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 Department of Education Policy Studies is seeking an Administrative Support Manager to oversee the department's business and administrative operations.
Working closely with the Department Head, this position plays a key role in developing and managing departmental budgets, recommending funding strategies, approving financial and personnel transactions, and providing data-driven insights to support planning and decision-making.
The Administrative Support Manager also provides oversight of office operations, administrative staff, and departmental procedures while fostering collaboration with university partners to support the department's teaching, research, and service mission.
Develop and manage departmental budgets; recommend funding strategies.
Oversee daily function of the Department’s office; respond to and/or resolve faculty, staff, and student issues, involving Human Resources (HR) when necessary.
Review and approve financial and HR transactions.
Compile and analyze data for reports, grants, contracts, and programs.
Lead strategic planning for operations including communications, finance, staffing, and technology.
Liaise with internal offices and external agencies; represent the department in meetings and committees.
Coordinate cross-departmental programs and course scheduling.
Oversee logistical tasks related to HR functions and actions (e.g., entering Graduate Assistantship appointments, generating appointment letters, and managing terminations).
Provide administrative support for faculty hiring and promotion/tenure committees.
Act as facilities coordinator: manage office space assignments and moves; assess and procure office equipment and furniture.
The Administrative Support Manager will also supervise the Department's administrative team. This will involve hiring, training, coordinating work assignments, and evaluating the performance of direct reports, as well as recommending professional development and resolving employee relations issues (escalating to HR when necessary).
Demonstrated leadership experience with a proven ability to build collaborative relationships, lead change, and achieve organizational goals
Excellent interpersonal skills, with the ability to foster engagement through active listening, responsiveness, and trust-building
Inclusive and respectful when working with others
Effective verbal and written communication and organizational skills
Demonstrated attention to detail and accuracy
Driven to provide excellent customer service
Demonstrated ability to exercise professional judgment, act proactively, and take initiative
Candidates must also have experience managing or maintaining budgets, including tracking overspending.
MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS
Bachelor's Degree
8+ years of relevant experience, includes 3+ years of supervisory experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted
Required Certifications:
None
Applicants must submit a cover letter addressing their interest and relevant experience, in addition to a resume.
This position will report to the Department Head of Education Policy Studies.
The Administrative Support Manager will also work with various software including Workday and the following which are specific to Penn State:
LionPATH (student information system)
SIMBA (System for Integrated Management, Budgeting and Accounting)
The College of Education 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.
Important Note: In accordance with College guidelines, this position requires a minimum of three days per week of on-site work at the designated work location.
The Department of Education Policy Studies offers an undergraduate degree in education policy and graduate degrees relating to education policy, educational leadership, and higher education.
Our programs are consistently recognized among the nation's leading programs in these fields. Courses are delivered both in person at the University Park campus and online through Penn State's World Campus, meeting the needs of both traditional students and working professionals.
More information about the department can be found on Penn State’s 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 $54,060.00 - $78,444.00.
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.
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