related work experience.
Program Specialists, III
Design and implement one or more programs for the university that carry out the organization’s mission. Set goals for each program. Determine benchmarks for successful and effective programs that achieve intended goals. Ensure that the programs and services provided reflect the needs and expectations of the community. Collect feedback from members, volunteers, and staff to improve future programs/services. Responsibilities may include fundraising, budgeting, and community outreach for assigned program(s). May manage special events that publicize the organization and its programs to the community. Considered highly skilled and proficient in discipline. Conducts complex, important work under minimal supervision and with wide latitude for independent judgment.
Requires a bachelor’s (or equivalency) 6 years or a master’s (or equivalency) 4 years of directly related work experience.
This is a Career-Level position in the General Professional track.
Job Code: PZ3713
Grade: P15
Expected Pay Range: $36,196 to $83,036
CATEGORY IIA POSITION
This position is considered Category IIA : Not required to be on campus and has the ability to telework remotely. An employee hired into this role will be responsible for providing space, telephone, printing, networking and/or internet capabilities at the telecommute location and agree to the terms of the University of Utah campus and Health Academics Telecommuting Agreement.
Minimum Qualifications
EQUIVALENCY STATEMENT : 1 year of higher education can be substituted for 1 year of directly related work experience (Example: bachelor’s degree = 4 years of directly related work experience).
Department may hire employee at one of the following job levels:
Program Specialists, III : Requires a bachelor’s (or equivalency) 6 years or a master’s (or equivalency) 4 years of directly related work experience.
Preferences
PREFERENCES
Special Instructions Summary
Please submit your application, resume, cover letter and list of references.
Additional Information
The University is a participating employer with Utah Retirement Systems (“URS”). Eligible new hires with prior URS service, may elect to enroll in URS if they make the election before they become eligible for retirement (usually the first day of work). Contact Human Resources at (801) 581-7447 for information. Individuals who previously retired and are receiving monthly retirement benefits from URS are subject to URS’ post-retirement rules and restrictions. Please contact Utah Retirement Systems at (801) 366-7770 or (800) 695-4877 or University Human Resource Management at (801) 581-7447 if you have questions regarding the post-retirement rules.
This position may require the successful completion of a criminal background check and/or drug screen.
The University of Utah values candidates who have experience working in settings with students and possess a strong commitment to improving access to higher education.
Veterans’ preference is extended to qualified applicants, upon request and consistent with University policy and Utah state law. Upon request, reasonable accommodations in the application process will be provided to individuals with disabilities.
Consistent with state and federal law, the University of Utah does not discriminate based upon race, ethnicity, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, pregnancy-related conditions, genetic information, or protected veteran’s status. The University does not discriminate on the basis of sex in the education program or activity that it operates, as required by Title IX and 34 CFR part 106. The requirement not to discriminate in education programs or activities extends to admission and employment. Inquiries about the application of Title IX and its regulations may be referred to the Title IX Coordinator, to the Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights, or both.
To request a reasonable accommodation for a disability or if you or someone you know has experienced discrimination or sexual misconduct including sexual harassment, you may contact the Director/Title IX Coordinator in the Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX ( OEO ). More information, including the Director/Title IX Coordinator’s office address, electronic mail address, and telephone number can be located at the: University of Utah Non‑Discrimination page .
Online reports may be submitted at https://oeo.utah.edu
https://publicsafety.utah.edu/safetyreport/ This report includes statistics about criminal offenses, hate crimes, arrests and referrals for disciplinary action, and Violence Against Women Act offenses. They also provide information about safety and security-related services offered by the University of Utah. A paper copy can be obtained by request at the Department of Public Safety located at 1658 East 500 South.
As per University of Utah policy 5-108: Transfer of Benefits Eligible Staff Members , a new hire to the University of Utah who is still serving a 12 month probationary period will not be hired into another University of Utah job (a transfer) until the successful completion of the probationary period.
Open Date 05/18/2026
Requisition Number PRN45101B
Job Title Program Specialists
Working Title Program Specialists
Career Progression Track P00
Track Level P3 - Career
FLSA Code Professional
Patient Sensitive Job Code? Yes
Standard Hours per Week 40 hours
Full Time or Part Time? Full Time
Shift Day
Work Schedule Summary
Monday through Friday, 8am to 5pm with occasional evenings and weekends.
