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
Are you someone who enjoys keeping things running smoothly, helping others navigate processes, and being the go-to person people rely on? The College of Earth and Mineral Sciences (EMS) is seeking an Administrative Assistant to join our Dean’s Office team and play a key role in supporting the daily operations of a dynamic academic community.
In this role, you’ll work behind the scenes to make a meaningful impact—helping faculty, staff, students, and postdoctoral scholars move their work forward by coordinating and initiating important administrative processes.
The College of Earth and Mineral Sciences is a leader in research, teaching, and outreach focused on some of today’s most important challenges—from energy and the environment to materials innovation and the Earth sciences. Our community is collaborative, mission-driven, and deeply engaged in work that makes a difference. As part of the Dean’s Office team, you’ll contribute to the operational support that helps make that impact possible.
What You’ll Do
You’ll be a central part of a collaborative team that supports multiple departments across the College. Your day-to-day work will include:
Initiating and coordinating routine administrative and purchasing transactions using University systems (such as PSU Buy, ServiceNow, and Concur)
Helping faculty, staff, students, and postdoctoral scholars navigate administrative processes
Tracking and following up on requests to ensure timely and accurate completion
Serving as a reliable point of contact for administrative questions and guidance
Partnering with central offices to support efficient processing and issue resolution
Assisting with wage payroll administration (job postings and timekeeping)
Providing flexible administrative support across multiple departments
MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS
If filled as Administrative Assistant - Intermediate Support, this position requires: General Equivalency Diploma (GED) or High School (HS) 2+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted Required Certifications: None If filled as Administrative Assistant - Support, this position requires: General Equivalency Diploma (GED) or High School (HS) No prior relevant work experience required; previous relevant work experience accepted in lieu of education. Required Certifications: None
Why This Role Matters
This position plays an important role in reducing administrative burden across the College—allowing faculty and students to focus on teaching, research, and learning while you help keep operations running smoothly.
You’ll also serve as part of a team that connects departments with central offices, helping create a more seamless and supportive experience for the EMS community.
What We’re Looking For
We’re looking for someone who is:
Organized and detail-oriented
Comfortable managing multiple tasks and priorities
A strong communicator who enjoys helping others
Reliable, proactive, and able to follow through on tasks
Comfortable learning new systems and processes
Preferred Qualifications
Experience in administrative support or operations
Familiarity with systems such as ServiceNow, Concur, or similar platforms
Experience working in a higher education or large organizational environment
Why Join EMS?
You’ll be part of a supportive, collaborative team where your work is valued and visible. This role offers variety, opportunities to build new skills, and the chance to make a real impact across a college that is addressing some of the world’s most pressing challenges.
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 $34,800.00 - $55,500.00.
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.