The Salk Institute for Biological Studies is one of the world's preeminent basic research institutions, where internationally renowned faculty probe fundamental life science questions in a unique, collaborative, and creative environment. Focused on both discovery and mentoring future generations of researchers, Salk scientists make groundbreaking contributions to our understanding of cancer, aging, Alzheimer's, diabetes, and cardiovascular disorders by studying neuroscience, genetics, cell and plant biology, and related disciplines.
Faculty achievements have been recognized with numerous honors, including Nobel Prizes and memberships in the National Academy of Sciences. Founded in 1960 by polio vaccine pioneer Jonas Salk, M.D., the Institute is an independent nonprofit organization and architectural landmark.
Salk Equal Opportunity and Non-Discrimination Statement
The Salk Institute for Biological Studies is committed to providing equal access to opportunities for students, employees, applicants for employment and other persons.
Our policies prohibit harassment or unlawful discrimination against individuals on the basis of sex, gender, marital or parental status, pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, medical conditions/disabilities related to pregnancy, childbirth or breastfeeding, gender identity, gender expression, or sexual orientation age, ancestry, color, religion (including religious dress and grooming practices), family and/or medical care leave status, disability (mental or physical), registered domestic partner status, legally protected medical condition, genetic information, military or veteran status (disabled veteran, veteran of the Vietnam era, other covered veteran status), national origin (including language use restrictions and possession of a driver’s license), race, religion or any other classification protected by local, state or federal laws.
The Salk Institute participates in the E-Verify program.
Reasonable accommodation is available for qualified individuals with disabilities and for individuals with religious restrictions.
Salk Institute for Biological Studies
10010 North Torrey Pines La Jolla, CA 92037
This position is responsible for the strategies around assessment, research, design, creation and delivery of learning and development programs and initiatives that are relevant, timely, relatable, and measurable so that learning is embedded into the fabric of Salk for all members of the Salk community. Planning and building momentum and support for initiatives by providing tools and avenues for supervisors to own, create/facilitate and reinforce learning through application will be critical.
The incumbent will focus first and until further notice on strategies to meet the most pressing training and development issues facing the Institute for all cohorts in alignment with leadership goals, coordinating closely with the Office of Equity & Inclusion and Human Resources to develop and present a long-term strategy for the Institute that is attainable, sustainable and measurable.
This role will identify ways of merging traditional methods of design and development of learning content and programs in a manner that is relevant and timely through approaches that address historical barriers to user engagement. The ability to be nimble and creative in terms of learning deployment and capitalizing on opportunities to develop learning champions into area trainers who can create and deliver decentralized content will be key to success.
A focus for this position will be peer engagement, interactive learning, and platforms that encourage problem solving through shared experiences to encourage learning that is social and contextual and so participants are invested in it.
This position will be expected to influence individuals at all levels of the organization so learning and development becomes relatable and the value is understood and appreciated. This function is intended to build and advocate for a training model, that demonstrates an investment in employees so continuous development and support for employees becomes an expected norm. An emphasis on access, shared information, collaboration, and productivity in a manner that recognizes travel and work commitments will all be measures of success that the offerings are relevant targeted, and intuitive.
The completion of organizational needs assessments, development and delivery of a variety of organizational development programs including leadership development, skills training, succession planning and organizational change initiatives, compliance training, e-learning, and specialized training needs such as modules/programs that support the diversity of and inclusion for, our population, are key components of this role.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
1) Needs assessment & strategic planning (35%)
Participates with members of management to identify needs and establish strategic plans and objectives for learning and development, including the development of a staffing plan and areas for cost-effective outsourcing to meet immediate needs.
Responsible for the conceptualization, design, development and execution of learning/development in support of strategic initiatives.
Evaluates and prepares a plan for effective and relevant faculty professional development taking accessibility, scheduling constraints and other perceived barriers to engagement into account.
Works in partnership with the Human Resources (HR) team, the Office of Equity & Inclusion (OEI), Institute leadership teams, the Postdoctoral Office (PDO), to identify and implement organizational development programs, processes and training initiatives to proactively address organizational development and business needs, through a variety of delivery means (e.g., live, e-learning, self-paced, etc.) as appropriate for the audience/cohort.
Works closely with the HR team on initiatives to effectuate talent management, career development and succession planning.
Identifies and implements appropriate measurement systems to ensure learning objectives are being met.
2) Training & Coaching Facilitation (25%)
Creates a bank of external coaches for Salk who can be tapped for proactive coaching as high potential faculty and administrators and those poised for promotion have access to resources prior to moving into a new role. Ensures this resource is also appropriate for incumbents when it becomes necessary for further personal growth and professional development.
Ensures delivery and facilitation of effective training in a variety of formats, including classroom, online, role-playing, group discussion, and other methods depending upon specific needs, learning styles and work-related constraints. May be the live facilitator or may identify outsourced resources or learning champions within Salk to develop/deliver training.
Works with the OEI and HR to recommend, develop and deploy learning opportunities that affirm the basic tenets of cultural advocacy and appreciation for all members of the campus and related inclusion efforts. Supports initiatives aimed to promote race relations, civility (e.g., bullying, professional conduct, bystander intervention, implicit bias, advocacy, and proactive conflict resolution).
Develops career development modules for groups at Salk that recognize the critical role of their professional cohort (e.g., lab managers) and align with retention goals.
Works with the PDO staff to develop and deploy training that supports and promotes initiatives aimed at advocacy, and proactive conflict resolution to strengthen their skills and resources and to foster career development.
Works with the CSO to develop and deploy training that supports faculty professional development to prepare them for their advancement as Salk leaders.
Develops methods, techniques, and evaluation criteria for projects, programs, and people. Helps HR and supervisors connect learning & development initiatives to performance management and evaluation.
3) Program Management (30%)
Develops and maintains relationships with a variety of stakeholders on campus and provides training support to established groups that provide direction and support to the training function. Using evaluations from participants, supervisors and colleagues, prepares and presents summary reports and recommendations for management that outline training results and impact
Develops scopes of work for outside vendor relationships in the learning and development space in collaboration with Procurement and other members of HR.
Ensures logistical support in the assessment, development, planning, marketing and execution of approved programming. Evaluates where collateral materials are beneficial and ensures their creation/delivery. Ensures that post-training evaluations are conducted. Creates and uses metrics to measure return on investment.
Ensures that the training module of the human capital management system (HCM) is maximized. Troubleshoots issues with the HCM System Manager to ensure timely, accurate use of the system for registration, cancellation, attendance, tracking and reporting.
In consultation with others who may need access to centralized training funds, prepares and manages training budget.
In coordination with the Communications Department, will propose and/or develop regular, timely, creative communications around training value strategically designed to drive engagement and interest in training and related internal initiatives. Avenues include but are not limited to the HR/Training website, Salk this Week entries, all-campus emails, etc.
Oversees, monitors and strengthens relationship with UCSD staff education so it is leveraged effectively. Networks with the UCSD academic personnel department to determine how partnerships can be forged to develop our faculty.
4) Research (10%)
Engages in research, memberships (ATD, CUPA-HR) and other means to keep abreast of best practices and continually assesses and realigns direction as appropriate for the benefit of constituents and the campus overall.
Looks for new and innovative learning techniques for traditional and non-traditional training and development for both onsite and remote associates.
Incumbent continually finds ways to develop relationships with outside vendors and demo outside training at no or low cost with potential vendors for Salk.
Uses and leverages social media as appropriate and in accordance with Salk policies and procedures to promote learning and development.
Conducts research and polling on best practices to help position Salk as an employer of choice overall with an emphasis on training as a benefit. Makes recommendations about those which could have measurable impact at Salk.
EDUCATION
Required:
Bachelor’s degree in psychology, organizational development, human resources, communication, education or equivalent combination of education and applicable job experience.
Preferred:
Master’s degree in business, organizational development, communication or other relevant field.
MBTI, DiSC, and/or other practitioner certifications relevant for application to a diverse audience.
EXPERIENCE
Required:
10+ years of previous experience in the design and delivery of trainings with an emphasis on complex issues facing organizations today including diversity, civility, inclusion in addition to leadership development, compliance, etc.
10+ years in a role working with a diverse employee population audience with multifaceted goals of reaching the targeted audience, successfully implementing new methods of training/development to a variety of audiences and the ability to recognize when communications could be designed to connect and engage all workplace stakeholders in furtherance of common goals.
Demonstrated experience designing and implementing learning and development programs.
Prior experience with needs assessment, evaluation development, results analysis, metrics development and expectations management.
Experience with current learning technologies and platforms; to include human capital and learning management systems.
Ability to work in fast paced, team focused environment and exhibit flexibility within changing environmental business needs.
Experience collaborating effectively with subject matter experts (SMEs) across various functions and levels of an organization.
Preferred:
Experience working in or with either an academic environment or other shared governance model where different approaches and spheres of influence are critical, is strongly preferred.
SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE & ABILITIES
Strong knowledge of instructional design, facilitation, coaching, e-learning, virtual learning, in-person learning and related best practices.
Knowledge of a wide array of diverse adult learning styles.
Able to make recommendations and offer alternatives when training is not a preferred solution for performance gaps.
Able to analyze cost/benefit of various learning approaches to determine the best solution to close the gap while managing timelines, budget and resources.
Strong analytic skills and metrics aptitude. Organized program management skills.
Ability to work with confidential and sensitive information.
Proven leadership, team-building and mentoring skills, a proven track record of building, leading and working on teams.
Excellent communication skills, ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing, to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with persons inside and outside the business. Strong public speaking skills.
Adept at facilitating communications and presenting information to small and large groups.
Needs assessment knowledge.
Ability to establish and maintain effective and cooperative working relationships with others regardless of title, rank, power dynamics, governance or other factors which may present themselves as barriers.
Ability to independently formulate long-range objectives and manage varied programs and services. Excellent critical thinking and analytical skills. Strong communication and writing skills.
Working knowledge of and the ability to apply standard theories, principles, practices, and techniques applicable to the program and/or administrative specialty to develop conclusions and make recommendations.
Working knowledge of operational and fiscal analysis and techniques. Ability to take initiative and plan, organize, coordinate, and perform work in various situations where numerous, diverse, and time sensitive demands are involved.
Skilled in research methods and the synthesis of information. Strength in the development and evaluation of policies and programs. Ability to quickly read and synthesize voluminous information quickly and comprehensively and determine its applicability/usefulness to the relevant workplace.
Ability to collect, evaluate, and interpret data to develop sound conclusions and make appropriate recommendations. Expertise in investigating and analyzing problems with broad administrative impact and implications.
Ability to anticipate problems, address them proactively and creatively and develop appropriate recommendations leading to effective, sustainable solutions.
Demonstrated ability to effectively interpret, organize, and present information and ideas in written or presentation form and use consultative and facilitation skills to gain consensus.
Skill in self-management, deadline adherence and appropriate follow up.
Intermediate to advanced knowledge of Microsoft Office products (PowerPoint, Word, Excel).
Knowledge of and skill in use of e-learning platforms and how to leverage them for various audiences.
Excellent in building and maintaining relationships with internal clients/stakeholders and external vendors.
SPECIAL CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT
Must be willing to work in an animal-related research environment.
Successful completion of the Institute’s background investigation.
Must be willing to work an adjusted schedule to support operational needs.
Must be willing to sign an employee confidentiality agreement.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
This position requires constant adjusting focus, grasping, hearing, keying, seeing, sitting, touching, feeling, analyzing, calculating, communicating, reading, reasoning, writing and working inside.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor’s legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)
Full Time
This position is responsible for the strategies around assessment, research, design, creation and delivery of learning and development programs and initiatives that are relevant, timely, relatable, and measurable so that learning is embedded into the fabric of Salk for all members of the Salk community. Planning and building momentum and support for initiatives by providing tools and avenues for supervisors to own, create/facilitate and reinforce learning through application will be critical.
The incumbent will focus first and until further notice on strategies to meet the most pressing training and development issues facing the Institute for all cohorts in alignment with leadership goals, coordinating closely with the Office of Equity & Inclusion and Human Resources to develop and present a long-term strategy for the Institute that is attainable, sustainable and measurable.
This role will identify ways of merging traditional methods of design and development of learning content and programs in a manner that is relevant and timely through approaches that address historical barriers to user engagement. The ability to be nimble and creative in terms of learning deployment and capitalizing on opportunities to develop learning champions into area trainers who can create and deliver decentralized content will be key to success.
A focus for this position will be peer engagement, interactive learning, and platforms that encourage problem solving through shared experiences to encourage learning that is social and contextual and so participants are invested in it.
This position will be expected to influence individuals at all levels of the organization so learning and development becomes relatable and the value is understood and appreciated. This function is intended to build and advocate for a training model, that demonstrates an investment in employees so continuous development and support for employees becomes an expected norm. An emphasis on access, shared information, collaboration, and productivity in a manner that recognizes travel and work commitments will all be measures of success that the offerings are relevant targeted, and intuitive.
The completion of organizational needs assessments, development and delivery of a variety of organizational development programs including leadership development, skills training, succession planning and organizational change initiatives, compliance training, e-learning, and specialized training needs such as modules/programs that support the diversity of and inclusion for, our population, are key components of this role.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
1) Needs assessment & strategic planning (35%)
Participates with members of management to identify needs and establish strategic plans and objectives for learning and development, including the development of a staffing plan and areas for cost-effective outsourcing to meet immediate needs.
Responsible for the conceptualization, design, development and execution of learning/development in support of strategic initiatives.
Evaluates and prepares a plan for effective and relevant faculty professional development taking accessibility, scheduling constraints and other perceived barriers to engagement into account.
Works in partnership with the Human Resources (HR) team, the Office of Equity & Inclusion (OEI), Institute leadership teams, the Postdoctoral Office (PDO), to identify and implement organizational development programs, processes and training initiatives to proactively address organizational development and business needs, through a variety of delivery means (e.g., live, e-learning, self-paced, etc.) as appropriate for the audience/cohort.
Works closely with the HR team on initiatives to effectuate talent management, career development and succession planning.
Identifies and implements appropriate measurement systems to ensure learning objectives are being met.
2) Training & Coaching Facilitation (25%)
Creates a bank of external coaches for Salk who can be tapped for proactive coaching as high potential faculty and administrators and those poised for promotion have access to resources prior to moving into a new role. Ensures this resource is also appropriate for incumbents when it becomes necessary for further personal growth and professional development.
Ensures delivery and facilitation of effective training in a variety of formats, including classroom, online, role-playing, group discussion, and other methods depending upon specific needs, learning styles and work-related constraints. May be the live facilitator or may identify outsourced resources or learning champions within Salk to develop/deliver training.
Works with the OEI and HR to recommend, develop and deploy learning opportunities that affirm the basic tenets of cultural advocacy and appreciation for all members of the campus and related inclusion efforts. Supports initiatives aimed to promote race relations, civility (e.g., bullying, professional conduct, bystander intervention, implicit bias, advocacy, and proactive conflict resolution).
Develops career development modules for groups at Salk that recognize the critical role of their professional cohort (e.g., lab managers) and align with retention goals.
Works with the PDO staff to develop and deploy training that supports and promotes initiatives aimed at advocacy, and proactive conflict resolution to strengthen their skills and resources and to foster career development.
Works with the CSO to develop and deploy training that supports faculty professional development to prepare them for their advancement as Salk leaders.
Develops methods, techniques, and evaluation criteria for projects, programs, and people. Helps HR and supervisors connect learning & development initiatives to performance management and evaluation.
3) Program Management (30%)
Develops and maintains relationships with a variety of stakeholders on campus and provides training support to established groups that provide direction and support to the training function. Using evaluations from participants, supervisors and colleagues, prepares and presents summary reports and recommendations for management that outline training results and impact
Develops scopes of work for outside vendor relationships in the learning and development space in collaboration with Procurement and other members of HR.
Ensures logistical support in the assessment, development, planning, marketing and execution of approved programming. Evaluates where collateral materials are beneficial and ensures their creation/delivery. Ensures that post-training evaluations are conducted. Creates and uses metrics to measure return on investment.
Ensures that the training module of the human capital management system (HCM) is maximized. Troubleshoots issues with the HCM System Manager to ensure timely, accurate use of the system for registration, cancellation, attendance, tracking and reporting.
In consultation with others who may need access to centralized training funds, prepares and manages training budget.
In coordination with the Communications Department, will propose and/or develop regular, timely, creative communications around training value strategically designed to drive engagement and interest in training and related internal initiatives. Avenues include but are not limited to the HR/Training website, Salk this Week entries, all-campus emails, etc.
Oversees, monitors and strengthens relationship with UCSD staff education so it is leveraged effectively. Networks with the UCSD academic personnel department to determine how partnerships can be forged to develop our faculty.
4) Research (10%)
Engages in research, memberships (ATD, CUPA-HR) and other means to keep abreast of best practices and continually assesses and realigns direction as appropriate for the benefit of constituents and the campus overall.
Looks for new and innovative learning techniques for traditional and non-traditional training and development for both onsite and remote associates.
Incumbent continually finds ways to develop relationships with outside vendors and demo outside training at no or low cost with potential vendors for Salk.
Uses and leverages social media as appropriate and in accordance with Salk policies and procedures to promote learning and development.
Conducts research and polling on best practices to help position Salk as an employer of choice overall with an emphasis on training as a benefit. Makes recommendations about those which could have measurable impact at Salk.
EDUCATION
Required:
Bachelor’s degree in psychology, organizational development, human resources, communication, education or equivalent combination of education and applicable job experience.
Preferred:
Master’s degree in business, organizational development, communication or other relevant field.
MBTI, DiSC, and/or other practitioner certifications relevant for application to a diverse audience.
EXPERIENCE
Required:
10+ years of previous experience in the design and delivery of trainings with an emphasis on complex issues facing organizations today including diversity, civility, inclusion in addition to leadership development, compliance, etc.
10+ years in a role working with a diverse employee population audience with multifaceted goals of reaching the targeted audience, successfully implementing new methods of training/development to a variety of audiences and the ability to recognize when communications could be designed to connect and engage all workplace stakeholders in furtherance of common goals.
Demonstrated experience designing and implementing learning and development programs.
Prior experience with needs assessment, evaluation development, results analysis, metrics development and expectations management.
Experience with current learning technologies and platforms; to include human capital and learning management systems.
Ability to work in fast paced, team focused environment and exhibit flexibility within changing environmental business needs.
Experience collaborating effectively with subject matter experts (SMEs) across various functions and levels of an organization.
Preferred:
Experience working in or with either an academic environment or other shared governance model where different approaches and spheres of influence are critical, is strongly preferred.
SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE & ABILITIES
Strong knowledge of instructional design, facilitation, coaching, e-learning, virtual learning, in-person learning and related best practices.
Knowledge of a wide array of diverse adult learning styles.
Able to make recommendations and offer alternatives when training is not a preferred solution for performance gaps.
Able to analyze cost/benefit of various learning approaches to determine the best solution to close the gap while managing timelines, budget and resources.
Strong analytic skills and metrics aptitude. Organized program management skills.
Ability to work with confidential and sensitive information.
Proven leadership, team-building and mentoring skills, a proven track record of building, leading and working on teams.
Excellent communication skills, ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing, to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with persons inside and outside the business. Strong public speaking skills.
Adept at facilitating communications and presenting information to small and large groups.
Needs assessment knowledge.
Ability to establish and maintain effective and cooperative working relationships with others regardless of title, rank, power dynamics, governance or other factors which may present themselves as barriers.
Ability to independently formulate long-range objectives and manage varied programs and services. Excellent critical thinking and analytical skills. Strong communication and writing skills.
Working knowledge of and the ability to apply standard theories, principles, practices, and techniques applicable to the program and/or administrative specialty to develop conclusions and make recommendations.
Working knowledge of operational and fiscal analysis and techniques. Ability to take initiative and plan, organize, coordinate, and perform work in various situations where numerous, diverse, and time sensitive demands are involved.
Skilled in research methods and the synthesis of information. Strength in the development and evaluation of policies and programs. Ability to quickly read and synthesize voluminous information quickly and comprehensively and determine its applicability/usefulness to the relevant workplace.
Ability to collect, evaluate, and interpret data to develop sound conclusions and make appropriate recommendations. Expertise in investigating and analyzing problems with broad administrative impact and implications.
Ability to anticipate problems, address them proactively and creatively and develop appropriate recommendations leading to effective, sustainable solutions.
Demonstrated ability to effectively interpret, organize, and present information and ideas in written or presentation form and use consultative and facilitation skills to gain consensus.
Skill in self-management, deadline adherence and appropriate follow up.
Intermediate to advanced knowledge of Microsoft Office products (PowerPoint, Word, Excel).
Knowledge of and skill in use of e-learning platforms and how to leverage them for various audiences.
Excellent in building and maintaining relationships with internal clients/stakeholders and external vendors.
SPECIAL CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT
Must be willing to work in an animal-related research environment.
Successful completion of the Institute’s background investigation.
Must be willing to work an adjusted schedule to support operational needs.
Must be willing to sign an employee confidentiality agreement.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
This position requires constant adjusting focus, grasping, hearing, keying, seeing, sitting, touching, feeling, analyzing, calculating, communicating, reading, reasoning, writing and working inside.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor’s legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)
Salk Institute for Biological Studies
10010 North Torrey Pines Road San Diego, CA
POSITION SUMMARY
The CRoPS project aims to develop crop plants that sequester more carbon via extensive root systems containing recalcitrant carbon polymers to fight climate change. A major component of this research is to phenotype plant traits for conducting genetic analysis and confirm trait changes of genetic changes.
The Research Asst III will supervise at least one Research Asst I, and work with other members of the CRoPS project and the Busch laboratory to conduct screen root traits to identify genetic mechanisms that lead to optimal root systems for carbon sequestration, and assess phenotypes of genetically engineered crop plants. The Research Assistant III is responsible for conducting large-scale phenotyping screens, as well as phenotyping of specific genotypes and lines in the support of the research goals of HPI. Phenotyping will use advanced methods such as 3D imaging and root X-ray CT. Range of duties will include, but is not limited to: conducting procedures, modifying procedures as needed, data collection and analysis, plant growth, tissue culture, and laboratory maintenance. Works on problems in which analysis of situations or data requires an in-depth evaluation of various factors. Exercises judgement within broadly defined practices and policies in selecting methods, techniques, and evaluation criteria for obtaining results. Work is done under periodic supervision of a lab coordinator and the PI.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
(80%) Plant growth, phenotyping and phenotype data analysis
Conducting assays on plants to measure plant traits
Troubleshoot or optimize assays
organization of strains and strain collections for phenotyping
using image and data analyses software to analyze plant phenotypes
store and organize research data
(20%) Lab Support
Assist PI and lab organizer in organizing lab
Assist in maintenance and creation of lab databases
Assist in ordering general lab supplies and preparing stocks and reagents for common use when needed
Attend lab meetings and assist in general problem solving
Prepare PowerPoint slides detailing results for presentation
Train new lab members on scientific protocols and use of lab databases
Supervise and instruct RA I for phenotyping and other lab activities
EXPERIENCE
Required:
Minimum 4 years of experience with laboratory techniques.
Demonstrated experience with plant phenotyping
Experience analyzing and interpreting data
Preferred:
Experience with advanced image based phenotyping (e.g. CT , laser scanning)
Experience with one or more of following plant species (corn, wheat, rice, canola, soybean, radish, clover, sorghum)
Experience with plant histology
EDUCATION
Required:
Bachelor's degree in biological science or equivalent
Preferred:
Master’s degree in biological sciences.
SKILLS AND ABILITIES
Required:
Theoretical and hands on knowledge of plant biology and phenotyping.
Ability to perform complex experiments and techniques with high levels of reliability and accuracy within time constraints.
Demonstrated ability to conduct and oversee independent research. This includes the ability to (a) develop, maintain, execute, and complete research projects of varying size and scope; (b) critically read, understand, and extract information from published medical, chemical, and biological literature to prepare background information for scientific abstracts, manuscripts, lectures, and grant proposals; (c) perform basic data and statistical analysis;
Ability to independently design experiments and debug protocols.
Ability to manage and track large numbers of samples meticulously without mixup or cross contamination.
Demonstrated ability to prioritize and work independently.
Skill in the operation and maintenance of various lab equipment.
Demonstrated ability to work independently, prioritize work and independently manage multiple, diverse and competing priorities while meeting deadlines; plan and develop meaningful objectives; and integrate multiple work initiatives into the overall department goals.
Demonstrated knowledge and experience in researching information and analyzing data to arrive at valid conclusions, recommendations, and plans of action.
SPECIAL CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT
Must be willing to work in an animal-related research environment.
Must be willing to work an adjusted schedule to support research needs.
Successful completion of the Institute’s background investigation.
Must be willing to sign a confidentiality agreement.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
This position requires constant handling, seeing, sitting, touching/feeling, analyzing, calculating, reasoning, and working inside.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor’s legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)
Full Time
POSITION SUMMARY
The CRoPS project aims to develop crop plants that sequester more carbon via extensive root systems containing recalcitrant carbon polymers to fight climate change. A major component of this research is to phenotype plant traits for conducting genetic analysis and confirm trait changes of genetic changes.
The Research Asst III will supervise at least one Research Asst I, and work with other members of the CRoPS project and the Busch laboratory to conduct screen root traits to identify genetic mechanisms that lead to optimal root systems for carbon sequestration, and assess phenotypes of genetically engineered crop plants. The Research Assistant III is responsible for conducting large-scale phenotyping screens, as well as phenotyping of specific genotypes and lines in the support of the research goals of HPI. Phenotyping will use advanced methods such as 3D imaging and root X-ray CT. Range of duties will include, but is not limited to: conducting procedures, modifying procedures as needed, data collection and analysis, plant growth, tissue culture, and laboratory maintenance. Works on problems in which analysis of situations or data requires an in-depth evaluation of various factors. Exercises judgement within broadly defined practices and policies in selecting methods, techniques, and evaluation criteria for obtaining results. Work is done under periodic supervision of a lab coordinator and the PI.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
(80%) Plant growth, phenotyping and phenotype data analysis
Conducting assays on plants to measure plant traits
Troubleshoot or optimize assays
organization of strains and strain collections for phenotyping
using image and data analyses software to analyze plant phenotypes
store and organize research data
(20%) Lab Support
Assist PI and lab organizer in organizing lab
Assist in maintenance and creation of lab databases
Assist in ordering general lab supplies and preparing stocks and reagents for common use when needed
Attend lab meetings and assist in general problem solving
Prepare PowerPoint slides detailing results for presentation
Train new lab members on scientific protocols and use of lab databases
Supervise and instruct RA I for phenotyping and other lab activities
EXPERIENCE
Required:
Minimum 4 years of experience with laboratory techniques.
Demonstrated experience with plant phenotyping
Experience analyzing and interpreting data
Preferred:
Experience with advanced image based phenotyping (e.g. CT , laser scanning)
Experience with one or more of following plant species (corn, wheat, rice, canola, soybean, radish, clover, sorghum)
Experience with plant histology
EDUCATION
Required:
Bachelor's degree in biological science or equivalent
Preferred:
Master’s degree in biological sciences.
SKILLS AND ABILITIES
Required:
Theoretical and hands on knowledge of plant biology and phenotyping.
Ability to perform complex experiments and techniques with high levels of reliability and accuracy within time constraints.
Demonstrated ability to conduct and oversee independent research. This includes the ability to (a) develop, maintain, execute, and complete research projects of varying size and scope; (b) critically read, understand, and extract information from published medical, chemical, and biological literature to prepare background information for scientific abstracts, manuscripts, lectures, and grant proposals; (c) perform basic data and statistical analysis;
Ability to independently design experiments and debug protocols.
Ability to manage and track large numbers of samples meticulously without mixup or cross contamination.
Demonstrated ability to prioritize and work independently.
Skill in the operation and maintenance of various lab equipment.
Demonstrated ability to work independently, prioritize work and independently manage multiple, diverse and competing priorities while meeting deadlines; plan and develop meaningful objectives; and integrate multiple work initiatives into the overall department goals.
Demonstrated knowledge and experience in researching information and analyzing data to arrive at valid conclusions, recommendations, and plans of action.
SPECIAL CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT
Must be willing to work in an animal-related research environment.
Must be willing to work an adjusted schedule to support research needs.
Successful completion of the Institute’s background investigation.
Must be willing to sign a confidentiality agreement.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
This position requires constant handling, seeing, sitting, touching/feeling, analyzing, calculating, reasoning, and working inside.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor’s legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)
POSITION SUMMARY
The Research Assistant III is responsible for all lab managerial duties in support of the Principal Investigator’s (PI) studies along with overseeing the maintenance of the lab mouse colony and performing experiments to assist members of the lab. Duties include performing advanced molecular biology techniques, cell culture and histology; training staff in molecular biology, cell culture, histology techniques and all other techniques as necessary; maintaining a mouse colony used by all lab members; writing animal protocols; equipment upkeep and repair; ensuring compliance with all Salk policies; managing any scientific or interpersonal issues that may arise. Incumbent is also responsible for all lab materials including plasmid DNA, DNA and custom primer data, chemical inventory list, freezer/fridge contents, and frozen tissue inventory. Assists PI with budget management, department ordering, act as lab representative/point person regarding all lab issues, and ensuring lab safety.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
(40%) Research Support
Perform various techniques in molecular biology such as: RNA or DNA extraction and analysis.
DNA extraction and analysis.
PCR and rtPCR.
Maxi preps.
Gel Electrophoresis.
