Office Assistant — Research & Security Programs

The Pennsylvania State University; Ferguson Township (PA); On-site; USD 47,000 - 77,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

75% tuition discount

Job summary

The Pennsylvania State University’s Applied Research Laboratory seeks versatile Office Assistants for the Undersea Systems Office. You will coordinate travel, support meetings, manage calendars, and assist with hiring while upholding security and confidentiality. This role offers exposure to DoD-linked programs and a strong benefits package.

ARL emphasizes security clearances, cross-functional collaboration, and handling sensitive information in a fast-paced office environment.

Qualifications

• Microsoft Office suite experience (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Outlook).
• Ability to manage multiple priorities with agility.
• Ability to resolve issues and prioritize work independently and in teams.
• Discretion and confidentiality in handling information.
• Strong office communication and organizational skills.
• Eligibility to obtain a U.S. government security clearance (Secret).
• Associate Degree or equivalent required for Senior Support.
• 4+ years relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• GED or High School diploma; 2+ years relevant experience for Intermediate Support.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate a large volume of complex domestic and international travel for program engineers (researching visit requirements, booking reservations, arranging schedules, and reconciling travel expenses).
• Provide support for meetings (scheduling rooms, preparing agendas/ materials, overseeing logistics including AV, security, refreshments, and vendor meals).
• Manage data, files, and calendars.
• Coordinate external visitors with security guidelines and requirements.
• Communicate with internal and external stakeholders (government, industry, University, ARL).
• Assist with all administrative aspects of hiring and onboarding of new hires.
• Prepare classified material and compliance docs for higher-level role.
• Proofread documents for proper security markings, grammar, and formatting.

Skills

Microsoft Office

Prioritization

Discretion & confidentiality

Office communication

Security clearance eligibility

Multitasking

Education

Associate Degree

4+ years experience

GED/HS

2+ years (Intermediate)

Job description

The Pennsylvania State University’s Applied Research Laboratory seeks versatile Office Assistants for the Undersea Systems Office. You will coordinate travel, support meetings, manage calendars, and assist with hiring while upholding security and confidentiality. This role offers exposure to DoD-linked programs and a strong benefits package.

ARL emphasizes security clearances, cross-functional collaboration, and handling sensitive information in a fast-paced office environment.