Administrative Assistant (Faculty Affairs Coordinator), Department of Sociology and Criminology

Penn State University•University Park, IL

25d•$40,608 - $58,836•Hybrid

About The Position

The College of the Liberal Arts seeks an Administrative Assistant to serve as a faculty affairs coordinator for the Department of Sociology and Criminology. The role coordinates and supports faculty affairs and administrative functions, including recruitment, appointments, promotion and tenure, faculty reviews, and related academic processes. The Administrative Assistant works as a key administrative partner to faculty, departmental leadership, and university colleagues on academic and faculty affairs initiatives. The position requires at least three days per week of on-site work at the designated work location. Flexible work arrangements may be supported when consistent with the unit’s needs and the position’s essential duties. Employment is contingent on successful completion of background checks. Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States; Penn State does not sponsor or assume sponsorship of staff employment visas. Applicants must submit a cover letter addressing their interest and relevant experience, along with a resume.

Requirements

GED or high school diploma and at least 2 years of relevant experience; relevant education may be accepted in lieu of experience.
Excellent organizational capabilities and a demonstrated record of reliable, timely task completion.
Effective written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team.
Excellent interpersonal skills and an inclusive, respectful approach when working with others.
Detail-oriented approach and commitment to excellent customer service.
Ability to be proactive and take initiative.
Ability to exercise discretion and judgment when handling confidential and sensitive documents and matters.
Authorization to work in the United States.
Successful completion of required background checks.

Responsibilities

Coordinate faculty recruitment, promotion, and tenure processes, including preparing and submitting documents and dossiers, advising on policies, procedures, and deadlines, arranging dossier review committee meetings, and overseeing final dossier preparation and submission.
Assist faculty with forms, reports, and deadlines.
Coordinate faculty recruitment by preparing advertisements, supporting search committees, and arranging campus visit logistics.
Create offer letters; process faculty appointments and immigration applications; and assist others with form requirements and compliance.
Monitor faculty travel account balances and assist faculty with financial paperwork.
Manage the sabbatical leave process and other departmental faculty affairs matters.
Liaise with the Office of Global Programs to coordinate visiting scholar planning and visa processes.
Work closely with the Lead Administrative Support Coordinator and provide backup when needed.