Executive Assistant to the Dean, Schreyer Honors College
Job Description
APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click “Apply” and complete the application process for external applicants.
Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.
POSITION SPECIFICS
The Office of the Dean of Schreyer Honors College seeks an Executive Assistant to provide comprehensive, high-level administrative and operational support to the Dean.
The Executive Assistant (EA) serves as a strategic partner and trusted liaison to the Dean, Leadership Team, College committees, External Advisory Board, and internal and external constituents.
This role is central to the effective daily operations of the Dean’s Office and contributes directly to the overall success of the College.
Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
Executive Support & Calendar Management
Manage the Dean’s complex, confidential calendar: coordinating meetings with faculty, students, University leadership, and external stakeholders
Anticipate scheduling conflicts, travel time, and preparation needs
Monitor task systems to ensure timely completion of priority items
Support the Dean’s teaching and research activities
Meetings & Communications
Coordinate leadership and committee meetings, including agendas, materials, and logistics
Record and distribute minutes; track and close action items
Serve as liaison to internal and external stakeholders, including the External Advisory Board
Maintain board records, coordinate meetings/events, and manage official files
Operational & Financial Administration
Oversee daily administrative operations supporting the Dean and College leadership
Manage travel and expense reconciliation (utilizing SAP Concur)
Process purchasing, invoices, and procurement card transactions
Serve as Workday timekeeper and coordinate supply ordering
Support financial activities in collaboration with the Finance Strategic Partner
Team & Program Support
Coordinate service awards, including tracking, ordering, and recognition
Administer the leadership intern program (recruitment, onboarding, time approval)
Support the Dean’s Student Advisory Council
College Engagement & Office Leadership
Support College and University initiatives, events, and leadership activities
Represent the Dean’s office in key engagements and communications
Maintain confidentiality in handling sensitive information
Ensure efficient daily operations of the Dean’s Office and administrative functions
Qualifications:
Effective written and verbal communication skills
Demonstrated ability to manage confidential information with sound judgment
Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work collaboratively across a range of constituencies
Inclusive and respectful when working with others
Successful candidates will demonstrate exceptional organizational skills, discretion, professionalism, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
Applicants must also have advanced proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Teams, Word, Excel, PowerPoint) to support executive-level operations, including complex calendar and inbox management, preparation of executive communications and briefing materials, data tracking and reporting, and creation of professional presentations.
MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS
Bachelor's Degree 6+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted Required Certifications: None
Important Application Instructions:
Applicants must submit a cover letter addressing their interest and relevant experience, in addition to a resume.
Additional Information:
Regular onsite presence at Penn State's University Park campus is expected.
The Schreyer Honors College is supportive of flexible work arrangements when aligned with the ability to meet the needs of the unit and the essential duties of the position. Questions related to flexible work should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.
About Schreyer Honors College
Schreyer Honors College is Penn State’s University-wide undergraduate honors program, serving approximately 2,000 students across academic colleges and campuses.
Founded in 1997, the College continues the University Scholars Program’s tradition of leadership in honors education. For more information, visit our website.
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.
SALARY & BENEFITS
The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $61,800.00 - $89,600.00.
Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure
Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.
EEO IS THE LAW
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.
Penn State 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.