Recombinant DNA techniques.
In vitro primary cell culture
Tissue dissection and processing
Cryosectioning, immunostaining and microscopy imaging
(30%) Lab Management
Manages resources/supplies
Identifies problems with the lab procedures, escalates to PI, and implements corrective action as needed.
Ensures all equipment is fully operational. Repairs equipment when possible or arranges repairs/purchase of replacement equipment. Performs regular instrument and equipment maintenance and calibration.
Provides technical expertise, answers research related, operational and Salk procedural questions.
Trains staff on specific molecular biology, cell culture, histology and related techniques.
Oversees and trains laboratory personnel in proper use of laboratory equipment and equipment maintenance.
Oversees general lab maintenance/organization, upkeep, and compliance with safety initiatives.
Manages freezer and supply inventory. Responsible for annual equipment inventory.
Manages, maintains, and oversees inventory of all lab research holdings/assets (i.e, cell lines, mouse lines, DNA plasmids, primers, etc). Maintains log of samples in -80, -20 C freezers, and 4 C refrigerators.
Coordinates/Distributes research components and animals to local or international collaborators/colleagues.
Writes laboratory animal protocols for experiments and ensures their compliance within the laboratory.
Contributes to and oversees the development of new techniques and standardized operating protocols (SOP), utilizing new tools that lead to the modification of methodology and increased quality and reliability of research.
Ensures safety information is disseminated promptly to all laboratory personnel and ensures compliance.
Informs new personnel of required safety procedures and coordinates attendance in training classes.
Inspects laboratory space for safe conditions and adherence to safety procedures.
Communicates and interacts with Salk departments (HR, RACT, PUR) and external vendors to conduct necessary lab business.
Places and approves all inventory, equipment, and animal orders while managing what funding sources to be used. Tracks spending and budget data for all laboratory supplies, equipment, and animal (purchase/upkeep) charges.
(30%) Mouse Colony Management
Oversee the organization of the lab mouse colony that is used by all researchers, maintain accurate and detailed record of animals
Perform husbandry duties including breeding and weaning
Organize genotyping information to ensure accurate identification of subjects
EXPERIENCE
Required:
Minimum 4 years’ of experience in research lab setting including experience handling mice and organizing a mouse colony
EDUCATION
Required
Bachelor's degree in biological sciences.
SKILLS AND ABILITIES
Required
Theoretical and hands on knowledge of tissue culture and molecular biology techniques.
Ability to perform highly complex experiments and techniques with high levels of reliability and accuracy within time constraints.
Ability to independently design experiments and debug protocols.
Ability to manage and track large numbers of samples meticulously without mixup or cross contamination.
Demonstrated ability to prioritize and work independently.
Skill in the operation and maintenance of various lab equipment.
Demonstrated ability to work independently, prioritize work and independently manage multiple, diverse and competing priorities while meeting deadlines; plan and develop meaningful objectives; and integrate multiple work initiatives into the overall department goals.
Demonstrated knowledge and experience in researching information and analyzing data to arrive at valid conclusions, recommendations, and plans of action.
SPECIAL CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT
Must be willing to work in an animal-related research environment.
Must be willing to work an adjusted schedule to support research needs.
Successful completion of the Institute’s background investigation.
Must be willing to sign an employee confidentiality agreement.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
This position requires constant seeing, handling, touching/feeling, analyzing, calculating, reasoning and working inside.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor’s legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)
Full Time
POSITION SUMMARY
The Research Assistant III is responsible for all lab managerial duties in support of the Principal Investigator’s (PI) studies along with overseeing the maintenance of the lab mouse colony and performing experiments to assist members of the lab. Duties include performing advanced molecular biology techniques, cell culture and histology; training staff in molecular biology, cell culture, histology techniques and all other techniques as necessary; maintaining a mouse colony used by all lab members; writing animal protocols; equipment upkeep and repair; ensuring compliance with all Salk policies; managing any scientific or interpersonal issues that may arise. Incumbent is also responsible for all lab materials including plasmid DNA, DNA and custom primer data, chemical inventory list, freezer/fridge contents, and frozen tissue inventory. Assists PI with budget management, department ordering, act as lab representative/point person regarding all lab issues, and ensuring lab safety.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
(40%) Research Support
Perform various techniques in molecular biology such as: RNA or DNA extraction and analysis.
DNA extraction and analysis.
PCR and rtPCR.
Maxi preps.
Gel Electrophoresis.
Recombinant DNA techniques.
In vitro primary cell culture
Tissue dissection and processing
Cryosectioning, immunostaining and microscopy imaging
(30%) Lab Management
Manages resources/supplies
Identifies problems with the lab procedures, escalates to PI, and implements corrective action as needed.
Ensures all equipment is fully operational. Repairs equipment when possible or arranges repairs/purchase of replacement equipment. Performs regular instrument and equipment maintenance and calibration.
Provides technical expertise, answers research related, operational and Salk procedural questions.
Trains staff on specific molecular biology, cell culture, histology and related techniques.
Oversees and trains laboratory personnel in proper use of laboratory equipment and equipment maintenance.
Oversees general lab maintenance/organization, upkeep, and compliance with safety initiatives.
Manages freezer and supply inventory. Responsible for annual equipment inventory.
Manages, maintains, and oversees inventory of all lab research holdings/assets (i.e, cell lines, mouse lines, DNA plasmids, primers, etc). Maintains log of samples in -80, -20 C freezers, and 4 C refrigerators.
Coordinates/Distributes research components and animals to local or international collaborators/colleagues.
Writes laboratory animal protocols for experiments and ensures their compliance within the laboratory.
Contributes to and oversees the development of new techniques and standardized operating protocols (SOP), utilizing new tools that lead to the modification of methodology and increased quality and reliability of research.
Ensures safety information is disseminated promptly to all laboratory personnel and ensures compliance.
Informs new personnel of required safety procedures and coordinates attendance in training classes.
Inspects laboratory space for safe conditions and adherence to safety procedures.
Communicates and interacts with Salk departments (HR, RACT, PUR) and external vendors to conduct necessary lab business.
Places and approves all inventory, equipment, and animal orders while managing what funding sources to be used. Tracks spending and budget data for all laboratory supplies, equipment, and animal (purchase/upkeep) charges.
(30%) Mouse Colony Management
Oversee the organization of the lab mouse colony that is used by all researchers, maintain accurate and detailed record of animals
Perform husbandry duties including breeding and weaning
Organize genotyping information to ensure accurate identification of subjects
EXPERIENCE
Required:
Minimum 4 years’ of experience in research lab setting including experience handling mice and organizing a mouse colony
EDUCATION
Required
Bachelor's degree in biological sciences.
SKILLS AND ABILITIES
Required
Theoretical and hands on knowledge of tissue culture and molecular biology techniques.
Ability to perform highly complex experiments and techniques with high levels of reliability and accuracy within time constraints.
Ability to independently design experiments and debug protocols.
Ability to manage and track large numbers of samples meticulously without mixup or cross contamination.
Demonstrated ability to prioritize and work independently.
Skill in the operation and maintenance of various lab equipment.
Demonstrated ability to work independently, prioritize work and independently manage multiple, diverse and competing priorities while meeting deadlines; plan and develop meaningful objectives; and integrate multiple work initiatives into the overall department goals.
Demonstrated knowledge and experience in researching information and analyzing data to arrive at valid conclusions, recommendations, and plans of action.
SPECIAL CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT
Must be willing to work in an animal-related research environment.
Must be willing to work an adjusted schedule to support research needs.
Successful completion of the Institute’s background investigation.
Must be willing to sign an employee confidentiality agreement.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
This position requires constant seeing, handling, touching/feeling, analyzing, calculating, reasoning and working inside.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor’s legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)
Salk Institute for Biological Studies
10010 North Torrey Pines Road
POSITION SUMMARY
The Electrical/Mechanical Technician IV is the highest level in the series, and is distinguished from the other Technicians in the class by the level of complexity and responsibility that is required. Under limited direction from the Assistant Director, Facilities Services, provides the most senior-level technical service/support in one of the general maintenance areas and trains lower level employees in various technical areas. May act as supervisor in the absence of the Assistant Director, Facilities Services. Incumbent responds to service calls, performs preventative and corrective maintenance in accordance with scheduled procedures. Trains lower level employees in various technical areas.
Incumbents are expected to have lead level expertise in the following areas:
Plumbing: Assembles, installs, and repairs pipes, fittings, and fixtures of heating, water, and drainage systems.
Electrical: Plans layout, installs, and repairs wiring, electrical fixtures, apparatus, and control equipment.
Central Plant Mechanical: Assures proper operation and maintenance of high temperature hot water generators, steam generators, chillers, air conditioning, exhaust fans, and other equipment.
HVAC&R:Installs and repairs industrial heating and refrigerating systems.
Machining, and Welding: Welds metal components together with brazing and variety of arc and gas welding equipment to fabricate or repair products such as machine parts, plant equipment, motors, and generators.
The incumbent acts independently and responds with acquired skill, exercising Institute and professionally established safety precautions.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
PLUMBING: (25%)
Studies building plans and working drawings to determine work aids required and sequence of installations.
Inspects structure to ascertain obstructions to be avoided to prevent weakening of structure resulting from installation of pipe.
Locates and marks position of pipe and pipe connections and passage holes for pipes in walls and floors.
Cuts openings in walls and floors to accommodate pipe and pipe fittings.
Cuts and threads pipe.
Bends pipe to required angle by use of pipe-bending machine or by placing pipe over block and bending it by hand.
Assembles and installs valves, pipe fittings, and pipes composed of metals, such as iron, steel, brass, and lead, and nonmetals, such as glass, vitrified clay, and plastic.
Joins pipes by use of screws, bolts, fittings, solder, plastic solvent, and caulks joints.
Fills pipe system with water or air and reads pressure gauges to determine whether system is leaking.
Welds holding fixtures to steel structural members.
Repairs and maintains plumbing by replacing washers in leaky faucets, mending burst pipes, and opening clogged drains.
Installs and repairs plumbing fixtures such as sinks, commodes, bathtubs, water heaters, hot water tanks, garbage disposal units, dishwashers, and water softeners.
ELECTRICIAN: (25%)
Plans new or modified installations to minimize waste of materials, provide access for future maintenance, and avoid unsightly, hazardous, and unreliable wiring, consistent with specifications and local electrical codes.
Prepares sketches showing location of wiring and equipment, or follows diagrams or blueprints, ensuring that concealed wiring is installed before completion of future walls, ceilings, and flooring.
Measures, cuts, bends, threads, assembles, and installs electrical conduit.
Pulls wiring through conduit.
Splices wires by stripping insulation from terminal leads, twisting or soldering wires together, and applying tape or terminal caps.
Connects wiring to lighting fixtures and power equipment.
Installs control and distribution apparatus such as switches, relays, and circuit-breaker panels.
Connects power cables to equipment, such as electric range or motor, and installs grounding leads.
Tests continuity of circuit to ensure electrical compatibility and safety of components with testing instruments such as ohmmeter, battery and buzzer, and oscilloscope.
Observes functioning of installed equipment or system to detect hazards and need for adjustments, relocation, or replacement.
Repairs faulty equipment or systems.
HVAC&R: (25%)
Lays out reference points for installation of structural and functional components.
Drills holes and installs mounting brackets and hangers into floor and walls of building.
Lifts or hoists and aligns components into position.
Screws, bolts, rivets, welds, and brazes parts to assemble structural and functional components such as motors, controls, switches, gauges, wiring harnesses, valves, pumps, compressors, condensers, cores, and pipes.
Cuts, threads, and connects pipe to functional components and water or power system of premises.
Pumps specified gas or fluid into system.
Starts system, observes operation, reads gauges and instruments, and adjusts mechanisms such as valves, controls, and pumps to control level of fluid, pressure, and temperature in system.
Dismantles malfunctioning systems and tests components.
Replaces or adjusts defective or worn parts to repair systems.
Insulates shells and cabinets of systems.
Installs wiring to connect components to electric power source.
MACHINING & WELDING: (10%)
Welds metal parts together using both gas welding or brazing and any combination of arc welding processes.
Performs related tasks such as thermal cutting and grinding.
Repairs broken or cracked parts, fills holes, and increases size of metal parts.
Cuts and welds steel structural members
OTHER DUTIES: (15%)
Receives requests for corrective repair work on a variety of building physical structures, equipment and system components.
Utilizes several trades’ skills, in the performance of maintenance and repair work.
Prepares routine reports and makes estimates of time and materials needed for task completion.
Prepares schematics and diagrams in laying out work areas.
Provides work direction to lower level Technicians, and may act as supervisor in the absence of the Supervisor, Facilities Services.
Checks own work and possibly work of others.
Prioritizes own weekly schedule.
Uses broad guidelines and independent judgement in resolving problems and making recommendations for improvement in processes and assigned tasks.
Trains employees on technical skills and may occasionally assist them with problem solving and technical procedures.
EXPERIENCE
Required:
5 years of experience in two or more of the following: central plant maintenance, electrical, plumbing, welding, machining and HVAC&R.
EDUCATION
Required:
High school graduate/GED
5 years of training and experience in a specialized technical area plus at least 1 year of trade or vocational education.
SKILLS AND ABILITIES
Required:
Demonstrated ability to read construction drawings, construction documentation, and electrical schematics.
Demonstrated ability to read electrical schematics.
Use ladders to gain access to work areas and to works from heights.
Cleans and paints all required areas to maintain proper, effective and safe operation.
Ability to work well independently or in a group, always exercising Institute and professionally established safety precautions.
Must be proficient with sheet metal fabrication.
Demonstrated working knowledge of applicable Federal, State and local laws and regulations.
Utilizes several trades’ skills, in the performance of maintenance and repair work.
Demonstrated working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel and email.
Strong interpersonal skills that include tact, good judgment, diplomacy, and flexibility to relate to diverse scientific research staff, faculty, executive management, administrative staff, and external contacts.
Ability to work as team member and team resource.
Ability to apply knowledge, skills and Institute policies and procedures with a high level of independence to resolve issues for customers.
SPECIAL CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT:
Post-offer physical required.
Must be willing to use ladders to provide access to work areas and works from heights.
Must be able to work overtime as needed.
Willing to sign an employee confidentiality agreement.
Satisfactory completion of the Post-offer physical required.
Must be willing to maintain First Aid/CPR/AED training/certification.
A DMV driving record background check may be required. A Class C motor vehicle license and clean driving record will be required in order to drive Institute vehicles.
OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH & SAFETY PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS:
As a safeguard for employees and animals, all FS employees may be subject to vaccines/tests/physical exams prior to working with specific animals or animal populations as required by research needs including but not limited to:
TB Testing/Clearance (every six months / twice a year)
Measles, Mumps and Rubella (proof of immunization and/or vaccination)
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
This position requires constant seeing, touching and feeling.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor’s legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)
Full Time
POSITION SUMMARY
The Electrical/Mechanical Technician IV is the highest level in the series, and is distinguished from the other Technicians in the class by the level of complexity and responsibility that is required. Under limited direction from the Assistant Director, Facilities Services, provides the most senior-level technical service/support in one of the general maintenance areas and trains lower level employees in various technical areas. May act as supervisor in the absence of the Assistant Director, Facilities Services. Incumbent responds to service calls, performs preventative and corrective maintenance in accordance with scheduled procedures. Trains lower level employees in various technical areas.
Incumbents are expected to have lead level expertise in the following areas:
Plumbing: Assembles, installs, and repairs pipes, fittings, and fixtures of heating, water, and drainage systems.
Electrical: Plans layout, installs, and repairs wiring, electrical fixtures, apparatus, and control equipment.
Central Plant Mechanical: Assures proper operation and maintenance of high temperature hot water generators, steam generators, chillers, air conditioning, exhaust fans, and other equipment.
HVAC&R:Installs and repairs industrial heating and refrigerating systems.
Machining, and Welding: Welds metal components together with brazing and variety of arc and gas welding equipment to fabricate or repair products such as machine parts, plant equipment, motors, and generators.
The incumbent acts independently and responds with acquired skill, exercising Institute and professionally established safety precautions.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
PLUMBING: (25%)
Studies building plans and working drawings to determine work aids required and sequence of installations.
Inspects structure to ascertain obstructions to be avoided to prevent weakening of structure resulting from installation of pipe.
Locates and marks position of pipe and pipe connections and passage holes for pipes in walls and floors.
Cuts openings in walls and floors to accommodate pipe and pipe fittings.
Cuts and threads pipe.
Bends pipe to required angle by use of pipe-bending machine or by placing pipe over block and bending it by hand.
Assembles and installs valves, pipe fittings, and pipes composed of metals, such as iron, steel, brass, and lead, and nonmetals, such as glass, vitrified clay, and plastic.
Joins pipes by use of screws, bolts, fittings, solder, plastic solvent, and caulks joints.
Fills pipe system with water or air and reads pressure gauges to determine whether system is leaking.
Welds holding fixtures to steel structural members.
Repairs and maintains plumbing by replacing washers in leaky faucets, mending burst pipes, and opening clogged drains.
Installs and repairs plumbing fixtures such as sinks, commodes, bathtubs, water heaters, hot water tanks, garbage disposal units, dishwashers, and water softeners.
ELECTRICIAN: (25%)
Plans new or modified installations to minimize waste of materials, provide access for future maintenance, and avoid unsightly, hazardous, and unreliable wiring, consistent with specifications and local electrical codes.
Prepares sketches showing location of wiring and equipment, or follows diagrams or blueprints, ensuring that concealed wiring is installed before completion of future walls, ceilings, and flooring.
Measures, cuts, bends, threads, assembles, and installs electrical conduit.
Pulls wiring through conduit.
Splices wires by stripping insulation from terminal leads, twisting or soldering wires together, and applying tape or terminal caps.
Connects wiring to lighting fixtures and power equipment.
Installs control and distribution apparatus such as switches, relays, and circuit-breaker panels.
Connects power cables to equipment, such as electric range or motor, and installs grounding leads.
Tests continuity of circuit to ensure electrical compatibility and safety of components with testing instruments such as ohmmeter, battery and buzzer, and oscilloscope.
Observes functioning of installed equipment or system to detect hazards and need for adjustments, relocation, or replacement.
Repairs faulty equipment or systems.
HVAC&R: (25%)
Lays out reference points for installation of structural and functional components.
Drills holes and installs mounting brackets and hangers into floor and walls of building.
Lifts or hoists and aligns components into position.
Screws, bolts, rivets, welds, and brazes parts to assemble structural and functional components such as motors, controls, switches, gauges, wiring harnesses, valves, pumps, compressors, condensers, cores, and pipes.
Cuts, threads, and connects pipe to functional components and water or power system of premises.
Pumps specified gas or fluid into system.
Starts system, observes operation, reads gauges and instruments, and adjusts mechanisms such as valves, controls, and pumps to control level of fluid, pressure, and temperature in system.
Dismantles malfunctioning systems and tests components.
Replaces or adjusts defective or worn parts to repair systems.
Insulates shells and cabinets of systems.
Installs wiring to connect components to electric power source.
MACHINING & WELDING: (10%)
Welds metal parts together using both gas welding or brazing and any combination of arc welding processes.
Performs related tasks such as thermal cutting and grinding.
Repairs broken or cracked parts, fills holes, and increases size of metal parts.
Cuts and welds steel structural members
OTHER DUTIES: (15%)
Receives requests for corrective repair work on a variety of building physical structures, equipment and system components.
Utilizes several trades’ skills, in the performance of maintenance and repair work.
Prepares routine reports and makes estimates of time and materials needed for task completion.
Prepares schematics and diagrams in laying out work areas.
Provides work direction to lower level Technicians, and may act as supervisor in the absence of the Supervisor, Facilities Services.
Checks own work and possibly work of others.
Prioritizes own weekly schedule.
Uses broad guidelines and independent judgement in resolving problems and making recommendations for improvement in processes and assigned tasks.
Trains employees on technical skills and may occasionally assist them with problem solving and technical procedures.
EXPERIENCE
Required:
5 years of experience in two or more of the following: central plant maintenance, electrical, plumbing, welding, machining and HVAC&R.
EDUCATION
Required:
High school graduate/GED
5 years of training and experience in a specialized technical area plus at least 1 year of trade or vocational education.
SKILLS AND ABILITIES
Required:
Demonstrated ability to read construction drawings, construction documentation, and electrical schematics.
Demonstrated ability to read electrical schematics.
Use ladders to gain access to work areas and to works from heights.
Cleans and paints all required areas to maintain proper, effective and safe operation.
Ability to work well independently or in a group, always exercising Institute and professionally established safety precautions.
Must be proficient with sheet metal fabrication.
Demonstrated working knowledge of applicable Federal, State and local laws and regulations.
Utilizes several trades’ skills, in the performance of maintenance and repair work.
Demonstrated working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel and email.
Strong interpersonal skills that include tact, good judgment, diplomacy, and flexibility to relate to diverse scientific research staff, faculty, executive management, administrative staff, and external contacts.
Ability to work as team member and team resource.
Ability to apply knowledge, skills and Institute policies and procedures with a high level of independence to resolve issues for customers.
SPECIAL CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT:
Post-offer physical required.
Must be willing to use ladders to provide access to work areas and works from heights.
Must be able to work overtime as needed.
Willing to sign an employee confidentiality agreement.
Satisfactory completion of the Post-offer physical required.
Must be willing to maintain First Aid/CPR/AED training/certification.
A DMV driving record background check may be required. A Class C motor vehicle license and clean driving record will be required in order to drive Institute vehicles.
OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH & SAFETY PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS:
As a safeguard for employees and animals, all FS employees may be subject to vaccines/tests/physical exams prior to working with specific animals or animal populations as required by research needs including but not limited to:
TB Testing/Clearance (every six months / twice a year)
Measles, Mumps and Rubella (proof of immunization and/or vaccination)
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
This position requires constant seeing, touching and feeling.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor’s legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)
Salk Institute for Biological Studies
10010 North Torrey Pines Road San Diego, CA
POSITION SUMMARY
This position is responsible for processing bi-weekly and semi-monthly payroll cycles. This includes balancing all earnings and deduction totals. Inspecting automated system output such as payroll registers and reports and determining and correcting out-of-balance conditions. Supervision is received from the Payroll Senior Accountant who reviews the work for attainment of objectives and adherence to policy; however, the employee is expected to exercise considerable initiative and judgement in planning and carrying out assignments. Works closely with all levels of the Salk community. Ensures confidentiality of information and sensitive documents by following operational procedures, exercising sound judgement and adhering to the confidentiality policy.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
(75%) – Payroll processing
Process in-house bi-weekly and semi-monthly payroll.
Run payroll calculation process, review all output, make necessary changes prior to closing payroll.
Print payroll checks and sort for delivery to laboratories and departments.
Review daily PARs. Calculate and enter required retroactive amounts and other changes into the payroll system.
Enter garnishments into the payroll system.
Review time management audit reports as needed; contact employees about possible errors/corrections needed; enter adjustments.
Enter tax exemptions for nonresident aliens.
Process manual checks as needed.
Obtains and tracks post-payroll (late) timesheet submissions and approvals.
Process Positive Pay exception reports from the bank when necessary.
Record and reconcile “NTS-No Timesheet” hours and reversals.
Research payroll issues, inconsistencies or other variances. Documents findings.
Respond to personnel at all levels of the organization regarding payroll matters.
Prepare Nth Reports after each bi-weekly and semi-monthly payroll.
(20%) – Auditing
Audit data entry by Human Resources to ensure all input is correct and will result in accurate payroll, worker’s comp and deduction calculations.
(5%) – Other projects/duties as assigned
EXPERIENCE
Required:
+ 2 years of payroll processing experience with an in-house payroll system.
Preferred:
Minimum of six months general accounting.
EDUCATION
Required
Associates degree or equivalent combination of education and related work experience.
SKILLS AND ABILITIES
Required
Detailed knowledge of FLSA, as well as federal and California wage and hour laws.
Knowledge of current payroll, labor, and tax regulations and practices.
Excellent organizational, analytical, time management and multi-tasking skills.
Strong attention to detail.
Ability to work against inflexible deadlines with frequent interruptions.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills appropriate for interaction with a broad array of individuals. Interpersonal skills must include tact, good judgement, diplomacy, and flexibility to relate to diverse scientific research staff, faculty, executive management, administrative staff, and external contacts.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Outlook, Word, and Excel.
Knowledge of complex in-house computerized payroll systems. Preferably combined HR/Payroll systems.
SPECIAL CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT
Must be willing to work in an animal-related research environment.
Must be willing to sign confidentiality agreement.
Satisfactory completion of the Institute’s background investigation.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
This position requires constant adjusting focus, grasping, handling, seeing, sitting, touching/feeling, reading and working inside.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor’s legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)
Full Time
POSITION SUMMARY
This position is responsible for processing bi-weekly and semi-monthly payroll cycles. This includes balancing all earnings and deduction totals. Inspecting automated system output such as payroll registers and reports and determining and correcting out-of-balance conditions. Supervision is received from the Payroll Senior Accountant who reviews the work for attainment of objectives and adherence to policy; however, the employee is expected to exercise considerable initiative and judgement in planning and carrying out assignments. Works closely with all levels of the Salk community. Ensures confidentiality of information and sensitive documents by following operational procedures, exercising sound judgement and adhering to the confidentiality policy.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
(75%) – Payroll processing
Process in-house bi-weekly and semi-monthly payroll.
Run payroll calculation process, review all output, make necessary changes prior to closing payroll.
Print payroll checks and sort for delivery to laboratories and departments.
Review daily PARs. Calculate and enter required retroactive amounts and other changes into the payroll system.
Enter garnishments into the payroll system.
Review time management audit reports as needed; contact employees about possible errors/corrections needed; enter adjustments.
Enter tax exemptions for nonresident aliens.
Process manual checks as needed.
Obtains and tracks post-payroll (late) timesheet submissions and approvals.
Process Positive Pay exception reports from the bank when necessary.
Record and reconcile “NTS-No Timesheet” hours and reversals.
Research payroll issues, inconsistencies or other variances. Documents findings.
Respond to personnel at all levels of the organization regarding payroll matters.
Prepare Nth Reports after each bi-weekly and semi-monthly payroll.
(20%) – Auditing
Audit data entry by Human Resources to ensure all input is correct and will result in accurate payroll, worker’s comp and deduction calculations.
(5%) – Other projects/duties as assigned
EXPERIENCE
Required:
+ 2 years of payroll processing experience with an in-house payroll system.
Preferred:
Minimum of six months general accounting.
EDUCATION
Required
Associates degree or equivalent combination of education and related work experience.
SKILLS AND ABILITIES
Required
Detailed knowledge of FLSA, as well as federal and California wage and hour laws.
Knowledge of current payroll, labor, and tax regulations and practices.
Excellent organizational, analytical, time management and multi-tasking skills.
Strong attention to detail.
Ability to work against inflexible deadlines with frequent interruptions.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills appropriate for interaction with a broad array of individuals. Interpersonal skills must include tact, good judgement, diplomacy, and flexibility to relate to diverse scientific research staff, faculty, executive management, administrative staff, and external contacts.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Outlook, Word, and Excel.
Knowledge of complex in-house computerized payroll systems. Preferably combined HR/Payroll systems.
SPECIAL CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT
Must be willing to work in an animal-related research environment.
Must be willing to sign confidentiality agreement.
Satisfactory completion of the Institute’s background investigation.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
This position requires constant adjusting focus, grasping, handling, seeing, sitting, touching/feeling, reading and working inside.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor’s legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)
Salk Institute for Biological Studies
10010 North Torrey Pines Road, San Diego CA
POSITION SUMMARY
The Lab Coordinator is responsible for overall lab management duties in support of the assigned Principal Investigator’s (PI) and their laboratories. Supervises and performs technical and administrative tasks. Maintains adequate inventory of materials and equipment to ensure adequate supplies for experimental needs. Responsible for pre-award and post-award services for the PI and research staff. Assists in the development of grant budgets. Maintains familiarity with federal and state grant rules and processes. Manages lab safety programs to insure compliance with all applicable regulations. Assists Investigator in personnel management. Serves as liaison to institution administrative offices. Conducts scientific research (bench work and computational), scientific project management, and data analysis as needed.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
(40%) Laboratory Administrative Management
Independently coordinate the activities of student and/or volunteer personnel.
Manage day-to-day activities within the research laboratory, including such activities as ensuring operation of essential equipment, making sure adequate supplies are available for routine experimental procedures, reviewing budgets, etc.
Ensure PI is prepared and in possession of materials and information required for meetings, conferences and other scheduled events. Oversee and participate in the distribution of communications and information to the lab group members.
Compose correspondence on subject matters that require considerable sensitivity, discretion, judgment, or negotiation in replying to inquiries, and/or presenting or requesting information. Drafts replies for PI review.
Serve as liaison with other departments including Accounting, HR, Admin Services, and Facilities Services to ensure necessary services.
Responsibility for laboratory key control.
Use spreadsheet and database software to develop and maintain a variety of databases.
Determine needs and purchase office supplies and equipment; facilitate office equipment maintenance.
Perform general administrative duties such as photocopying, filing, mail sorting and distribution, maintenance of lab bulletin boards, etc.
Develop travel itineraries for national and international meetings; arrange all aspects of travel, transportation and meeting participation (such as electronic abstract submissions) through final reimbursement.
Conference, meeting, and event planning including coordinating seminars, conferences and other meetings including site/facilities selection and procurement, catering, scheduling and speaker arrangements.
