Program Specialist

Program Specialist – Support the Next Generation of STEM Talent

ORAU is seeking a detail-oriented and mission-driven Program Specialist to support the successful delivery of educational internship, fellowship, and research programs sponsored by federal agencies and other partners. In this dynamic role, you will help power programs that shape the next generation of scientists, researchers, and professionals-serving as a key connection point for applicants, participants, sponsors, and internal teams.

As a Program Specialist, you will coordinate program operations from application processing and participant support to financial tracking, reporting, outreach, and event logistics. You'll work with multiple data systems, ensure compliance with policies, support broad communications efforts, and provide exceptional customer service.

This role also plays an active part in advancing Artificial Intelligence (AI) modernization efforts: identifying opportunities to enhance efficiency, improve processes, and integrate emerging technologies into daily operations. We are looking for someone who is organized, proactive, technically savvy, and comfortable managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

APPOINTMENT TYPE: Full-Time Regular

LOCATION: Oak Ridge, TN

SALARY RANGE: $20.92 - $27.98 per hour

PURPOSE: Program Specialist – Support the Next Generation of STEM Talent

ORAU’s mission is to support educational internship, fellowship, and research programs that shape the next generation of scientists, researchers, and professionals.

• Coordinate and perform technical support activities for program segments.
• Maintain data and electronic records, process payments, verify eligibility, and compile information.
• Prepare sponsor reports and correspondence.
• Prioritize and schedule tasks and activities based on program objectives and milestones.
• Plan and support meetings, conferences, and seminars.
• Coordinate logistics, scheduling, travel arrangements, meeting space, food service, and equipment.
• Provide on-site and off-site administrative support for meetings, conferences, and seminars.
• Conduct procurement activities including gathering information, requisitioning, tracking orders and processing payments.
• Engage with applicants, participants, the general public, and alumni in virtual outreach events such as career fairs, information sessions, and webinars.
• Provide technical assistance to project managers and others using software/databases such as Zintellect, ORISE GO, SAP Concur, ORISE Connections.
• Administer details associated with application processing.
• Execute tasks detailed in the program marketing and outreach plan including distributing promotional materials and posting program information.
• Support the application process including eligibility screening, review, and data verification.
• Use databases, spreadsheets and electronic financial systems to enter, verify, and maintain data.
• Create reports from databases and other electronic systems.
• Assist in preparing applicant files for review by sponsors and/or review panels.
• Monitor administrative details associated with participants’ activities, ensuring contingencies are met and processing stipend, health insurance, tuition, professional development, and travel payments.
• Monitor progress of participant appointments, amendments, extensions, and terminations.
• Provide customer service by telephone and email.
• Execute tasks detailed in the program management plan.
• Verify compliance with programs and ORISE policies.
• Communicate with stakeholders via telephone and email.
• Coordinate mass electronic mailings and prepare correspondence, program literature, marketing materials, websites, and reports using software packages.
• Actively contribute to AI modernization initiatives by supporting integration and implementation of AI tools and technologies.
• Assist management in developing processes to maximize program operation efficiencies.

High school diploma and 2-4 years of job‑related experience. Bachelor’s degree preferred. An equivalent combination of education and experience may be substituted for the minimum requirements.

• Excellent oral and written…