Administrative Assistant, College of the Liberal Arts

Penn State University • University Park, IL

7d • $38,300 - $55,500 • Hybrid

About The Position

Join the Willard Administrative Staff Team as an Administrative Assistant to provide support to the departments of African Studies; African American Studies; Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies; and the African Research Center within the College of the Liberal Arts. The Administrative Assistant plays a key role in supporting the administrative and operational functions of department heads and directors across the above units, coordinating events, communications, financial processes, and daily operations.

Requirements

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office 365 or similar tools for communication, document preparation, spreadsheet tracking, and scheduling
• Experience with financial processes, including expense tracking and reconciliation systems
• Effective verbal and written communication skills; driven to provide excellent customer service
• Outstanding attention to detail and accuracy
• Ability to exercise discretion and judgment while managing confidential materials
• Excellent organization skills with the ability to manage and prioritize tasks
• Demonstrated ability to work independently
• General Equivalency Diploma (GED) or High School (HS)
• 2+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted

Responsibilities

• Plan and coordinate events for postdoctoral fellows and speakers affiliated with the Center and assigned departments/programs
• Provide backup support for events such as conferences, talks, and workshops, including assisting with event logistics
• Coordinate schedules and activities with university and external collaborators, including travel, event planning, and communication with partners
• Prepare various financial forms and reconciliation of purchasing card charges
• Monitor and maintain assigned department heads/directors’ calendars and conference rooms schedules
• Compose, edit, and proof correspondence
• Make travel arrangements for assigned department heads/directors and other collaborators, as requested
• Assist in creating and coordinating promotional materials; maintain assigned websites and social media accounts
• Create and maintain the departments and center files, reports, and databases
• Schedule and document regular meetings with assigned Advisory Boards and alumni group

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Robust retirement plans
• Substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time
• 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED