Computer Operation and Administrative Support Assistant

Harvard University • Cambridge, MA

1d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Computer Operations & Administrative Support Assistant provides routine technical, administrative, and operational support to help ensure the department’s efficient day-to-day functioning. The role combines basic computer operations, data processing, recordkeeping, customer service, and general administrative responsibilities. Under general supervision and established policies and procedures, the assistant supports computer hardware, software, and peripheral equipment; processes and maintains data; prepares and distributes materials; and assists with departmental projects and activities. Work is generally routine and requires limited independent judgment. A supervisor establishes priorities, provides procedural guidance, and may review completed work for accuracy and completeness.

The role includes collecting, organizing, cleaning, and validating data; performing basic analysis; preparing routine reports and presentations; and documenting data sources and processes. It also involves routine IT and systems support, including equipment setup, basic troubleshooting, user account and access requests under IT direction, and IT inventory and documentation. The assistant provides project and departmental support, organizes records and materials in accordance with security and confidentiality requirements, responds to routine questions, and refers complex matters to appropriate personnel.

This is a three-month term position with a 35-hour workweek, Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The position is hybrid, typically requiring onsite work one day per week (three days per month), with one week working from home. Attendance at the after-hours annual company meeting is required. A 90-day orientation and review period applies. Harvard cannot provide visa sponsorship for this position.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• One year of related administrative, computer operations, data processing, or customer service experience preferred; relevant education or training may be considered in lieu of experience.
• Ability to follow established procedures and applicable security and confidentiality requirements.
• Availability for a 35-hour workweek, Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and attendance at the after-hours annual company meeting.

Nice To Haves

• Additional education or training in business administration, computer operations, information technology, or a related field preferred.

Responsibilities

• Collect, organize, clean, and validate data from approved sources.
• Perform basic data analysis to identify trends, discrepancies, and noteworthy changes.
• Use spreadsheets and other approved tools to sort, filter, summarize, and present data.
• Help prepare and update routine reports, dashboards, charts, and presentations.
• Document data sources, processes, assumptions, and findings, and maintain organized files.
• Escalate data quality issues or unusual results to the appropriate team member.
• Assist with routine setup of computer equipment, software, and peripherals in accordance with established procedures.
• Help monitor computer systems and equipment, report errors or malfunctions, and perform basic troubleshooting within established guidelines.
• Support routine user account and access requests under the direction of IT staff.
• Assist with maintaining IT inventory, records, and documentation.
• Refer complex technical issues to appropriate IT personnel.
• Provide day-to-day support for data, IT, and departmental projects.
• Organize files, records, and project materials while following applicable security and confidentiality requirements.
• Respond to routine questions and direct more complex requests to appropriate personnel.
• Collaborate with colleagues and perform other related duties as assigned.
• Attend the after-hours annual company meeting.

Benefits

• Generous paid time off, including parental leave
• Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one
• Retirement plans with university contributions
• Wellbeing and mental health resources
• Support for families and caregivers
• Professional development opportunities, including tuition assistance and reimbursement
• Commuter benefits, discounts, and campus perks

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED