Part Time - Science, Engineering, and Technology - Administrative Assistant

Penn State University; Harrisburg (Dauphin County); On-site; USD 27,552 - 41,328; Part time

Job summary

Penn State University is seeking a motivated Administrative Assistant to support the School of Science, Engineering, and Technology. This role is critical for the operational functions of multiple academic departments.

The position is part-time, requiring up to 24 hours per week, with responsibilities including scheduling, visitor assistance, and office management. Candidates should possess strong organizational skills and proficiency in Microsoft Office.

Qualifications

• Previous administrative experience in a professional setting; higher education experience is a plus.
• Commitment to confidentiality and professionalism.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team.

Responsibilities

• Plan, organize, and coordinate daily office activities and administrative processes.
• Greet and assist visitors, students, and faculty.
• Provide support for scheduling and travel arrangements.

Skills

Microsoft Office Suite proficiency

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Problem-solving skills

Tools

SIMBA

Job description

Penn State Harrisburg’s School of Science, Engineering, and Technology is seeking a motivated, detail-oriented Administrative Assistant to join our team. This opening provides vital support for the day-to-day administrative and operational functions of the School, serving one or more academic departments, which may include Engineering, Mathematics, Computer Science, Biology, or Chemistry.

Responsibilities

• Plan, organize, and coordinate daily office activities and administrative processes.
• Greet and assist visitors, students, and faculty, respond to inquiries, and direct requests as appropriate.
• Provide support for scheduling, calendar management, and travel arrangements for students and faculty.
• Coordinate meeting logistics, including scheduling, preparing materials, and drafting agendas.
• Draft, review, and distribute internal and external communications.
• Collect, organize, and analyze data to prepare reports, presentations, contracts, and proposals.
• Create and maintain accurate files, records, and databases.
• Monitor budgets, process financial transactions, track expenditures, assist with revisions, and prepare projections.
• Manage office supplies and equipment needs, including ordering and coordinating maintenance.
• Support special events by reserving spaces, preparing itineraries and materials, coordinating with vendors, and serving as a primary contact.
• Ensure compliance with University policies and procedures.
• May perform confidential administrative tasks and serve in proxy roles as authorized.
• May coordinate the work of other support staff to promote efficient office operations.

Requirements

• Prior administrative experience in a professional setting; higher education experience is a plus.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel) required.
• Experience with University financial or business systems (such as SIMBA) preferred.
• Strong organizational, communication, and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team‑oriented environment.
• Commitment to maintaining confidentiality and professionalism.

Additional Details

• Schedule: Up to 24 hours per week.
• Compensation: Commensurate with experience.

Background Checks and Clearances

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473. The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university’s teaching, research, and service mission.