Administrative Assistant (Temporary, Part-Time)

Vanderbilt; Nashville (TN); On-site; USD 21,000 - 30,000; Part time

Job summary

Vanderbilt University in Nashville seeks an Administrative Assistant to provide essential operational support to the Office of the Vice Provost for Graduate Education and Growth Initiatives. Responsibilities include front desk coverage, reception, meeting setup, and general administrative tasks in a fast-paced environment.

The role supports units across theGraduate Education portfolio; candidates should demonstrate strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Part-time 30 hours per week in a temporary role up to 6 months.
• Experience in administrative, operational, or related professional areas.
• Strong organizational skills with attention to detail and multi-tasking ability.
• Ability to work independently while maintaining accountability and confidentiality.
• Adaptability and willingness to support evolving departmental needs.

Responsibilities

• Provide front desk and reception coverage and manage inquiries.
• Coordinate meeting preparation, setup, and logistics.
• Assist with travel reimbursements, budgeting, procurement, and other admin tasks.

Skills

Organizational skills

Attention to detail

Multi-tasking

Independent work

Confidentiality

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree

Tools

Invoicing systems

Procurement workflows

Job description

JOB DESCRIPTION

The Administrative Assistant provides essential operational support to the Office of the ViceProvost for Graduate Education and Growth Initiatives, including office coverage and reception, meeting preparation and setup, and general administrative functions. The Administrative Assistant also works in support of units across the Graduate Education portfolio as needs arise, while demonstrating strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, evolving environment.

About the Work Unit:

The Vice Provost for Graduate Education and Growth Initiatives leads a portfolio of academic strategic growth initiatives for graduate and professional students, serves as the Dean of the Graduate School, and oversees the Office of Postdoctoral Affairs (OPA). The mission of the Graduate School at Vanderbilt University is to promote excellence in research, scholarship, and creative expression such that graduate students and postdoctoral trainees are optimally prepared for successful careers in academia, industry, and related fields. Together, the Graduate School and OPA recruit the most promising pre- and post-doctoral scholars and create a stimulating environment that fosters intellectual growth and development. Vanderbilt's campus network is a growing ecosystem of campuses and strategic initiatives designed to extend the university's impact beyond Nashville, and includes Vanderbilt University - New York City, Vanderbilt University - West Palm Beach, Vanderbilt University - San Francisco, and Vanderbilt University - Quantum Campus. The Office of the Vice Provost for Graduate Education and Growth Initiatives works to design and support academic programming and opportunities for graduate and professional students across this growing ecosystem.

Key Functions and Expected Performance:

• Office Coverage and Reception Provide front desk and phone line coverage, welcoming visitors and directing inquiries appropriately Monitor shared departmental email accounts and route inquiries appropriately Monitor and distribute incoming mail and packages In consultation with Vanderbilt University Maintenance and Operations, submit work orders for office and building maintenance and oversee requests through completion
• Meeting Preparation and Setup Coordinate conference room scheduling and setup Prepare spaces for events and meetings with necessary equipment and materials In consultation with Vanderbilt University Information Technology, arrange audiovisual components and test functionality prior to meetings Arrange catering and refreshments as needed Document meeting attendance, record minutes, and track items for follow-up
• General Administrative Functions Assist with scheduling on behalf of the Vice Provost Maintain departmental supply inventories Assist with processing travel-related reimbursements and other departmental expenditures Other duties as assigned

Supervisory Relationships

The Administrative Assistant reports to the Interim Executive Director of Operations and Strategy. The Administrative Assistant does not have supervisory responsibilities.

Education and Certifications:

• A bachelor's degree from an accredited institution of higher education or an equivalent combination of education, relevant experience, and relevant skills are necessary.

Experience and Skills:

• Must be willing to work part-time- roughly 30 hours per week; this role is a temporary position up to 6 months
• Experience with administrative, operational, or related professional areas is preferred.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Experience with financial processes, budgeting, invoicing, procurement, reimbursement workflows, or operational support functions.
• Ability to work independently while maintaining accountability for assigned responsibilities.
• Adaptability and willingness to support evolving departmental needs.
• Commitment to teamwork, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment.

ABOUT US

At Vanderbilt University , our work - regardless of title or role - is in service to an important and noble mission in which every member of our community serves in advancing knowledge and transforming lives on a daily basis. Located in Nashville, Tennessee, on a 330+ acre campus and arboretum dating back to 1873, Vanderbilt is proud to have been named as one of "America's Best Large Employers" as well as a top employer in Tennessee and the Nashville metropolitan area by Forbes for several years running. We welcome those who are interested in learning and growing professionally with an employer that strives to create, foster and sustain opportunities as an employer of choice. We understand you have a choice when choosing where to work and pursue a career. We understand you are unique and have a story. We want to hear it. Vanderbilt University is an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by law.