VP Area U of U Health - Academics
Department 02508 - VPCAT
Location Campus
City Salt Lake City, UT
Type of Recruitment External Posting
Pay Rate Range $36,196 to $83,036
Close Date 08/14/2026
Priority Review Date (Note - Posting may close at any time)
Job Summary
Program Specialists
Job Summary
The Program Specialist III supports the Vice President’s Clinical and Translational ( VPCAT ) Research Scholars Program within the University of Utah Health Office for Faculty. VPCAT is a competitive, two-year faculty development program that provides structured mentorship, curriculum, and grant support to early-career investigators pursuing clinical and translational research careers.
This role serves as a central coordinator for program operations, working closely with the program team, leadership, mentors, and faculty scholars. The Program Specialist is responsible for coordinating key program activities across the scholar lifecycle, including application processes, onboarding, curriculum delivery, and ongoing program support.
The position requires strong organizational judgment, the ability to manage multiple timelines, and confidence in prioritizing work during high-activity periods. The successful candidate will ensure program activities are delivered consistently, professionally, and on schedule, while maintaining clear communication across a diverse group of stakeholders.
This position is patient-sensitive and must fulfill all associated vaccination requirements, or be approved for an exemption, prior to the first day of work. We protect our patients, coworkers and community by requiring all patient-sensitive employees to be immunized according to CDC standards and hospital policy. Limited exemptions may be made for documented medical contraindications or religious beliefs that object to vaccinations.
Design and implement one or more programs for the university that carry out the mission. Set goals for each program. Determine benchmarks for successful and effective programs that achieve intended goals. Ensure that the programs and services provided reflect the needs and expectations of the community. Collect feedback from members, volunteers, and staff to improve future programs/services. Responsibilities may include fundraising, budgeting, and community outreach for assigned program(s). May manage special events that publicize the university and its programs to the community.
Learn more about the great benefits of working for University of Utah: benefits.utah.edu
The department may choose to hire at any of the below job levels and associated pay rates based on their business need and budget.
Responsibilities
RESPONSIBILITIES :
Program Coordination & Scholar Lifecycle Support
- Coordinate the annual VPCAT application process, including preparing materials, tracking applicants, and organizing review meetings
- Prepare and distribute applicant notifications, progress reports, and program communications
- Support onboarding of new scholars by scheduling and coordinating initial meetings and orientation activities
- Maintain tracking systems and ensure accurate documentation across all stages of the program
- Coordinate twice-monthly curriculum sessions (virtual and in-person), including scheduling presenters and managing logistics
- Host virtual sessions (Zoom), including recordings and technical support
- Coordinate in-person sessions, including room scheduling, catering, and event setup
- Track attendance, collect evaluations, and maintain session materials for program records
- Draft, edit, and distribute program communications in collaboration with program leadership
- Develop and manage monthly VPCAT Victories communications highlighting scholar accomplishments
- Assist with maintaining and updating website and program materials
- Coordinate day-to-day program operations, including scheduling meetings and maintaining calendars for program leadership
- Prepare meeting agendas, document discussions, and distribute meeting summaries
- Support quarterly mentor and advisory board meetings
- Manage program logistics, including purchasing supplies and coordinating event needs
- Maintain program tracking systems (primarily Excel-based) to support reporting and program evaluation
- Assist with data collection, organization, and reporting needs across program activities
- Ensure accuracy and consistency in program records and documentation
- Work closely with the VPCAT Research Manager, Research Development Associate, and Program Director to support program goals
- Serve as a point of contact for program-related questions and coordinate responses across stakeholders
- Use sound judgment to resolve scheduling, logistical, and operational challenges
- Support broader Office for Faculty activities and provide cross-coverage as needed
POSITION EXPECTATIONS
- Manage multiple priorities and deadlines across overlapping program activities
- Demonstrate strong attention to detail while maintaining efficiency
- Communicate clearly and professionally with faculty, staff, and leadership
- Exercise independent judgment in organizing work and responding to time-sensitive needs
- Contribute to a collaborative and professional team environment
Program Specialists, III : Requires a bachelor’s (or equivalency) 6 years or a master’s (or equivalency) 4 years of directly related work experience.
Program Specialists, III
Design and implement one or more programs for the university that carry out the organization’s mission. Set goals for each program. Determine benchmarks for successful and effective programs that achieve intended goals. Ensure that the programs and services provided reflect the needs and expectations of the community. Collect feedback from members, volunteers, and staff to improve future programs/services. Responsibilities may include fundraising, budgeting, and community outreach for assigned program(s). May manage special events that publicize the organization and its programs to the community. Considered highly skilled and proficient in discipline. Conducts complex, important work under minimal supervision and with wide latitude for independent judgment.
Requires a bachelor’s (or equivalency) 6 years or a master’s (or equivalency) 4 years of directly related work experience.
This is a Career-Level position in the General Professional track.
Job Code: PZ3713
Grade: P15
Expected Pay Range: $36,196 to $83,036
CATEGORY IIA POSITION
This position is considered Category IIA : Not required to be on campus and has the ability to telework remotely. An employee hired into this role will be responsible for providing space, telephone, printing, networking and/or internet capabilities at the telecommute location and agree to the terms of the University of Utah campus and Health Academics Telecommuting Agreement.
Minimum Qualifications
EQUIVALENCY STATEMENT : 1 year of higher education can be substituted for 1 year of directly related work experience (Example: bachelor’s degree = 4 years of directly related work experience).
Department may hire employee at one of the following job levels:
Program Specialists, III : Requires a bachelor’s (or equivalency) 6 years or a master’s (or equivalency) 4 years of directly related work experience.
Preferences
PREFERENCES
- Experience coordinating complex programs with competing priorities and dependencies
- Strong written communication and editing skills
- Experience supporting academic, research, or faculty development programs
- Advanced proficiency in Zoom and Microsoft Office (Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, SharePoint, Teams)
- Experience working in remote, hybrid office settings
- Ability to manage data tracking systems and maintain organized file structures
Special Instructions Summary
Please submit your application, resume, cover letter and list of references.
Additional Information
The University is a participating employer with Utah Retirement Systems (“URS”). Eligible new hires with prior URS service, may elect to enroll in URS if they make the election before they become eligible for retirement (usually the first day of work). Contact Human Resources at (801) 581-7447 for information. Individuals who previously retired and are receiving monthly retirement benefits from URS are subject to URS’ post-retirement rules and restrictions. Please contact Utah Retirement Systems at (801) 366-7770 or (800) 695-4877 or University Human Resource Management at (801) 581-7447 if you have questions regarding the post-retirement rules.
This position may require the successful completion of a criminal background check and/or drug screen.
The University of Utah values candidates who have experience working in settings with students and possess a strong commitment to improving access to higher education.
Veterans’ preference is extended to qualified applicants, upon request and consistent with University policy and Utah state law. Upon request, reasonable accommodations in the application process will be provided to individuals with disabilities.
Consistent with state and federal law, the University of Utah does not discriminate based upon race, ethnicity, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, pregnancy-related conditions, genetic information, or protected veteran’s status. The University does not discriminate on the basis of sex in the education program or activity that it operates, as required by Title IX and 34 CFR part 106. The requirement not to discriminate in education programs or activities extends to admission and employment. Inquiries about the application of Title IX and its regulations may be referred to the Title IX Coordinator, to the Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights, or both.
To request a reasonable accommodation for a disability or if you or someone you know has experienced discrimination or sexual misconduct including sexual harassment, you may contact the Director/Title IX Coordinator in the Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX ( OEO ). More information, including the Director/Title IX Coordinator’s office address, electronic mail address, and telephone number can be located at the: University of Utah Non‑Discrimination page .
Online reports may be submitted at https://oeo.utah.edu
https://publicsafety.utah.edu/safetyreport/ This report includes statistics about criminal offenses, hate crimes, arrests and referrals for disciplinary action, and Violence Against Women Act offenses. They also provide information about safety and security-related services offered by the University of Utah. A paper copy can be obtained by request at the Department of Public Safety located at 1658 East 500 South.
As per University of Utah policy 5-108: Transfer of Benefits Eligible Staff Members , a new hire to the University of Utah who is still serving a 12 month probationary period will not be hired into another University of Utah job (a transfer) until the successful completion of the probationary period.
Salary : $36,196 - $83,036