The Administrative Specialist III serves as the first point of contact for the Office of Candidate Services, playing a key role in creating a welcoming, supportive, and efficient experience for students, faculty, and visitors. This position provides critical day-to-day administrative and operational support, helping to ensure office activities, communications, scheduling, and student services run smoothly and effectively.
The ideal candidate is proactive, adaptable, and highly organized with the ability to manage multiple responsibilities simultaneously in a fast-paced environment while demonstrating a strong attention to detail. Successful candidates will have a strong proficiency with technology and be comfortable learning and using a variety of technologies and platforms. The candidate will communicate professionally and clearly, and demonstrate a strong commitment to customer service and student support. A collaborative mindset, problem-solving ability, meeting deadlines, and the ability to work independently are essential to succeed in this role.
Job Duties and Responsibilities
1. Student & Advisor Support
2. Data & Records Management
3. Budget, Finance & Procurement
4. Background Checks & Fingerprinting
5. General Administrative Tasks
6. Support the Effective and Efficient Operation of the Office
7. Other Duties as Assigned
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Qualifications and Competencies
- Mastery of technology, including Banner, database systems, and Google/Microsoft Office Suite.
- Exceptional organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines simultaneously.
- Self-starter who takes initiative and works independently with minimal supervision.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills; ability to build relationships with students, staff, and external agencies.
- Experience with budget management, procurement processes, and accounting systems.
- Familiarity with teacher education preparation and licensing is preferred.
Skills Considered Essential for Success
- Knowledge of the organization and administration of higher education.
- Knowledge of state, federal, and university rules, regulations and procedures.
- Ability to work in a diverse and dynamic environment.
- Ability to work collaboratively and independently with common goals as a part of a team.
- Ability to make sound judgments.
- Effective interpersonal communication, writing, and organizational abilities.
- Civility in all interactions.
- Demonstrate effective follow-up.
Required Education and/or Experience
The formal education equivalent of a high school diploma; plus one year of specialized training in business management, business education, or a related field; plus three years of experience in specialized or a related field applicable to work performed. Additional requirements determined by the agency for recruiting purposes require review and approval by the Office of Personnel Management. OTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.
Preferred Education and/or Experience
Working knowledge of Microsoft Word and Excel; Google Suite; and Google Forms. Working knowledge of Banner 9 preferred. Ability to independently problem-solve. Highly skilled in and comfortable with technology.
University, Campus, and Community Description
Thank you for your interest in employment at the University of Central Arkansas.
Founded in 1907, UCA has an enrollment of more than 10,000 students and employs over 1,300 full-time employees. The university offers more than 85 undergraduate and 59 graduate certificate and degree programs, including doctoral programs in five disciplines. UCA is proud of its tradition of teaching excellence and its contributions in research, scholarship, and creative activities.
Desired start date 08/01/2026
Position Summary and Qualifications
License(s)/Certifications
Physical Demands Checklist
Sitting, Kneeling, Standing, Lifting/Carrying, Walking
Physical Exertion
Administrative Work - Exerting up to 10 pounds
Posting Detail Information
Background Check Statement
This position may be subject to a pre-employment criminal, sex-offender registry, financial history background check and drug screening. A criminal conviction or arrest pending adjudication and/or adverse financial history alone shall not disqualify an applicant in the absence of a relationship to the requirements of the position. Background checks and drug screening information will be used in a confidential, non-discriminatory manner consistent with state and federal law.
