Part-Time Administrative Support

Penn State University•University Park, IL

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Evidence-to-Impact Collaborative (EIC) is seeking a motivated, self-starter to act as a hybrid or remote-based part-time administrative assistant to support the organization and daily operations of the Research Translation Platform. The EIC transforms the use of research evidence in decision-making through cross-system collaboration for the optimization of social investments. The EIC is a research center and information hub for the science of using social science. We leverage our expertise in administrative data, program evaluation, and researcher-policymaker relationships for social investment optimization. Because the part-time administrative assistant and their work will play an important role in supporting the Research Translation Platform, motivation to foster a successful team environment and an ability to adapt to a rapid paced environment are essential. This position would be best suited to a detail-oriented individual that enjoys communicating with external stakeholders, thorough record-keeping, and problem-solving.

Requirements

Enjoys a highly external-facing position and is comfortable managing frequent interaction and engagement with a broad range of stakeholders and external offices, including federal and state legislators and their staff.
Thrives in a changing and dynamic environment, working both independently and with remote teams, demonstrating the flexibility, adaptability, and sound judgment necessary to pivot effectively in response to evolving priorities and organizational needs.
Communicates clearly and proactively, maintains consistent communication and check-ins with colleagues and stakeholders. Recognizes when additional guidance or support is needed and proactively seeks assistance to ensure work is completed effectively and to a high standard.
Demonstrates proficiency in Microsoft Excel and the ability to quickly learn and effectively utilize a range of technology platforms and tools currently used across the organization, including Slack, Asana, Microsoft Teams, Toggl, and Salesforce. Demonstrates a willingness to adapt to evolving technologies and incorporate new systems into daily workflows to support productivity, collaboration, and operational efficiency.
Available and engaged in meetings, group training, and collaborative activities while working remotely, demonstrating responsiveness, active participation, and a strong commitment to maintaining team connectivity and productivity.
Exceptional attention to detail and organizational skills

Nice To Haves

Previous work communicating and collaborating in a professional, remote setting
Experience with online communication and project management platforms (e.g., the EIC uses Asana)

Responsibilities

Scheduling represents a variable 10%–60% of the role, depending on business demands. The part-time administrative assistant will be leading scheduling with federal and state legislators’ offices. It is a highly complex, high-stakes responsibility requiring extensive due diligence, meticulous coordination, sound judgment, and exceptional attention to detail.
Serve as a highly people-facing representative of the organization, maintaining frequent and professional interaction with external offices and stakeholders. This will include managing a high volume of communications through phone calls and email, while conducting thorough and independent research to gather information, resolve inquiries, support decision-making, and ensure accurate and timely follow-through. This will include congressional and state-level legislative office stakeholders.
Manage and oversee the end-to-end coordination and tracking of trainee onboarding and offboarding, training initiatives, documentation, and monthly professional development meetings.
Leverage multiple specialized platforms, including Excel, Salesforce, and Asana, to ensure operational efficiency, accurate recordkeeping, seamless communication, and timely execution across the trainee lifecycle.
Research and evaluate new tools, technologies, and platforms to enhance operational effectiveness; proactively troubleshoot and resolve technical issues; and develop and implement innovative strategies to strengthen communication, streamline operations, improve organizational processes, and drive overall efficiency.
Maintaining/updating communications and social media (e.g., updating websites using WordPress)
Supporting the Research Project Manager, and other leads on other administrative and communications projects/initiatives