California Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit Coordinator

Natural Resources and Science Department

557639

Close Date: June 3rd, 2026

 

At Cal Poly Humboldt, bold hearts and open minds shape the future.

Founded in 1913, Cal Poly Humboldt began as a small college for teachers. Today Humboldt has grown into a comprehensive university with rigorous science and liberal arts programs. Designated a polytechnic in 2022, Cal Poly Humboldt provides hands-on, impactful educational opportunities that lead to meaningful, measurable outcomes for the individual, for the state, and the world.

 

Cal Poly Humboldt is proud to have more than 6,000 students of all backgrounds spread across 61 majors, 13 graduate programs, and 4 credential programs — all of whom contribute passion and creativity within their fields and set the stage for a future grounded in equity and sustainability. Hands-on learning, inspired teaching, ground-breaking research, and thought-provoking creative activity happen daily at Humboldt.

 

Finding a better future is a task for the bold and open, the down-to-earth and visionary. Cal Poly Humboldt strives to cultivate these qualities in leaders, innovators, and scholars in every field.

 

(Job #557639) Administrative Support Coordinator, California Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit Coordinator, CSU Classification Salary Range: $4,367 – $6,362 per month (Step 1- Step 20), Anticipated Hiring Range: $4,367- $4,454 per month (Step 1-2). Final salary placement is commensurate with experience, internal equity, and budget considerations.  

This is a full-time, benefited, non-exempt, 12-month pay plan permanent position with a one-year probationary period in the Natural Resources and Sciences department.

This position comes with a premium benefits package that includes outstanding vacation, medical, dental, and vision plans, life insurance, voluntary pre-tax health and dependent care reimbursement accounts, a fee waiver education program, membership in the California Public Employees Retirement System (PERS), and 15 paid holidays per year. Additional benefits information can be found at https://www.humboldt.edu/hr/employee-benefits.

 

Position Summary:

This position serves as the administrative support coordinator to the USGS Scientists/Unit Leaders and is liaison for the USGS California Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, coordinating between the us Department of Interior (DOI), Cal Poly Humboldt, Cal Poly Humboldt Sponsored Programs, us Fish and Wildlife Service, California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Wildlife Management Institute, United States Fish and Wildlife Service, peer universities, and principal investigators from other campus departments. Under the lead work direction of the USGS Scientists/CACFWRU Unit Leader, the incumbent is responsible for the clerical/ administrative support, financial data maintenance of state, federal, and private research grants, federal operating funds, and state contribution funds to facilitate the research, teaching, information dissemination and technical assistance goals of the Unit's Cooperative Agreement. Work is completed independently and involves coordination with staff and student employees. The position holder is expected to support and maintain an environment focused on continuous improvement and excellent customer service and to represent the CACFWRU with the highest integrity and in a professional, positive, respectful, service-oriented manner at all times.

 

Key Responsibilities:

 

Office and Program Administrative Support (both independently

and as directed by department lead) – 50%

• Serves as primary point of contact for the Unit Office. Represents the Unit and University in contacts with agency personnel, university administrators, faculty, staff, students, and the general public.
• Assists Unit Leader in preparing, generating, and submitting DOI Research Work Orders (RWO) under the Unit's Cooperative Agreement between federal, state, university, and private cooperators.
• Provides assistance in the preparation of inter-agency agreements, memorandums of understanding, and purchases of contract work. Separate procedural processes are required for federal RWO's which are initiated after meeting the requirements of the university.
• Establishes and maintains efficient administrative files and notifies the Unit Leaders on changes in federal policies or procedures per direction of DOI headquarters.
• Assists in preparation and planning for Annual Coordinating Committee Meeting and Annual Reports
• Monitor effectiveness and compliance to CACFWRU personnel in navigating federal and University programmatic rules, policies, procedures, and processes.
• Generates progress reports on research and special projects
• Provide administrative support for reports and manuscripts for publication for CACFWRU.
• Assist the Unit Leader in populating and maintaining data information and retrieval system, including productivity (publications, presentations, staffing and safety).
• Tracks and maintains records of all training, maintenance, and acquisition for CACFWRU.
• Monitors the status of on-going research projects, initiates contacts with research investigators, state and federal agency administrators, and other responsible parties to coordinate completion of legally required documentation, data distribution, reports and publication of research information.
• Create, maintain, and purge all current and historical departmental files and records according to retention schedule.
• Maintain and distribute information to community members, students, faculty, and staff outside the department, through mail and email, bulletin boards, and web content.
• Participates in federal administrative workshops, educational courses, and training sessions to improve performance and maintain data knowledge.
• Attend department meetings and transcribe minutes.
• Coordinate special departmental events.
• Coordinate scholarship awards and funds.
• Coordinate key, phone, work, and other relevant requests for COOP offices, workspaces, classrooms, and facilities.
• Extracts information from scientific research proposals and uses information to prepare required documentation.
• Other similar administrative office or program support as needed or assigned.

