Staff Assistant - Physics and Astronomy

The principal activities of the Physics and Astronomy Department are research and education, at both the undergraduate and graduate level. The department strives both to contribute to the growing understanding of the physical universe, and to educate students in both the content of physics and its methods and principles.

Under limited supervision, the Staff Assistant performs complex and diverse duties for the department and serves as a source of information and problem solving for students, faculty, staff and other constituents, with a primary focus on supporting the research activities of the Department. The Staff Assistant will provide general guidance and explanation of departmental policies and procedures and may communicate on behalf of manager(s) to explain or disseminate information. This position will also handle the below duties:

• Coordinate meetings and travel arrangements
• Produce, proofread and edit complex reports, documents and spreadsheets
• Monitor, tracks expenditures, resolve problems and report on department budget and/or grants
• Perform research-related purchasing for the department
• Coordinate planning and logistics for Department colloquia and special events, including communications, travel arrangements, event setup, and reimbursements
• May also coordinate department projects or programs, making logistical arrangements for program participants, arranging purchasing of materials and arranging payment for temporary program staff
  

Basic Requirements:

• Knowledge and skills as typically acquired by a high school diploma/GED and 2-4 years of administrative experience or college degree with 1-3 years' experience
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite, including word processing, editing, graphics, spreadsheet and database knowledge
• Bookkeeping or basic accounting knowledge
• Strong organizational and interpersonal skills

Special Work Schedule Requirements:

This is a hybrid position expected to be on campus most days during the academic year and occasional nights and weekends.