Coordinate interview scheduling and candidate visits related to the recruitment of lab staff, graduate students and postdoctoral trainees. Coordinate processing and screening of applicants with Human Resources.
(40%) Research Support
Assists laboratory staff
Performs molecular biology techniques
Performs tissue culture techniques
Performs bioinformatics analysis
Managing murine colonies
(20%) Research Funds Management and Grant Support
Manage & maintain financial expenses and reporting.
Update financial reports monthly in accord with accounting report postings.
Track/report changes in personnel / pay rates / pay distributions with reports from accounting/payroll.
Accurately reflect changes in grants and funding sources.
Use appropriate systems, forms and other tools and technologies to pre establish and monitor expenditure, process various reimbursements, and make purchases.
Calibrate the financials with accounting on a quarterly basis; meetings with accounting. Research details to explain deviations in reports
Examine reports for incorrectly posted figures and submit corrections to accounting, track changes
Manage, compile & submit grant proposals.
Identify, report and record Salk and actual submission deadlines.
Create a clear and detailed tasks lists for PI to manage application guidelines.
Prepare a draft budget, obtain PI adjustments and submit to the Grants Department for the final version.
Compile grant by deadline. Request, track, receive and adjust materials from other sources. Maintain file copy and track approval/denial for Progress Reports and Support reports.
Record financial data for funds reports.
Maintain accurate an up to date grant materials (CV/BIO, awards/funding, facilities list, etc). Create, maintain and update required documents associated with adjunct appointments of faculty. Maintain database of faculty activities for renewal of adjunct appointments.
Maintain alumni database of post trainee (postdoctoral and graduate students) work experience.
Maintain libraries of reprints and coordinate payment for any publication costs.
Create PDF files of publications for distribution to scientific community.
EXPERIENCE
Required:
4 or more years of experience as a technician or related
1 or more years laboratory management experience
Experienced in successfully interacting with a variety of people, including academics, staff, high-level executives, and members of the community from diverse cultures and backgrounds.
Preferred:
5+ years laboratory management experience
EDUCATION
Required
Bachelor’s degree in biological sciences, life sciences or related field.
Preferred
PhD or masters degree in biological sciences, life sciences or related field.
SKILLS AND ABILITIES
Required
Theoretical knowledge of biological sciences; genetic linkage analysis methods; Mendelian genetics and molecular biological techniques, including the polymerase chain reaction (PCR).
Theoretical knowledge of computerized genotyping methods.
Demonstrated ability to conduct and oversee independent research. This includes the ability to (a) develop, maintain, execute, and complete research projects of varying size and scope; (b) critically read, understand, and extract information from published medical, chemical, and biological literature to prepare background information for scientific abstracts, manuscripts, lectures, and grant proposals; (c) perform basic data and statistical analysis; and (d) produce high-quality abstracts, manuscripts, lectures, and grant applications.
Ability to independently design experiments and debug protocols.
Ability and interest in learning new scientific techniques.
Ability to manage and track large numbers of samples meticulously without mixup or cross contamination.
Demonstrated ability to prioritize and work independently.
Demonstrated knowledge and experience with both PC and MAC operating systems, standard business office equipment and commonly used software and tools, such as Microsoft Office, electronic mail, and the internet.
Strong interpersonal skills. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships; interact with all levels of management and employees across multiple departments. Ability to communicate and act as a liaison with a diverse audience of professionals. Demonstrated ability to supervise and train students and other technicians.
Knowledge of standard laboratory management and safety procedures.
Ability to analyze and interpret data and assist with writing scientific papers and grants.
Ability to review the scientific literature and apply to experimental design
Ability to make independent decisions, analyze situations, solve problems, and initiate actions for the effective management of a large and complex department.
Strong analytical and critical thinking skills to identify problems and develop innovative solutions.
Excellent written skills and knowledge of English language, including grammar, usage, spelling, and punctuation.
Excellent oral communication skills. Demonstrated ability to communicate clearly, effectively, tactfully, and patiently in person, on the telephone, and in writing to a diverse group of people (including researchers, health care providers, patients, research participants, administrators, industry representatives) in the academic, scientific, medical, and commercial communities.
Preferred :
R programming skills.
UNIX programming skills.
SPECIAL CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT
Must be willing to work in an animal-related research environment.
Must be willing to work an adjusted schedule to support research needs.
Successful completion of the Institute’s background investigation.
Must be willing to sign an employee confidentiality agreement.
PHSYCIAL REQUIREMENTS
This position requires constant standing, analyzing, communicating, reasoning and working inside.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor’s legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)
Full Time
POSITION SUMMARY
The Lab Coordinator is responsible for overall lab management duties in support of the assigned Principal Investigator’s (PI) and their laboratories. Supervises and performs technical and administrative tasks. Maintains adequate inventory of materials and equipment to ensure adequate supplies for experimental needs. Responsible for pre-award and post-award services for the PI and research staff. Assists in the development of grant budgets. Maintains familiarity with federal and state grant rules and processes. Manages lab safety programs to insure compliance with all applicable regulations. Assists Investigator in personnel management. Serves as liaison to institution administrative offices. Conducts scientific research (bench work and computational), scientific project management, and data analysis as needed.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
(40%) Laboratory Administrative Management
Independently coordinate the activities of student and/or volunteer personnel.
Manage day-to-day activities within the research laboratory, including such activities as ensuring operation of essential equipment, making sure adequate supplies are available for routine experimental procedures, reviewing budgets, etc.
Ensure PI is prepared and in possession of materials and information required for meetings, conferences and other scheduled events. Oversee and participate in the distribution of communications and information to the lab group members.
Compose correspondence on subject matters that require considerable sensitivity, discretion, judgment, or negotiation in replying to inquiries, and/or presenting or requesting information. Drafts replies for PI review.
Serve as liaison with other departments including Accounting, HR, Admin Services, and Facilities Services to ensure necessary services.
Responsibility for laboratory key control.
Use spreadsheet and database software to develop and maintain a variety of databases.
Determine needs and purchase office supplies and equipment; facilitate office equipment maintenance.
Perform general administrative duties such as photocopying, filing, mail sorting and distribution, maintenance of lab bulletin boards, etc.
Develop travel itineraries for national and international meetings; arrange all aspects of travel, transportation and meeting participation (such as electronic abstract submissions) through final reimbursement.
Conference, meeting, and event planning including coordinating seminars, conferences and other meetings including site/facilities selection and procurement, catering, scheduling and speaker arrangements.
Coordinate interview scheduling and candidate visits related to the recruitment of lab staff, graduate students and postdoctoral trainees. Coordinate processing and screening of applicants with Human Resources.
(40%) Research Support
Assists laboratory staff
Performs molecular biology techniques
Performs tissue culture techniques
Performs bioinformatics analysis
Managing murine colonies
(20%) Research Funds Management and Grant Support
Manage & maintain financial expenses and reporting.
Update financial reports monthly in accord with accounting report postings.
Track/report changes in personnel / pay rates / pay distributions with reports from accounting/payroll.
Accurately reflect changes in grants and funding sources.
Use appropriate systems, forms and other tools and technologies to pre establish and monitor expenditure, process various reimbursements, and make purchases.
Calibrate the financials with accounting on a quarterly basis; meetings with accounting. Research details to explain deviations in reports
Examine reports for incorrectly posted figures and submit corrections to accounting, track changes
Manage, compile & submit grant proposals.
Identify, report and record Salk and actual submission deadlines.
Create a clear and detailed tasks lists for PI to manage application guidelines.
Prepare a draft budget, obtain PI adjustments and submit to the Grants Department for the final version.
Compile grant by deadline. Request, track, receive and adjust materials from other sources. Maintain file copy and track approval/denial for Progress Reports and Support reports.
Record financial data for funds reports.
Maintain accurate an up to date grant materials (CV/BIO, awards/funding, facilities list, etc). Create, maintain and update required documents associated with adjunct appointments of faculty. Maintain database of faculty activities for renewal of adjunct appointments.
Maintain alumni database of post trainee (postdoctoral and graduate students) work experience.
Maintain libraries of reprints and coordinate payment for any publication costs.
Create PDF files of publications for distribution to scientific community.
EXPERIENCE
Required:
4 or more years of experience as a technician or related
1 or more years laboratory management experience
Experienced in successfully interacting with a variety of people, including academics, staff, high-level executives, and members of the community from diverse cultures and backgrounds.
Preferred:
5+ years laboratory management experience
EDUCATION
Required
Bachelor’s degree in biological sciences, life sciences or related field.
Preferred
PhD or masters degree in biological sciences, life sciences or related field.
SKILLS AND ABILITIES
Required
Theoretical knowledge of biological sciences; genetic linkage analysis methods; Mendelian genetics and molecular biological techniques, including the polymerase chain reaction (PCR).
Theoretical knowledge of computerized genotyping methods.
Demonstrated ability to conduct and oversee independent research. This includes the ability to (a) develop, maintain, execute, and complete research projects of varying size and scope; (b) critically read, understand, and extract information from published medical, chemical, and biological literature to prepare background information for scientific abstracts, manuscripts, lectures, and grant proposals; (c) perform basic data and statistical analysis; and (d) produce high-quality abstracts, manuscripts, lectures, and grant applications.
Ability to independently design experiments and debug protocols.
Ability and interest in learning new scientific techniques.
Ability to manage and track large numbers of samples meticulously without mixup or cross contamination.
Demonstrated ability to prioritize and work independently.
Demonstrated knowledge and experience with both PC and MAC operating systems, standard business office equipment and commonly used software and tools, such as Microsoft Office, electronic mail, and the internet.
Strong interpersonal skills. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships; interact with all levels of management and employees across multiple departments. Ability to communicate and act as a liaison with a diverse audience of professionals. Demonstrated ability to supervise and train students and other technicians.
Knowledge of standard laboratory management and safety procedures.
Ability to analyze and interpret data and assist with writing scientific papers and grants.
Ability to review the scientific literature and apply to experimental design
Ability to make independent decisions, analyze situations, solve problems, and initiate actions for the effective management of a large and complex department.
Strong analytical and critical thinking skills to identify problems and develop innovative solutions.
Excellent written skills and knowledge of English language, including grammar, usage, spelling, and punctuation.
Excellent oral communication skills. Demonstrated ability to communicate clearly, effectively, tactfully, and patiently in person, on the telephone, and in writing to a diverse group of people (including researchers, health care providers, patients, research participants, administrators, industry representatives) in the academic, scientific, medical, and commercial communities.
Preferred :
R programming skills.
UNIX programming skills.
SPECIAL CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT
Must be willing to work in an animal-related research environment.
Must be willing to work an adjusted schedule to support research needs.
Successful completion of the Institute’s background investigation.
Must be willing to sign an employee confidentiality agreement.
PHSYCIAL REQUIREMENTS
This position requires constant standing, analyzing, communicating, reasoning and working inside.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor’s legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)
Salk Institute for Biological Studies
100100 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA, USA
POSITION SUMMARY
Reporting to the Director, Development Services (DDS), incumbent provides specialized support to the DEV Services team and fundraising staff. Responsibilities include but are not limited to gift processing; gift acknowledgment; prospect research; data entry, clean-up and management; report writing; and administrative and fiscal support. Serves as primary database administrator for Giftmap program to track donor naming opportunities. Interacts with all levels of the organization, including senior management, faculty, donors and members of the community. Responsible for independent problem-solving and performing duties with a high level of service and the utmost courtesy and confidentiality. Must possess attention to detail, ability to maintain confidentiality, ability to meet tight deadlines and multi-task with frequent interruptions. Assists with evening and weekend events, as necessary.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Gift Processing and Data Management (50%)
Under direction of the DDS and Development and Programs Administrator (DPA), performs timely and accurate data entry and maintenance of gift records, pledges, memberships, etc. Ensures that all interested parties, including faculty and leadership, are notified of significant gifts.
Assists in creation and maintenance of gift acceptance policies, procedures and training manuals.
Reviews incoming gift activity and gift agreements to ensure timely donor acknowledgement requirements. Verifies accuracy of all gift and donor information using files, correspondence and database records.
Scans and makes copies of checks and credit card gifts and updates electronic donor files accordingly, maintaining confidentiality with payment information. Delivers checks to Finance (FIN) office, as necessary.
Prepares and distributes weekly gift summary reports for Development team. Acts as primary liaison to FIN to provide allocation information and gift reconciliation reports on a daily, weekly and monthly basis. Resolves any issues and develops and implements policies, independently or with input from DDS and DPA when necessary.
Prepares and prints standard gift acknowledgment letters and matches with corresponding gift receipt; mails to recipients. Consults with appropriate fundraising units as appropriate.
Executes special gift acknowledgement letters for Development Officer (DO) review, including honor/memorial tribute, stock, President’s letters and others as necessary. Includes inserting donor information, formatting, routing for review and mailing.
Regularly performs data entry and cleanup projects in Salesforce, including but not limited to monitoring returned mail to update addresses and updating ER department personnel information.
Monitors recent record entries to ensure that department users provide accurate and complete data into Salesforce. Follows up with unit admins to request updates and provide ongoing refresher training, as necessary.
Builds, maintains and runs low- to mid-level reports, dashboards, queries, imports, exports and lists from the database to fulfill requests and data reports (lists, mailing labels, letters). Manipulates data and formatting as needed.
Communicates in person, in writing and by phone with individuals at all levels, including board members, senior management, executive leadership, faculty, staff and members of the community.
Assists with special data update projects, as needed.
Donor Stewardship Data Administration (40%)
Serves as primary database administrator for Giftmap program to track donor naming opportunities on the Salk campus. Includes adding new naming opportunities and associated information, monitoring new entries to check for accuracy and consistency and making system updates as necessary.
Executes regular transfer of data to and from Salesforce database to ensure up-to-date information is available to department users.
Builds, maintains and runs reports for department use in strategy and planning meetings, gift proposals, etc.
Provides system training to new users. Regularly monitors data integrity report and provides policy reminders and follow-up training as necessary.
Development Services Administrative Support (10%)
Provides administrative support to DEV Services unit, including coordinating meetings and training, copying documents, running errands, preparing mailings, ordering supplies and overseeing a comprehensive filing and retrieval system.
Assists in scheduling of team meetings and Salesforce training sessions, including booking rooms, tracking RSVPs and attendance and preparing materials and equipment, as necessary.
Regularly checks unit’s supply inventory and places orders in accordance with budget allocations and Salk policies and procedures. Acts as liaison to Procurement for orders. Ensures items are received and reconciled against ledger.
Monitors unit’s office equipment, including computers and printers. Troubleshoots technical issues to determine whether additional service is required. Acts as liaison to IT and Facilities Services for all repairs and maintenance.
Oversees tracking of Development department equipment, including computers, laptops, tablets, etc. Monitors age of desktop computers to recommend candidates for new equipment as budget permits. Regularly updates log of devices assigned to each employee, and assists in off-boarding process by ensuring that all Salk equipment is accounted for before employees leave the Institute.