 

Budgets and Fiscal Records – 45%

• Under lead work direction of Unit Leaders, assists with developing budget documents and projections for research projects and base operating funds. Provides budget projections based on analysis of the historical record and anticipated future needs.
• Responsible for maintaining fiscal records, expending funds, and monitoring the CACFWRU budget in consultation with Unit Leaders, Department Chairs, SPF Budget Analysts, and College Budget Analyst.
• Maintain, and gather data and information for tracking, monitoring and compiling state, federal, and other department funds (including trust, contracts, etc.).
• Prepares federal budget documents and spreadsheets monthly and annually to manage, account, and reconcile expenditures of federal funds.
• Responsible for property inventory management.
• Manages funds for maintenance of CACFWRU vehicles and boats.
• Ensure vehicles and boats meet safety requirements and that all personnel are up to date on required federal and university training for their use.
• Monitors revenues and spending from state, federal, and other department funds (including trust, contracts, etc.)
• Informs Unit Leaders and principal investigators of irregularities and proceeds with corrective actions.
• Applies and explains established policy and procedural requirements for three (state, federal, and SPF) personnel/ payroll systems.
• Reviews research project progress and expenditures to ensure funds are not over-expended and that reports and deliverables are completed to meet contract requirements.
• Communicates accounting information with SPF and federal offices. Assures accuracy of information and resolves any discrepancies that may occur.
• Orders scientific and motor vehicle equipment as specified by the Unit Leaders, maintains inventory of office supplies and equipment and determines funding source and assures compliance with the purchasing procedures and regulations of the funding authority.
• Oversees collection and processing of payroll documents and tracks payroll expenses for student assistants, graduate student temporary help and pool positions, including verifying and tracking of state and federal work study for student assistances, to ensure department stays within budget.
• Adheres to spending regulations of the various funding sources and complies with all policies, procedures, and deadlines relating to budget, procurement, and accounting.
• May provide guidance to the Unit Leader regarding appropriate expenditure of funds.
• Performs other similar budget or fiscal activities as needed or assigned.

 

Other duties as assigned – 5%

 

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Associated with this Position Include:

As listed in Classification Standards:

• Thorough knowledge of English grammar, punctuation, and spelling.
• Experience and ability to be fully functional in all technical aspects of work assignments.
• Expertise using office software packages, technology, and systems.
• Ability to independently handle multiple work unit priorities and projects.
• Working knowledge of budget policies and procedures.
• Ability to troubleshoot most office administration problems and respond to all inquiries and requests related to work area.
• General working knowledge of applicable university infrastructure, policies, and procedures.
• Thorough knowledge of office methods, procedures, and practices. Ability to learn, interpret independently, and apply a variety of complex policies and procedures. Able to identity deviations from applicable policies.
• Ability to apply independent judgment, discretion, and initiative to address problems and develop practical, thorough and, at times, creative solutions. Demonstrated competence in understanding, interpreting, and communicating procedures, policies, information, ideas, and instructions.
• Ability to perform standard arithmetic functions of a transactional nature, including tracking and comparing data. Ability to draft and compose correspondence and standard reports.
• Demonstrated competence in effectively presenting standard information in writing. Ability to effectively handle a broad range of interpersonal contacts, including those at a higher level and those sensitive in nature.
• Ability to apply independent judgment, discretion, and initiative to address problems and develop practical, thorough and, at times, creative solutions. Ability to use negotiation and persuasion skills to achieve results and expedite projects.

 

Minimum Qualifications:

• Entry to this classification requires a fully functional knowledge of and skill in standard office procedures and practices, as well as an ability to understand and operate in a variety of organizational structures.
• Additionally, incumbents are expected to have a thorough knowledge of English grammar, spelling, and punctuation and be able to clearly communicate orally and in writing. Requires a knowledge of business mathematics beyond basic arithmetic. The ability to use and quickly learn new office support technology systems and software packages is also a prerequisite.
• These entry qualifications would normally be obtained through a high school program, technical/vocational program, or their equivalents combined with several years of related office work experience.

 

Preferred Qualifications:

• Possession of a Bachelor's Degree (or equivalent) from an accredited college or university and experience equivalent to three years of progressively responsible administrative and clerical support that includes experience in an academic office and/or educational setting with a diverse student population, and demonstrated customer service.
• Intermediate to advanced skill and experience using office productivity software, particularly Microsoft Excel, Access, Word, and Google Suite.
• Demonstrated skill and experience using PeopleSoft, OBI, or similar business intelligence tools and databases.
• Comprehensive knowledge of university infrastructure, policies, and procedures.
• Demonstrated commitment and ability to support and maintain an environment focused on continuous improvement and excellent customer service.
• Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain positive working relationships with staff, students, faculty, and community members from diverse backgrounds.
• Demonstrated commitment and ability to be proactive and self-motivated while supporting the diverse needs of staff, students, and the campus community.
• Demonstrated sensitivity to cross-cultural perspectives and experiences.

