Student Associate, Career Education Center

University of Portland Portal • Portland, OR

12d • Onsite

About The Position

The Student Associate is a key member of the Career Education Center (CEC) team, serving as the first point of contact for students, faculty, staff, and visitors to campus. This role is a combination of customer service and operational support. Student Associates create a welcoming environment by checking in students and alumni for appointments, answering the phone, scheduling appointments, and sharing resources. They also contribute to department operations such as Handshake maintenance, data entry, and other assigned projects. All work is performed at the front desk. The Student Associate reports to the Program Assistant. After initial training, the Student Associate will independently staff the front desk during the Program Assistant’s lunch break (a one-hour period within the 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm window). Each shift typically includes time before or after lunch for check-in and transition, usually an additional 15 to 30 minutes. Total shift time is generally 1.5-2 hours long.

Requirements

• Customer service and interpersonal communication skills.
• Comfort with answering phones and directing calls.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office (primarily Word, Excel, Outlook, and Teams).
• Ability to learn digital tools and platforms.
• Able to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information.
• Ability to respond to questions and concerns in a calm and positive manner.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to take instruction and clearly communicate work/project progress.
• Ability to work independently with limited supervision.
• Willing to take initiative and work on a variety of projects.
• Must maintain consistent attendance and arrive on time for all scheduled shifts.
• Must be reliable and proactive in communicating about any schedule conflicts or changes.

Nice To Haves

• Available during the lunch hour (Monday – Friday, 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm).
• Previous customer service experience.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the first point of contact for students, faculty, staff, and visitors.
• Create a welcoming environment.
• Check in students and alumni for appointments.
• Answer the phone and direct calls.
• Schedule appointments.
• Share resources.
• Contribute to department operations such as Handshake maintenance, data entry, and other assigned projects.
• Independently staff the front desk during the Program Assistant’s lunch break.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed