Dept Program Spec II, LLE

As a community, the University of Rochester is defined by a deep commitment to Meliora - Ever Better. Embedded in that ideal are the values we share: equity, leadership, integrity, openness, respect, and accountability. Together, we will set the highest standards for how we treat each other to ensure our community is welcoming to all and is a place where all can thrive.

Job Location (Full Address):

250 East River Rd, Rochester, New York, United States of America, 14623

Opening:

Worker Subtype:

Regular

Time Type:

Full time

Scheduled Weekly Hours:

40

Department:

250548 LLE-Laboratory for Laser Energ

Work Shift:

UR - Day (United States of America)

Range:

UR URG 108

Compensation Range:

$52,300.00 - $73,300.00

The referenced pay range represents the minimum and maximum compensation for this job. Individual annual salaries/hourly rates will be set within the job's compensation range, and will be determined by considering factors including, but not limited to, market data, education, experience, qualifications, expertise of the individual, and internal equity considerations.

Responsibilities:

The Laboratory for Laser Energetics (LLE) seeks a highly motivated and organized individual to join the Education Program Office in a role focused on coordinating and expanding LLE’s undergraduate research and workforce-development programs. Working closely with the Director of the Education Program Office, the successful candidate will play a central role in managing the LLE Undergraduate Research Program while helping develop new opportunities that broaden the impact of LLE’s education and workforce initiatives.

The position will lead day-to-day coordination of the LLE Undergraduate Research Program, which engages approximately 70 students from across the country each semester in hands-on research spanning laser–plasma science, engineering, and computation. The role will also contribute to the development of new initiatives, partnerships, and program activities that support the continued growth of LLE’s education mission.

This position offers a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of science, workforce development, and large-scale research while helping shape programs that prepare students for careers in national laboratories, academia, industry, and other technically demanding environments.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Undergraduate Research Program Coordination

• Lead coordination and day-to-day management of the LLE Undergraduate Research Program
• Review and organize student applications; coordinate the matching of students with LLE research mentors
• Maintain and continuously improve application systems, databases, and participant records
• Track program participation, outcomes, alumni engagement, and workforce-development metrics
• Serve as a primary point of contact for undergraduate participants, ensuring a smooth and professional program experience

Operations & Student Support

• Coordinate with University of Rochester on student onboarding and summer housing logistics
• Work with LLE HR to facilitate hiring, appointments, payroll, and administrative processes
• Support coordination of student travel, seminars, laboratory tours, and external visits (e.g., national laboratories)
• Foster a welcoming, inclusive, and supportive environment that encourages student engagement, professional growth, and participation within the LLE community

Program Development & Execution

• Support planning and execution of educational and workforce-development activities, including seminars, workshops, outreach events, and external visits
• Contribute to development of new program elements that enhance student experience, technical training, and workforce readiness
• Help identify opportunities to expand educational partnerships and broaden participation in LLE programs
• Assist in tracking program metrics and preparing reports, presentations, and communication materials for internal and external stakeholders
• Contribute to development of operational systems and organizational practices that improve program coordination, efficiency, and long-term continuity

Program Growth & Strategic Development

• Work closely with the Director of the Education Program Office to support program planning, operational coordination, and external engagement
• Assume increasing responsibility for coordination of educational initiatives, partnerships, and program activities
• Contribute to shaping the future growth of LLE education and workforce-development efforts, including expansion into new program areas and collaborative opportunities
• Support engagement with universities, national laboratories, sponsors, and external partners that strengthen LLE’s role in the national scientific workforce pipeline

Program Impact & Context
The LLE Undergraduate Research Program is a cornerstone of LLE’s contribution to the national scientific workforce pipeline. Each year, the program provides undergraduate students with hands-on experience in a world-class research environment spanning high-energy-density physics, laser science, engineering, computation, diagnostics, and advanced technologies.

For many students, the experience is transformative—not only for what they learn technically, but for the broader perspective it provides on how large-scale scientific research is conducted. Through direct participation in multidisciplinary teams and exposure to national laboratory environments, students gain practical skills and insight into the collaborative effort required to execute complex scientific missions.

The program is designed to help address a critical workforce challenge facing the United States: the growing need for engineers, technical professionals, and scientists capable of contributing to large, team-based research efforts that support national scientific and energy priorities.

MINIMUM EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor's degree and 2 years of relevant experience required
• Advanced degree preferred (STEM or related field a plus)
• Or equivalent combination of education and experience

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Strong project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously required
• Proven experience in budget management and financial reporting required
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work across diverse groups including students, faculty, researchers, staff, and external partners required
• Proficiency with data analysis tools and software, as well as Microsoft Office Suite required
• Experience with database management, application systems, event coordination, or program administration preferred

• Interest in science, engineering, education, and workforce development strongly desired

• Ability to manage multiple priorities and contribute effectively within a dynamic research environment

The University of Rochester is committed to fostering, cultivating, and preserving an inclusive and welcoming culture to advance the University’s Mission to Learn, Discover, Heal, Create – and Make the World Ever Better. In support of our values and those of our society, the University is committed to not discriminating on the basis of age, color, disability, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, military/veteran status, national origin, race, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, citizenship status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law (Protected Characteristics). This commitment extends to non-discrimination in the administration of our policies, admissions, employment, access, and recruitment of candidates, for all persons consistent with our values and based on applicable law.