Administrative Operations Specialist II

Position Summary:

The Interdisciplinary Research Support Office (IRSO) provides comprehensive post-award and administrative services for multidisciplinary and multi-institutional research initiatives, as well as for centers and institutes across Rice University. As a central unit supporting a broad portfolio of interdisciplinary activities, IRSO offers staff exposure to a wide range of research programs, operational needs, and stakeholder groups across the university’s research enterprise.

The Administrative Operations Specialist II provides administrative, financial, and operational support to faculty, research centers, institutes, and campus administrators. The position functions within IRSO’s collaborative and highly dynamic work environment, which emphasizes process improvement, operational excellence, and effective service delivery to diverse research partners.

IRSO operates under a flexible, team-based organizational model that promotes cross-training, shared problem-solving, and the adoption of innovative practices, tools, and technologies. Staff routinely work across projects and functional areas, fostering a cohesive environment that supports professional development, encourages initiative, and enables individuals to expand their capabilities in alignment with evolving research needs.

Special Instructions to Applicants:

All interested applicants should attach a resume and cover letter in the Supporting Documents section of the application, preferably in PDF format to avoid any formatting issues.

Ideal Candidate Statement:

The ideal candidate is a highly organized, adaptable professional who excels in fast-paced environments and demonstrates strong attention to detail, initiative, and reliability. The role requires someone capable of managing financial and administrative responsibilities with accuracy while navigating shifting priorities and operational demands.

The position values individuals who exhibit curiosity, adaptability, and an interest in leveraging emerging technologies and AI-enabled tools to enhance workflows and improve operational efficiency. Candidates should be motivated to expand their skills and assume increasing levels of responsibility within a dynamic research administration setting.

This role is well suited for someone seeking to build strong experience in financial operations, organizational support, and research administration while contributing to a collaborative, team-oriented environment that supports professional growth and continuous learning.

Workplace Requirements:

This position is offered as a hybrid role designed to support both flexibility and effective in-person collaboration. Per Rice policy 440, work arrangements may be subject to change.

Hiring Range: $56,560-$65,000

*Exempt (salaried) positions under FLSA are not eligible for overtime.

Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree

• 2+ years of administrative experience

Skills:

• Ability to independently manage multiple time-sensitive projects, shifting priorities, and competing deadlines with consistency and accuracy

• Demonstrated ownership of responsibilities and proactive follow-through, with strong attention to detail and accuracy

• Sound judgment, effective decision-making abilities, and strong analytical thinking skills in a fast-paced environment

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively while maintaining professionalism, diplomacy, and discretion when handling confidential or sensitive information

• Consistently produces high-quality work, demonstrates reliability, and follows through on commitments

• Ability to work effectively in virtual meeting and team-based environments, including platforms such as Zoom and Microsoft Teams

Preferences:

• Interest in or experience with financial operations, including budgeting, reconciliation, or related administrative financial activities

• Enthusiasm for learning and adopting new tools, with comfort experimenting with evolving technologies and workplace practices

• Self-motivated and resourceful, with the ability to troubleshoot issues and develop solutions proactively

• Enjoys contributing to a collaborative team environment, sharing knowledge, and supporting group process-improvement efforts

• Familiarity with enterprise business systems, including Oracle-based platforms or similar systems

• Willingness to explore emerging technologies, including AI-enabled solutions, to enhance efficiency and workflows

Essential Functions:

• Leads the planning and operations of a department, function, or program that may have significant business, regulatory, and technical challenges requiring subject-matter expertise

• Manages unit budgets, human resources, and facilities-related functions

• Serves as the primary provider of purchasing support to the department and supports departmental initiatives as needed

• Prepares and submits expenditure reports for faculty and support staff, as required

• Evaluates programs, policies, and procedures

• Identifies issues and develops alternative solutions, which may include changes to programs, policies, and procedures

• Reviews and analyzes trends to develop recommendations that support or modify the goals of the department, program, or function

• Develops and implements outreach strategies that may include relationship development, communications, and compliance initiatives

• Organizes, manages, and completes special projects

• Provides calendar support, as required, including the planning and implementation of associated outreach activities that may include communications, events, training, conferences, and fundraising efforts

• Performs all other duties as assigned

Rice University HR | Benefits: https://knowledgecafe.rice.edu/benefits
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Rice University is committed to ensuring Equal Employment Opportunity and welcoming the fullness of diversity into our candidate pools. Rice considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, genetic information, disability, or protected veteran status. Rice also provides reasonable accommodations to qualified persons with disabilities. If an applicant requires a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process, please get in touch with Rice University’s Human Resources Office via email at facstaffada@rice.edu for support.

If you have any additional questions, please email us at jobs@rice.edu. Thank you for your interest in employment with Rice University.