Since joining UNLV in 2012, Tondra De has held a variety of research and administrative roles. She became chief of staff to the executive vice president and provost in October 2019. In this role, she serves as a senior advisor to Provost Chris Heavey and provides support for strategic planning, project management, and communication. Her position is pivotal in streamlining operations, engaging stakeholders, advancing organizational culture, and enhancing the overall effectiveness of the Provost's office.

Before her current role, she was a director in the Office of Faculty Affairs, and ​prior to that a research analyst/statistician in the Office of Decision Support. Her other positions on campus include research statistician in the UNLV Libraries and senior research associate in The Lincy Institute.  She has served on numerous university committees and task forces, including two terms as a member of the Faculty Senate.