Special Services Assistant (Space Planning & Operations)

University of Pennsylvania; Philadelphia (Philadelphia County); On-site; USD 29,645 - 30,692; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive medical, prescription, and dental insurance

Tuition assistance for employees and dependents

Generous retirement plans

Substantial paid time off

Access to libraries and athletic facilities

Flexible work hours

Job summary

The University of Pennsylvania is seeking a Special Services Assistant to provide support for room configuration and event setups in the Perelman School of Medicine. This role involves preparing room setups, coordinating logistics, and maintaining a customer-friendly environment.

Qualified candidates must have a High School diploma and several years of related experience, including the ability to lift heavy objects and work effectively with diverse clients.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 3–5 years of related experience or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Ability to frequently lift and move heavy objects weighing 25–50 pounds or more.
• Must be able to work overtime on short notice.

Responsibilities

• Prepare room configurations and event setups per schedules and service requests.
• Communicate with customers and SES staff to confirm service details.
• Coordinate event logistics ensuring timely completion of room setups.

Skills

Customer service orientation

Organizational skills

Effective communication

Ability to lift heavy objects

Education

High School diploma

Technical school certification

Job description

Special Services Assistant (Space Planning & Operations)

Under limited supervision, the Special Services Assistant (SSA) primarily provides room configuration and event set‑up services in support of the Perelman School of Medicine buildings. Assigned by the DS Supervisor or Senior Coordinator, the SSA’s daily tasks are based on room schedules, service requests, and Distribution Services operational needs. The SSA interacts closely with customers (including VIP customers) and with Scheduling and Event Services (SES) staff to ensure that services performed meet required expectations.

Key responsibilities include:

• Preparing room configurations and event set‑ups per schedules and service requests.
• Communicating with customers and SES staff to confirm service details and expectations.
• Coordinating event logistics and ensuring timely completion of room setup.
• Assisting with lead capacity duties when requested.
• Providing overtime support before and after regularly scheduled hours, and during weekends as needed.
• Handling, moving, and setting up equipment weighing 100–500 pounds, including lifting unassisted up to 50 pounds.
• Operating standard tools and equipment with mechanical aptitude and high dexterity.
• Maintaining a safe, organized, and customer‑friendly environment.

Job Qualifications

• Minimum: High School diploma and 3–5 years of experience or equivalent combination of education and experience. Technical school, certification, training, or apprenticeship beyond high school is a plus.
• Physical: Ability to frequently lift and move heavy objects weighing 25–50 pounds or more; ability to lift 50 pounds unassisted; physically able to stand, walk, and perform required tasks.
• Customer‑service oriented and able to communicate effectively with individuals at various organizational levels.
• Highly organized with strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to read, write, and perform basic arithmetic.
• Must be able to work overtime on short notice.

Job Location

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Department / School

Perelman School of Medicine

Pay Range

$21.52 – $22.28 hourly rate. Salary offers are based on qualifications, experience, skills, and education.

Equal Opportunity Statement

The University of Pennsylvania is an equal opportunity employer. Candidates are considered for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, religion, creed, national origin (including shared ancestry or ethnic characteristics), citizenship status, age, disability, veteran status or any class protected under applicable federal, state or local law.

Benefits

• Health, Life, and Flexible Spending Accounts: Comprehensive medical, prescription, behavioral health, dental, vision, and life insurance benefits.
• Tuition: Tuition assistance for employees, spouses, and dependent children.
• Retirement: Generous retirement plans, including Basic, Matching, and Supplemental options.
• Time Away from Work: Substantial paid time off.
• Long‑Term Care Insurance: Coverage for employees and eligible family members.
• Wellness and Work‑life Resources: Programs and resources supporting health, family, and work‑life balance.
• Professional and Personal Development: Resources to advance personally and professionally.
• University Resources: Access to libraries, athletic facilities, cultural events, and campus activities.
• Discounts and Special Services: Savings on arts, entertainment, transportation, and more.
• Flexible Work Hours: Creative approaches to work arrangements.
• Penn Home Ownership Services: Forgivable loan for eligible employees buying a home.
• Adoption Assistance: Reimbursement for qualified adoption expenses up to two adoptions.

Special Requirements

Background checks may be required after a conditional job offer is made, tailored to the requirements of the position.