Prepares accounting forms, including accounts payable, independent contractors and maintenance agreements, purchase requisitions of supplies and equipment, cash advances, travel, reimbursements and budget adjustments.
Processes invoices for DEV Services unit, including checking for appropriate data (fund and account numbers). Routes for required approvals, copies as needed, sends to FIN for processing and follows up to ensure timely and accurate payment.
Completes weekly and monthly budget review and audit-ready reconciliation for DEV Services budget. Reviews posted expenses and estimates spending for remainder of the fiscal year. Ensures accuracy of all reports before seeking approval. Maintains comprehensive filing system of all financial records.
Works with DDS and ER Admin unit to develop annual budget call for DEV Services budget.
Serves as DEV Services representative at monthly administrative staff meetings to provide updates and reminders to department administrative staff members. Reports pertinent information back to DEV Services team.
Completes special projects, as assigned.
EXPERIENCE
Required:
3+ years of relevant work experience in office administration.
1+ years of relevant work experience in a fundraising environment.
Experience with basic budget reconciliation and preparing financial and expense reports.
Experience with event and meeting logistical preparation.
Strong, demonstrated organizational and administrative support experience, with ability to prioritize daily operations and projects in order to meet rigid deadlines, ensure smooth workflow and handle multiple tasks simultaneously, often working under pressure and with frequent interruptions while exhibiting extreme attention to detail and maintaining a high degree of accuracy at all times.
Experience providing strong, customer-oriented service and assistance.
Experience researching and gathering materials and information for meetings and events and drafting, editing and proofreading correspondence, briefings and reports.
Demonstrated experience in gathering, researching and analyzing information and recommending or implementing appropriate solutions.
Experience drafting, editing and proofreading correspondence, briefings and reports.
Demonstrated experience using personal computers and a wide variety of software for presentations, written communication, data processing and electronic communication.
Preferred:
Prior experience in a larger (500+) nonprofit organization.
Prior experience in gift processing and acknowledgement.
Experience using Salesforce or similar fundraising database.
EDUCATION
Required:
Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and experience
Preferred:
Salesforce Administrator certification
SKILLS AND ABILITIES
Required:
Strong demonstrated organizational skills with ability to prioritize daily operations and projects in order to meet rigid deadlines to ensure smooth workflow and handle multiple tasks simultaneously, often working under pressure with frequent interruptions while exhibiting extreme attention to detail and maintaining a high degree of accuracy at all times.
Demonstrated high degree of integrity, dependability, use of sound judgment, diplomacy and resourcefulness, with a strong work ethic.
Proven ability to work with independence, maintain confidentiality and anticipate problems and needs of department, taking necessary actions to mitigate potential negative effects and proactively assisting where possible.
Exceptional customer service capabilities and interpersonal skills to communicate and interact in a courteous, politically correct and effective manner using a high degree of tact, diplomacy and discretion while exercising good judgment with individuals at all levels in person, in writing or by phone with diverse and demanding clientele, with emphasis on flexibility and professionalism.
Excellent communication skills, including verbal and written. Ability to write and edit letters and other communications, as needed.
Ability to communicate extensively and persuasively to be collaborative, facilitative and to accomplish goals in a timely manner.
Ability to ensure confidentiality of information and sensitive documents by following operational procedures and exercising judgment in responding to requests.
Ability to make excellent decisions and to employ mature judgment under demanding conditions and/or when confronted with frequently changing priorities.
Proven ability to work with independence, maintain confidentiality and anticipate problems and needs of department, taking necessary actions to mitigate potential negative effects and proactively assisting where possible.
Ability to establish and provide successful employee training.
Ability to research and present summaries in a succinct manner using realistic expectations.
Ability to execute basic budget reconciliation and prepare financial and expense reports.
Demonstrated skill in using computer equipment and a wide variety of software packages for presentations, written communication, data processing and electronic communication (Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint and Visio).
Demonstrated experience with relational databases, and an advanced-level use of Excel formulas and spreadsheets; expertise in various related software applications.
Preferred :
Knowledge of the principles and processes of professional fundraising.
Knowledge of gift processing, gift acceptance policies and procedures and capital campaign counting.
Demonstrated knowledge of relational database concepts and complex data structures and relationships.
Ability to establish and provide successful employee training.
SPECIAL CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT
Must be willing to work in an animal-related research environment.
Satisfactory completion of the Institute’s background investigation.
Will require occasional evenings and weekends to assist with events.
Ability to work a flexible schedule, as needed.
Must be willing to sign an employee confidentiality agreement.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
This position requires constant adjusting focus, grasping, hearing, keying, seeing, sitting, talking, analyzing, calculating, communicating, reading, reasoning, writing, and working inside.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor’s legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)
Full Time
POSITION SUMMARY
Reporting to the Director, Development Services (DDS), incumbent provides specialized support to the DEV Services team and fundraising staff. Responsibilities include but are not limited to gift processing; gift acknowledgment; prospect research; data entry, clean-up and management; report writing; and administrative and fiscal support. Serves as primary database administrator for Giftmap program to track donor naming opportunities. Interacts with all levels of the organization, including senior management, faculty, donors and members of the community. Responsible for independent problem-solving and performing duties with a high level of service and the utmost courtesy and confidentiality. Must possess attention to detail, ability to maintain confidentiality, ability to meet tight deadlines and multi-task with frequent interruptions. Assists with evening and weekend events, as necessary.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Gift Processing and Data Management (50%)
Under direction of the DDS and Development and Programs Administrator (DPA), performs timely and accurate data entry and maintenance of gift records, pledges, memberships, etc. Ensures that all interested parties, including faculty and leadership, are notified of significant gifts.
Assists in creation and maintenance of gift acceptance policies, procedures and training manuals.
Reviews incoming gift activity and gift agreements to ensure timely donor acknowledgement requirements. Verifies accuracy of all gift and donor information using files, correspondence and database records.
Scans and makes copies of checks and credit card gifts and updates electronic donor files accordingly, maintaining confidentiality with payment information. Delivers checks to Finance (FIN) office, as necessary.
Prepares and distributes weekly gift summary reports for Development team. Acts as primary liaison to FIN to provide allocation information and gift reconciliation reports on a daily, weekly and monthly basis. Resolves any issues and develops and implements policies, independently or with input from DDS and DPA when necessary.
Prepares and prints standard gift acknowledgment letters and matches with corresponding gift receipt; mails to recipients. Consults with appropriate fundraising units as appropriate.
Executes special gift acknowledgement letters for Development Officer (DO) review, including honor/memorial tribute, stock, President’s letters and others as necessary. Includes inserting donor information, formatting, routing for review and mailing.
Regularly performs data entry and cleanup projects in Salesforce, including but not limited to monitoring returned mail to update addresses and updating ER department personnel information.
Monitors recent record entries to ensure that department users provide accurate and complete data into Salesforce. Follows up with unit admins to request updates and provide ongoing refresher training, as necessary.
Builds, maintains and runs low- to mid-level reports, dashboards, queries, imports, exports and lists from the database to fulfill requests and data reports (lists, mailing labels, letters). Manipulates data and formatting as needed.
Communicates in person, in writing and by phone with individuals at all levels, including board members, senior management, executive leadership, faculty, staff and members of the community.
Assists with special data update projects, as needed.
Donor Stewardship Data Administration (40%)
Serves as primary database administrator for Giftmap program to track donor naming opportunities on the Salk campus. Includes adding new naming opportunities and associated information, monitoring new entries to check for accuracy and consistency and making system updates as necessary.
Executes regular transfer of data to and from Salesforce database to ensure up-to-date information is available to department users.
Builds, maintains and runs reports for department use in strategy and planning meetings, gift proposals, etc.
Provides system training to new users. Regularly monitors data integrity report and provides policy reminders and follow-up training as necessary.
Development Services Administrative Support (10%)
Provides administrative support to DEV Services unit, including coordinating meetings and training, copying documents, running errands, preparing mailings, ordering supplies and overseeing a comprehensive filing and retrieval system.
Assists in scheduling of team meetings and Salesforce training sessions, including booking rooms, tracking RSVPs and attendance and preparing materials and equipment, as necessary.
Regularly checks unit’s supply inventory and places orders in accordance with budget allocations and Salk policies and procedures. Acts as liaison to Procurement for orders. Ensures items are received and reconciled against ledger.
Monitors unit’s office equipment, including computers and printers. Troubleshoots technical issues to determine whether additional service is required. Acts as liaison to IT and Facilities Services for all repairs and maintenance.
Oversees tracking of Development department equipment, including computers, laptops, tablets, etc. Monitors age of desktop computers to recommend candidates for new equipment as budget permits. Regularly updates log of devices assigned to each employee, and assists in off-boarding process by ensuring that all Salk equipment is accounted for before employees leave the Institute.
Prepares accounting forms, including accounts payable, independent contractors and maintenance agreements, purchase requisitions of supplies and equipment, cash advances, travel, reimbursements and budget adjustments.
Processes invoices for DEV Services unit, including checking for appropriate data (fund and account numbers). Routes for required approvals, copies as needed, sends to FIN for processing and follows up to ensure timely and accurate payment.
Completes weekly and monthly budget review and audit-ready reconciliation for DEV Services budget. Reviews posted expenses and estimates spending for remainder of the fiscal year. Ensures accuracy of all reports before seeking approval. Maintains comprehensive filing system of all financial records.
Works with DDS and ER Admin unit to develop annual budget call for DEV Services budget.
Serves as DEV Services representative at monthly administrative staff meetings to provide updates and reminders to department administrative staff members. Reports pertinent information back to DEV Services team.
Completes special projects, as assigned.
EXPERIENCE
Required:
3+ years of relevant work experience in office administration.
1+ years of relevant work experience in a fundraising environment.
Experience with basic budget reconciliation and preparing financial and expense reports.
Experience with event and meeting logistical preparation.
Strong, demonstrated organizational and administrative support experience, with ability to prioritize daily operations and projects in order to meet rigid deadlines, ensure smooth workflow and handle multiple tasks simultaneously, often working under pressure and with frequent interruptions while exhibiting extreme attention to detail and maintaining a high degree of accuracy at all times.
Experience providing strong, customer-oriented service and assistance.
Experience researching and gathering materials and information for meetings and events and drafting, editing and proofreading correspondence, briefings and reports.
Demonstrated experience in gathering, researching and analyzing information and recommending or implementing appropriate solutions.
Experience drafting, editing and proofreading correspondence, briefings and reports.
Demonstrated experience using personal computers and a wide variety of software for presentations, written communication, data processing and electronic communication.
Preferred:
Prior experience in a larger (500+) nonprofit organization.
Prior experience in gift processing and acknowledgement.
Experience using Salesforce or similar fundraising database.
EDUCATION
Required:
Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and experience
Preferred:
Salesforce Administrator certification
SKILLS AND ABILITIES
Required:
Strong demonstrated organizational skills with ability to prioritize daily operations and projects in order to meet rigid deadlines to ensure smooth workflow and handle multiple tasks simultaneously, often working under pressure with frequent interruptions while exhibiting extreme attention to detail and maintaining a high degree of accuracy at all times.
Demonstrated high degree of integrity, dependability, use of sound judgment, diplomacy and resourcefulness, with a strong work ethic.
Proven ability to work with independence, maintain confidentiality and anticipate problems and needs of department, taking necessary actions to mitigate potential negative effects and proactively assisting where possible.
Exceptional customer service capabilities and interpersonal skills to communicate and interact in a courteous, politically correct and effective manner using a high degree of tact, diplomacy and discretion while exercising good judgment with individuals at all levels in person, in writing or by phone with diverse and demanding clientele, with emphasis on flexibility and professionalism.
Excellent communication skills, including verbal and written. Ability to write and edit letters and other communications, as needed.
Ability to communicate extensively and persuasively to be collaborative, facilitative and to accomplish goals in a timely manner.
Ability to ensure confidentiality of information and sensitive documents by following operational procedures and exercising judgment in responding to requests.
Ability to make excellent decisions and to employ mature judgment under demanding conditions and/or when confronted with frequently changing priorities.
Proven ability to work with independence, maintain confidentiality and anticipate problems and needs of department, taking necessary actions to mitigate potential negative effects and proactively assisting where possible.
Ability to establish and provide successful employee training.
Ability to research and present summaries in a succinct manner using realistic expectations.
Ability to execute basic budget reconciliation and prepare financial and expense reports.
Demonstrated skill in using computer equipment and a wide variety of software packages for presentations, written communication, data processing and electronic communication (Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint and Visio).
Demonstrated experience with relational databases, and an advanced-level use of Excel formulas and spreadsheets; expertise in various related software applications.
Preferred :
Knowledge of the principles and processes of professional fundraising.
Knowledge of gift processing, gift acceptance policies and procedures and capital campaign counting.
Demonstrated knowledge of relational database concepts and complex data structures and relationships.
Ability to establish and provide successful employee training.
SPECIAL CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT
Must be willing to work in an animal-related research environment.
Satisfactory completion of the Institute’s background investigation.
Will require occasional evenings and weekends to assist with events.
Ability to work a flexible schedule, as needed.
Must be willing to sign an employee confidentiality agreement.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
This position requires constant adjusting focus, grasping, hearing, keying, seeing, sitting, talking, analyzing, calculating, communicating, reading, reasoning, writing, and working inside.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor’s legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)
Salk Institute for Biological Studies
10010 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA, USA
POSITION SUMMARY
Working under the direction of the Chief Communications Officer, and in collaboration with Communications (COMM) colleagues, Executive Leadership, and administrative offices, the Associate Director of Internal Communications is responsible for researching, evaluating planning and executing Salk’s strategic internal communications program that:
supports and strengthens connections between Salk’s leadership, faculty and employees,
fosters greater information sharing and collaboration among labs and departments,
builds community by enhancing the Institute’s cultural connectivity and furthering its efforts to foster an engaged, diverse, inclusive and welcoming workplace environment; and
advances Salk’s overarching mission to better humanity through groundbreaking research and a commitment to enhancing our collective human experience.
The candidate must be a forward-looking, strategic thinker with sound judgment and the ability to balance and successfully meet multiple competing demands and priorities of internal stakeholder groups within a relatively “flat” organizational structure, often under tight deadlines. The individual also must be an excellent writer, experienced in crafting organizational narratives and the art of storytelling, who can establish and project a consistent institutional voice and create, or facilitate the creation of, a wide range of written and multimedia content for various channels that resonates with key audiences.
The candidate will be responsible for proactively identifying and overseeing the use of internal communication channels that support the Institute’s overarching internal communications strategy through regular interaction and collaboration with various departments, faculty and staff, as well as participation in activities throughout the Institute. The individual also will support the advancement of Institute-wide initiatives and crisis communications as well as serve as a proofreader and copyeditor to ensure that all materials are consistent with Salk’s Style Guide.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Executive & Strategic Communications (35%)
Working with COMM leadership, researches, plans and develops—individually and with colleagues—original content appropriate for dissemination across a wide array of internal communications channels in support of executive leadership, faculty and department directors.
