Program Specialist I

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.