Application Procedure: To apply, qualified candidates must electronically submit the following materials by clicking the Apply Now button:

• Letter of Interest
• Resume or Curriculum Vitae
• Contact information for at least three supervisor  references

Application Deadline: The deadline to submit application materials is 11:55 p.m. on June 3rd, 2026.

Any inquiries about this recruitment can be directed to careers@humboldt.edu or Cal Poly Humboldt’s Human Resources Office at (707) 826-3626.

We acknowledge that Cal Poly Humboldt is located on the unceded lands of the Wiyot people, where they have resided from time immemorial. We encourage all to gain a deeper understanding of their history and thriving culture. As an expression of our gratitude we are genuinely committed to developing trusting, reciprocal, and long lasting partnerships with the Wiyot people as well as all of our neighboring tribes. Cal Poly Humboldt was the first campus in the California State University system to offer a stand-alone major in Native American Studies.

Cal Poly Humboldt is committed to enriching its educational environment and its culture through the diversity of its staff, faculty, and administration. Persons with interest and experience in helping organizations set and achieve goals relative to diversity and inclusion are especially encouraged to apply.

Working in the state of California is a condition of employment for this position. Even if part or all of an employee's assignment can be performed remotely, the employee must maintain a permanent residence in the state of California. The employee must be able to accept on-campus work assignment, as assigned, and come to campus when needed.

CSU strongly recommends that all individuals who access any in-person program or activity (on- or off-campus) operated or controlled by the University follow COVID-19 vaccine recommendations adopted by the U.S Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) applicable to their age, medical condition, and other relevant indications and comply with other safety measure established by each campus. The systemwide policy can be found at CSU Vaccination Policy and any questions you have may be submitted to hr@humboldt.edu.

Cal Poly Humboldt hires only individuals lawfully authorized to work in the United States. This position may be considered a “Campus Security Authority”, pursuant to the Clery Act, and is required to comply with the requirements set forth in CSU Executive Order 1107 a condition of employment.

CAL POLY HUMBOLDT IS NOT A SPONSORING AGENCY FOR STAFF OR MANAGEMENT POSITIONS (e.g. H1-B VISAS)

Evidence of required degree(s), certification(s), or license(s) is required prior to the appointment date. Satisfactory completion of a background check (including a criminal records check, employment verification, and education verification) is required for employment. Cal Poly Humboldt will issue a contingent offer of employment to the selected candidate, which may be rescinded if the background check reveals disqualifying information, and/or if it is discovered that the candidate knowingly withheld or falsified information.  Certain positions may also require a credit check, motor vehicle report, and/or fingerprinting through Live Scan service. Failure to satisfactorily complete or adverse findings from a background check may affect the employment status of candidates or continued employment of current CSU employees who are being considered for the position.

All university programs and activities are open and available to all regardless of race, sex, color, ethnicity or national origin. Consistent with California law and federal civil rights laws, the Cal Poly Humboldt provides equal opportunity in education and employment without unlawful discrimination or preferential treatment based on race, sex, color, ethnicity, or national origin. Our commitment to equal opportunity means ensuring that every student and employee has access to the resources and support they need to thrive and succeed in a university environment and in their communities. Cal Poly Humboldt complies with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, the California Equity in Higher Education Act, California’s Proposition 209 (Art. I, Section 31 of the California Constitution), other applicable state and federal anti-discrimination laws, and CSU’s Nondiscrimination Policy. We prohibit discriminatory preferential treatment, segregation based on race or any other protected status, and all forms of discrimination, harassment, and retaliation in all university programs, policies, and practices.  Cal Poly Humboldt is a diverse community of individuals who represent many perspectives, beliefs and identities, committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful, and intellectually vibrant environment. We cultivate a culture of open dialogue, mutual respect, and belonging to support educational excellence and student success. Through academic programs, student organizations and activities, faculty initiatives, and community partnerships, we encourage meaningful engagement with diverse perspectives. As a higher education institution, we are dedicated to advancing knowledge and empowering individuals to reach their full potential by prioritizing inclusive curriculum development, faculty and staff training, student mentorship, and comprehensive support programs. At Cal Poly Humboldt, excellence is built on merit, talent, diversity, accessibility, and equal opportunity for all.

 

Education Code 89521 Requirements: Applicants will be required to disclose whether they have received a final administrative decision or final judicial decision determining that they have committed sexual harassment within the last 7 years only after a determination is made that they meet the minimum qualifications for the position, and before an offer of employment is extended. Applicants who reach the final stages of the application process must also sign a release form that authorizes the release of information by the applicant’s current and/or former employers to the CSU concerning any substantiated allegations of misconduct.

Additionally, all CSU staff and faculty receive training annually on their obligations in responding to and reporting incidents of sexual harassment and sexual violence. You will be notified by email when you are required to take this mandated training.

Class Code:  [1035]
Publication Date:   [05/20/2026]