Manages the internal communications editorial calendar and the timing of strategic communications and the gathering of content to enable timely distribution of information across appropriate channels.
Working with the Chief Communications Officer, provides communication support and content development to Institute leadership throughout all stages of the process, including facilitating content review, approval and delivery.
Incumbent has primary responsibility for ensuring internal Town Hall forums—including program design, promotion and content development, speaker communication and support needs, and logistics (A/V, etc.)—are handled by the appropriate personnel. Facilitates any rehearsals and oversees all aspects of the day of program.
Provides ongoing review and evaluation of communication messages, campaigns and strategies for their efficacy and provides recommendations and actions to make appropriate adjustments that incorporate communication best practices.
Content Development and Distribution (25%)
Serves as the primary storyteller to engage Salk’s diverse internal community by sharing timely, relevant information in a compelling way.
Proposes, designs and executes materials on specific communications strategies aimed at internal stakeholders for key initiatives, events, news, classes and announcements with the goal of garnering attention to raise awareness and/or result in action.
Develops communications strategies based on current best practices in the field, detailing key messages for use with internal audiences.
Independently develops content and stories to drive greater awareness around specific issues or further engagement. Includes identifying, reporting and writing news items, special features, profiles, Q&As and other stories about the Salk community for the Salk community.
Creates, manages and compiles content for Salk This Week e-newsletter, intranet content, email notices, bulletin board postings and others.
Helps set digital strategy for Salk intranet, including videos, website updates and e-newsletters.
Serves as primary author for campus-wide emails, including developing, writing and editing internal communications to Salk employees.
Ensures that timing of a wide array of communications is appropriate by virtue of their relationship with one another, impact on one another, volume of messaging to the community and the importance of the motivating factors for the respective communication(s).
Develops and coordinates internal communications messages ensuring consistency with external communication strategy and messaging.
Proactively develops and manages content and editorial calendars to ensure information flows through email, events, chat, content and other activities within approved timelines and approved budgets.
Storyboards and assists with videos, presentations and other multimedia for Institute departments and internal events (e.g., board meetings, chair celebrations, staff recognition events, etc.).
In conjunction with COMM leadership, develops internal communications policies, both for standard communications and those connected to Salk’s Campaign for the Future.
Participates in cross-campus internal working groups to provide strategic input. Recommends involvement where identified needs for internal communications exist. Attends leadership meetings when requested.
Serves as the primary liaison for internal communications with internal administrative offices (e.g., Postdoctoral Office, OEI, HR), committees and Salk executive leadership to develop strategy and support their communication priorities and goals.
Drafts, edits or rewrites content from others for publications, newsletters, reports, presentations and other materials ensuring that it is consistent and compelling.
Works in conjunction with the digital team to facilitate processes for timely publication of content on intranet and other internal outlets.
Identifies opportunities to use external channels of communications such as video, social media, bulletin boards and others for promoting Salk messaging.
Responsible for the distribution via various methods of internal communications collateral such as posters, postcards, publications, etc.
Employee Engagement Activities (15%)
Attends events and meetings across campus to identify content ideas and to gather information and specific details on news items relevant for distribution to the Salk community.
Provides communications support for community initiatives and other employee engagement activities. Proactively suggests areas for consideration to enhance communication efforts (e.g., timing, medium, etc.).
Tracks and reports online and digital metrics to measure employee engagement with content and to use agreed upon metrics to shape editorial content decisions. Meets with stakeholders and COMM leadership team to change direction as appropriate.
Working with stakeholders, and with sensitivity to confidentiality and anonymity considerations, engages third parties or uses internally available technology to develop surveys, distribute content, evaluate resultant data and to measure the effectiveness of messaging for engagement or other purposes. Ensures follow-up communications and other activities are handled in accordance with standard operating procedures.
Project Management (15%)
Supports the day-to-day management of internal communication features on the Salk intranet.
Works with A/V and videography personnel to develop non-print solutions to engage the internal community and support initiatives.
Establishes best practices across the organization by conducting gap analysis of existing processes, identifying needed changes and documenting approved Standard Operating Procedures.
Maintains editorial and publishing calendars and uses other project management tools to coordinate deadlines of the development, editing, approval and distribution of internal messaging, emails and other notifications.
Works with the Communications Projects Administrator to ensure Communications materials are proofed in a timely fashion.
Assists with internal and external special event support and media relations as needed and as other priorities allow.
Copyediting and Proofing Salk Communications (10%)
Edits, reviews and rewrites various types of content developed with or created by internal clients to ensure a consistent voice, tone and style of communication to ensure the high-quality content and grammatical correctness, rewriting as needed.
Assists in copyediting material—including but not limited to internal print and electronic content; executive communications; material from a variety of departments; and other publications—for spelling, grammar, style, accuracy, and consistency according to Institute style.
Communicates with content creators and project leads resolve inconsistencies in content and/or style.
Proofs layout and coordinates with applicable staff to ensure all Salk materials are accurate, clear and adheres to Salk style.
Helps to update and maintain the Salk Style Guide.
EXPERIENCE
Required:
A minimum of 7 years of experience working in internal communications, general communications public relations, or related field.
Experience in a role that requires strategic development and best practice knowledge sharing/recommendations to broad stakeholders about effective internal communications
experience that demonstrates creativity, expansive thinking and an understanding of the criticality of narrative and storytelling.
Experience providing communications support to executive leadership and directly supporting strategic internal initiatives.
Experience developing and distributing digital content.
Demonstrated experience in utilizing various computer software applications for word processing and desktop publishing.
Extensive experience authoring, editing and proofreading communications.
Experience working with a diverse population utilizing best practices in internal communications to engage with them.
Preferred:
Prior work experience in a larger (500+) nonprofit organization
Experience working in a shared governance organization.
EDUCATION
Required:
Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Journalism or Public Relations, or other academic background, or an equivalent combination of education.
SKILLS AND ABILITIES
Required:
Demonstrated mastery of the English language and strong communication skills, including composition (spelling and grammar), editing and proofreading. Skill to draft and edit correspondence, articles and other copy.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills for effective communication and presentation to stakeholders.
The ability to develop and direct effective and comprehensive communication strategies for a broad array of internal clients and stakeholders.
Strategic thinker with excellent judgment.
Excellent organizational and project management skills with ability to prioritize daily operations in order to meet rigid deadlines to ensure smooth workflow and manage and execute multiple projects simultaneously, often working under pressure with frequent interruptions.
Ability to bring creativity and innovation to internal communication efforts.
Exceptional interpersonal skills to communicate and interact in a positive, politically correct and effective manner with diverse and demanding clientele, using a high degree of tact, diplomacy and discretion, with emphasis on flexibility and professionalism.
Ability to ensure confidentiality of information and sensitive documents by following operational procedures and exercising judgment in responding to requests.
Fluency in Microsoft Office Suite, especially Word, PowerPoint and Outlook.
Demonstrated ability to work under tight deadlines, respond to dynamic Institutional needs in a timely manner and to effectively respond to editorial comments.
Ability to independently coordinate and prioritize multiple projects in a fast-paced environment, as well as the ability to work with individuals from multiple backgrounds and areas of expertise.
Personable and able to communicate with department heads, scientists and other stakeholders in a positive, productive manner.
Ability to be goal-oriented, self-motivated, reliable, detail-oriented, articulate and poised; and to possess personal integrity and sound judgment.
Knowledge of AP and Chicago Writing Styles.
Preferred:
Knowledge of project management software programs (e.g., Asana, Basecamp).
Familiarity using online tools like SurveyMonkey and intranet systems
SPECIAL CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT
Must be willing to work in an animal-related research environment.
Will require occasional evenings and weekends to assist with events.
Satisfactory completion of the Institute’s background investigation.
Must be willing to sign an employee confidentiality agreement.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
This position requires constant adjusting focus, grasping, hearing, keying, seeing, sitting, talking, analyzing, calculating, communicating, reading, reasoning, writing, and working inside.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor’s legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)
Full Time
POSITION SUMMARY
Working under the direction of the Chief Communications Officer, and in collaboration with Communications (COMM) colleagues, Executive Leadership, and administrative offices, the Associate Director of Internal Communications is responsible for researching, evaluating planning and executing Salk’s strategic internal communications program that:
supports and strengthens connections between Salk’s leadership, faculty and employees,
fosters greater information sharing and collaboration among labs and departments,
builds community by enhancing the Institute’s cultural connectivity and furthering its efforts to foster an engaged, diverse, inclusive and welcoming workplace environment; and
advances Salk’s overarching mission to better humanity through groundbreaking research and a commitment to enhancing our collective human experience.
The candidate must be a forward-looking, strategic thinker with sound judgment and the ability to balance and successfully meet multiple competing demands and priorities of internal stakeholder groups within a relatively “flat” organizational structure, often under tight deadlines. The individual also must be an excellent writer, experienced in crafting organizational narratives and the art of storytelling, who can establish and project a consistent institutional voice and create, or facilitate the creation of, a wide range of written and multimedia content for various channels that resonates with key audiences.
The candidate will be responsible for proactively identifying and overseeing the use of internal communication channels that support the Institute’s overarching internal communications strategy through regular interaction and collaboration with various departments, faculty and staff, as well as participation in activities throughout the Institute. The individual also will support the advancement of Institute-wide initiatives and crisis communications as well as serve as a proofreader and copyeditor to ensure that all materials are consistent with Salk’s Style Guide.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Executive & Strategic Communications (35%)
Working with COMM leadership, researches, plans and develops—individually and with colleagues—original content appropriate for dissemination across a wide array of internal communications channels in support of executive leadership, faculty and department directors.
Manages the internal communications editorial calendar and the timing of strategic communications and the gathering of content to enable timely distribution of information across appropriate channels.
Working with the Chief Communications Officer, provides communication support and content development to Institute leadership throughout all stages of the process, including facilitating content review, approval and delivery.
Incumbent has primary responsibility for ensuring internal Town Hall forums—including program design, promotion and content development, speaker communication and support needs, and logistics (A/V, etc.)—are handled by the appropriate personnel. Facilitates any rehearsals and oversees all aspects of the day of program.
Provides ongoing review and evaluation of communication messages, campaigns and strategies for their efficacy and provides recommendations and actions to make appropriate adjustments that incorporate communication best practices.
Content Development and Distribution (25%)
Serves as the primary storyteller to engage Salk’s diverse internal community by sharing timely, relevant information in a compelling way.
Proposes, designs and executes materials on specific communications strategies aimed at internal stakeholders for key initiatives, events, news, classes and announcements with the goal of garnering attention to raise awareness and/or result in action.
Develops communications strategies based on current best practices in the field, detailing key messages for use with internal audiences.
Independently develops content and stories to drive greater awareness around specific issues or further engagement. Includes identifying, reporting and writing news items, special features, profiles, Q&As and other stories about the Salk community for the Salk community.
Creates, manages and compiles content for Salk This Week e-newsletter, intranet content, email notices, bulletin board postings and others.
Helps set digital strategy for Salk intranet, including videos, website updates and e-newsletters.
Serves as primary author for campus-wide emails, including developing, writing and editing internal communications to Salk employees.
Ensures that timing of a wide array of communications is appropriate by virtue of their relationship with one another, impact on one another, volume of messaging to the community and the importance of the motivating factors for the respective communication(s).
Develops and coordinates internal communications messages ensuring consistency with external communication strategy and messaging.
Proactively develops and manages content and editorial calendars to ensure information flows through email, events, chat, content and other activities within approved timelines and approved budgets.
Storyboards and assists with videos, presentations and other multimedia for Institute departments and internal events (e.g., board meetings, chair celebrations, staff recognition events, etc.).
In conjunction with COMM leadership, develops internal communications policies, both for standard communications and those connected to Salk’s Campaign for the Future.
Participates in cross-campus internal working groups to provide strategic input. Recommends involvement where identified needs for internal communications exist. Attends leadership meetings when requested.
Serves as the primary liaison for internal communications with internal administrative offices (e.g., Postdoctoral Office, OEI, HR), committees and Salk executive leadership to develop strategy and support their communication priorities and goals.
Drafts, edits or rewrites content from others for publications, newsletters, reports, presentations and other materials ensuring that it is consistent and compelling.
Works in conjunction with the digital team to facilitate processes for timely publication of content on intranet and other internal outlets.
Identifies opportunities to use external channels of communications such as video, social media, bulletin boards and others for promoting Salk messaging.
Responsible for the distribution via various methods of internal communications collateral such as posters, postcards, publications, etc.
Employee Engagement Activities (15%)
Attends events and meetings across campus to identify content ideas and to gather information and specific details on news items relevant for distribution to the Salk community.
Provides communications support for community initiatives and other employee engagement activities. Proactively suggests areas for consideration to enhance communication efforts (e.g., timing, medium, etc.).
Tracks and reports online and digital metrics to measure employee engagement with content and to use agreed upon metrics to shape editorial content decisions. Meets with stakeholders and COMM leadership team to change direction as appropriate.
Working with stakeholders, and with sensitivity to confidentiality and anonymity considerations, engages third parties or uses internally available technology to develop surveys, distribute content, evaluate resultant data and to measure the effectiveness of messaging for engagement or other purposes. Ensures follow-up communications and other activities are handled in accordance with standard operating procedures.
Project Management (15%)
Supports the day-to-day management of internal communication features on the Salk intranet.
Works with A/V and videography personnel to develop non-print solutions to engage the internal community and support initiatives.
Establishes best practices across the organization by conducting gap analysis of existing processes, identifying needed changes and documenting approved Standard Operating Procedures.
Maintains editorial and publishing calendars and uses other project management tools to coordinate deadlines of the development, editing, approval and distribution of internal messaging, emails and other notifications.
Works with the Communications Projects Administrator to ensure Communications materials are proofed in a timely fashion.
Assists with internal and external special event support and media relations as needed and as other priorities allow.
Copyediting and Proofing Salk Communications (10%)
Edits, reviews and rewrites various types of content developed with or created by internal clients to ensure a consistent voice, tone and style of communication to ensure the high-quality content and grammatical correctness, rewriting as needed.
Assists in copyediting material—including but not limited to internal print and electronic content; executive communications; material from a variety of departments; and other publications—for spelling, grammar, style, accuracy, and consistency according to Institute style.
Communicates with content creators and project leads resolve inconsistencies in content and/or style.
Proofs layout and coordinates with applicable staff to ensure all Salk materials are accurate, clear and adheres to Salk style.
Helps to update and maintain the Salk Style Guide.
EXPERIENCE
Required:
A minimum of 7 years of experience working in internal communications, general communications public relations, or related field.
Experience in a role that requires strategic development and best practice knowledge sharing/recommendations to broad stakeholders about effective internal communications
experience that demonstrates creativity, expansive thinking and an understanding of the criticality of narrative and storytelling.
Experience providing communications support to executive leadership and directly supporting strategic internal initiatives.
Experience developing and distributing digital content.
Demonstrated experience in utilizing various computer software applications for word processing and desktop publishing.
Extensive experience authoring, editing and proofreading communications.
Experience working with a diverse population utilizing best practices in internal communications to engage with them.
Preferred:
Prior work experience in a larger (500+) nonprofit organization
Experience working in a shared governance organization.
EDUCATION
Required:
Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Journalism or Public Relations, or other academic background, or an equivalent combination of education.
SKILLS AND ABILITIES
Required:
Demonstrated mastery of the English language and strong communication skills, including composition (spelling and grammar), editing and proofreading. Skill to draft and edit correspondence, articles and other copy.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills for effective communication and presentation to stakeholders.
The ability to develop and direct effective and comprehensive communication strategies for a broad array of internal clients and stakeholders.
Strategic thinker with excellent judgment.
Excellent organizational and project management skills with ability to prioritize daily operations in order to meet rigid deadlines to ensure smooth workflow and manage and execute multiple projects simultaneously, often working under pressure with frequent interruptions.
Ability to bring creativity and innovation to internal communication efforts.
Exceptional interpersonal skills to communicate and interact in a positive, politically correct and effective manner with diverse and demanding clientele, using a high degree of tact, diplomacy and discretion, with emphasis on flexibility and professionalism.
Ability to ensure confidentiality of information and sensitive documents by following operational procedures and exercising judgment in responding to requests.
Fluency in Microsoft Office Suite, especially Word, PowerPoint and Outlook.
Demonstrated ability to work under tight deadlines, respond to dynamic Institutional needs in a timely manner and to effectively respond to editorial comments.
Ability to independently coordinate and prioritize multiple projects in a fast-paced environment, as well as the ability to work with individuals from multiple backgrounds and areas of expertise.
Personable and able to communicate with department heads, scientists and other stakeholders in a positive, productive manner.
Ability to be goal-oriented, self-motivated, reliable, detail-oriented, articulate and poised; and to possess personal integrity and sound judgment.
Knowledge of AP and Chicago Writing Styles.
Preferred:
Knowledge of project management software programs (e.g., Asana, Basecamp).
Familiarity using online tools like SurveyMonkey and intranet systems
SPECIAL CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT
Must be willing to work in an animal-related research environment.
Will require occasional evenings and weekends to assist with events.
Satisfactory completion of the Institute’s background investigation.
Must be willing to sign an employee confidentiality agreement.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
This position requires constant adjusting focus, grasping, hearing, keying, seeing, sitting, talking, analyzing, calculating, communicating, reading, reasoning, writing, and working inside.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor’s legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)
Salk Institute for Biological Studies
10010 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA, USA
POSITION SUMMARY
Reporting directly to the Vice President, External Relations (VPER), the Senior Director, External Relations (SDER) will have the responsibility of building a major and principal gifts program ($100,000+ gifts) for individual, foundation and corporate donors primarily to the Harnessing Plants Initiative (HPI) at the Salk Institute for Biological Studies, as well as other initiatives and fundraising programs as assigned. The SDER will create strategies and implement plans for the identification, cultivation, solicitation and tracking of prospects and donors of 6-, 7- and 8-figure potential. Working closely with the VPER, External Relations colleagues, key faculty and senior administrators, the SDER will pursue fundraising strategies to gain access to high net worth donors and prospects on a local, national and potentially international level, and may be expected to travel to represent the Institute. The SDER will supervise and mentor a team of three front-line fundraisers, one Development Specialist and one Development Coordinator.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Portfolio Management (80%)
Working with the VPER, creates a plan to identify, cultivate and solicit individuals of a high net worth and demonstrated capacity in San Diego and other cities with Salk constituents and potential prospects for HPI. Sets clear annual fundraising goals in the 6-, 7- and 8-figure range and uses established plan to support and meet goals.
Works with Foundation Relations team to develop strategies for identifying and securing principal gifts from assigned foundations.
Creates and implements exclusive programs and pipeline-building events centered on HPI and other scientific priorities of the Institute that further the engagement of high net worth prospects with the Salk.
Works collaboratively with the VPER, senior faculty, the Senior VP of Finance and Administration (SrVP) and the President to provide greatest exposure of the Institute leadership to the prospect/donor base.
Builds a personal prospect portfolio and establishes annual fundraising benchmarks and goals, both individual and team, by which achievement can be measured.
Works with Director, Development Services and the Prospect Research Analyst to explore new methods of prospect identification and cultivation.
Supports the development of short-term and long-range cultivation strategies and solicitation timelines for major gift prospects.
Serves as Salk ambassador in community, introducing and engaging contacts and network with the Institute, connecting them with programmatic entry points. Works up pipeline strategically and deliberately.
Identifies and cultivates strategic corporate partnerships for the Institute.
Prepares proposals and solicitation materials, as needed.
Strategically designs and arranges appropriate opportunities for the VPER, the SrVP, the President and senior faculty to meet with donors and volunteers; designs interactions to increase interest in and support of the Salk initiatives.
Works collaboratively with Communications, Planned Giving, Annual Giving and Foundation Relations to create strategies that ensure consistent and seamless best practices in relation to donors.
Works with Donor Relations to create and implement a successful stewardship program to ensure regular contact with major donors through various activities and communications. Extends the courtesies of the Institute to donors and volunteers as appropriate. Provides vehicles for donors’ continued awareness of current needs and objectives in order to encourage continued giving.
Works collaboratively with Development Services to ensure planning and implementation are based on best available research and activities are efficiently and effectively tracked for pipeline development.
Supervision and Program Management (20%)
Provides supervision and mentoring to the Director, Annual Giving, Director, Special Giving, Associate Director, External Relations, Development Specialist, and Development Coordinator. Additional supervisory responsibilities may evolve.
Provides oversight of the programs and events of entire team purview.
Provides project management, direction and fundraising expertise for Salk, including prospect identification, qualification, cultivation, solicitation and stewardship. Designs appropriate strategies to achieve goals and provide reports on fundraising for specific projects.
Working with the Senior Director, External Relations Administration, creates and maintains a strategic budget plan that uses allocated resources most advantageously.
Participates in External Relations Senior Management Team and Frontline Fundraisers meetings on a regular basis.
Represents External Relations on occasional Institute-wide committees.
Develops and maintains a climate supportive of skill and knowledge enhancement; communicates career development opportunities to staff.
Screens applications, interviews candidates and either makes selection decisions or recommends individuals for hire.
Trains and assigns work to new and continuing employees. Provides guidance on performance standards and Institute policies and procedures. Independently conducts performance evaluations, including communication with subordinate.
Makes recommendations for employee salary increases, bonuses, and promotions.
Determines what discipline should be imposed for subordinates, with authority to apply such.
EXPERIENCE
Required:
7+ years’ experience in development, with significant history of major gifts work and achievement. This includes working with the public in cultivation, gift solicitations, stewardship and donor recognition.
Demonstrated success at raising major gifts ($100,000+) in development and implementation of strategic solicitation plans that incorporate a concise definition of goals, targeted audiences and strategies in line with an institution’s goals and initiatives.
Proven success in writing proposals directed to individuals, foundations and corporations.
Demonstrated knowledge in the technique of donor prospect research with the ability to extract the pertinent/critical information from various sources.
5+ years’ experience with supervision and budget management.
Preferred:
Knowledge of foundational research and experience in fundraising for biomedical or health related research.
Prior experience in a larger (500+) non-profit organization.
EDUCATION
Required
Bachelor's degree from a fully accredited academic institution.
SKILLS AND ABILITIES
Required
Demonstrated knowledge, accountability and comprehension skills to strategically plan and determine priorities for projects, programs and activities appropriate to major gift fundraising.
Demonstrated ability to develop and implement persuasive cultivation ideas and techniques for prospects and donors.
Demonstrated knowledge of sophisticated electronic databases, gift recording and accounting systems used for institutional fundraising programs.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with excellent grammar and syntax usage; ability to make presentations to constituents.
Ability to inspire confidence by displaying a strong sense of ethical conduct that will effectively motivate and persuade diverse groups.
Demonstrated ability to maintain confidentiality and to use good judgment, discretion and sensitivity while handling development issues.
Good interpersonal skills, self-confidence and ability to be flexible and to manage complex situations.
Ability and willingness to travel.
SPECIAL CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT
Must have access to reliable transportation and a California driver's license.
Occasional evening and weekend work is required to attend donor events.
Travel is required.
Must be willing to work in an animal-related research environment.
Satisfactory completion of the lnstitute's background investigation.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
This position requires constant adjusting focus, grasping, hearing, keying, seeing, sitting, talking, analyzing, calculating, communicating, reading, reasoning, writing and working inside.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor’s legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)
Full Time
POSITION SUMMARY
Reporting directly to the Vice President, External Relations (VPER), the Senior Director, External Relations (SDER) will have the responsibility of building a major and principal gifts program ($100,000+ gifts) for individual, foundation and corporate donors primarily to the Harnessing Plants Initiative (HPI) at the Salk Institute for Biological Studies, as well as other initiatives and fundraising programs as assigned. The SDER will create strategies and implement plans for the identification, cultivation, solicitation and tracking of prospects and donors of 6-, 7- and 8-figure potential. Working closely with the VPER, External Relations colleagues, key faculty and senior administrators, the SDER will pursue fundraising strategies to gain access to high net worth donors and prospects on a local, national and potentially international level, and may be expected to travel to represent the Institute. The SDER will supervise and mentor a team of three front-line fundraisers, one Development Specialist and one Development Coordinator.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Portfolio Management (80%)
Working with the VPER, creates a plan to identify, cultivate and solicit individuals of a high net worth and demonstrated capacity in San Diego and other cities with Salk constituents and potential prospects for HPI. Sets clear annual fundraising goals in the 6-, 7- and 8-figure range and uses established plan to support and meet goals.
Works with Foundation Relations team to develop strategies for identifying and securing principal gifts from assigned foundations.
Creates and implements exclusive programs and pipeline-building events centered on HPI and other scientific priorities of the Institute that further the engagement of high net worth prospects with the Salk.
Works collaboratively with the VPER, senior faculty, the Senior VP of Finance and Administration (SrVP) and the President to provide greatest exposure of the Institute leadership to the prospect/donor base.
Builds a personal prospect portfolio and establishes annual fundraising benchmarks and goals, both individual and team, by which achievement can be measured.
Works with Director, Development Services and the Prospect Research Analyst to explore new methods of prospect identification and cultivation.
Supports the development of short-term and long-range cultivation strategies and solicitation timelines for major gift prospects.
Serves as Salk ambassador in community, introducing and engaging contacts and network with the Institute, connecting them with programmatic entry points. Works up pipeline strategically and deliberately.
Identifies and cultivates strategic corporate partnerships for the Institute.
Prepares proposals and solicitation materials, as needed.
Strategically designs and arranges appropriate opportunities for the VPER, the SrVP, the President and senior faculty to meet with donors and volunteers; designs interactions to increase interest in and support of the Salk initiatives.
Works collaboratively with Communications, Planned Giving, Annual Giving and Foundation Relations to create strategies that ensure consistent and seamless best practices in relation to donors.
Works with Donor Relations to create and implement a successful stewardship program to ensure regular contact with major donors through various activities and communications. Extends the courtesies of the Institute to donors and volunteers as appropriate. Provides vehicles for donors’ continued awareness of current needs and objectives in order to encourage continued giving.
Works collaboratively with Development Services to ensure planning and implementation are based on best available research and activities are efficiently and effectively tracked for pipeline development.
Supervision and Program Management (20%)
Provides supervision and mentoring to the Director, Annual Giving, Director, Special Giving, Associate Director, External Relations, Development Specialist, and Development Coordinator. Additional supervisory responsibilities may evolve.
Provides oversight of the programs and events of entire team purview.
Provides project management, direction and fundraising expertise for Salk, including prospect identification, qualification, cultivation, solicitation and stewardship. Designs appropriate strategies to achieve goals and provide reports on fundraising for specific projects.
Working with the Senior Director, External Relations Administration, creates and maintains a strategic budget plan that uses allocated resources most advantageously.
Participates in External Relations Senior Management Team and Frontline Fundraisers meetings on a regular basis.
Represents External Relations on occasional Institute-wide committees.
Develops and maintains a climate supportive of skill and knowledge enhancement; communicates career development opportunities to staff.
Screens applications, interviews candidates and either makes selection decisions or recommends individuals for hire.
Trains and assigns work to new and continuing employees. Provides guidance on performance standards and Institute policies and procedures. Independently conducts performance evaluations, including communication with subordinate.
Makes recommendations for employee salary increases, bonuses, and promotions.
Determines what discipline should be imposed for subordinates, with authority to apply such.
EXPERIENCE
Required:
7+ years’ experience in development, with significant history of major gifts work and achievement. This includes working with the public in cultivation, gift solicitations, stewardship and donor recognition.
Demonstrated success at raising major gifts ($100,000+) in development and implementation of strategic solicitation plans that incorporate a concise definition of goals, targeted audiences and strategies in line with an institution’s goals and initiatives.
Proven success in writing proposals directed to individuals, foundations and corporations.
Demonstrated knowledge in the technique of donor prospect research with the ability to extract the pertinent/critical information from various sources.
5+ years’ experience with supervision and budget management.
Preferred:
Knowledge of foundational research and experience in fundraising for biomedical or health related research.
Prior experience in a larger (500+) non-profit organization.
EDUCATION
Required
Bachelor's degree from a fully accredited academic institution.
SKILLS AND ABILITIES
Required
Demonstrated knowledge, accountability and comprehension skills to strategically plan and determine priorities for projects, programs and activities appropriate to major gift fundraising.
Demonstrated ability to develop and implement persuasive cultivation ideas and techniques for prospects and donors.
Demonstrated knowledge of sophisticated electronic databases, gift recording and accounting systems used for institutional fundraising programs.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with excellent grammar and syntax usage; ability to make presentations to constituents.
Ability to inspire confidence by displaying a strong sense of ethical conduct that will effectively motivate and persuade diverse groups.
Demonstrated ability to maintain confidentiality and to use good judgment, discretion and sensitivity while handling development issues.
Good interpersonal skills, self-confidence and ability to be flexible and to manage complex situations.
Ability and willingness to travel.
SPECIAL CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT
Must have access to reliable transportation and a California driver's license.
Occasional evening and weekend work is required to attend donor events.
Travel is required.
Must be willing to work in an animal-related research environment.
Satisfactory completion of the lnstitute's background investigation.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
This position requires constant adjusting focus, grasping, hearing, keying, seeing, sitting, talking, analyzing, calculating, communicating, reading, reasoning, writing and working inside.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor’s legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)