Hudson Valley Research Laboratory Position Available: Administrative Assistant IV

Position Title: Administrative Assistant IV

Position Summary:

The College of Agriculture and Life Science is a pioneer of purpose-driven science and Cornell University’s second largest college. We work across disciplines to tackle the challenges of our time through world-renowned research, education and outreach. The questions we prove and the answers we seek focus on three overlapping concerns: natural and human systems; food, energy and environmental resources; and social, physical and economic well-being.

HVRL Entomology Staff

Cornell University scientists at Hudson Valley Research Laboratory (HVL) conduct applied research to improve the production of fruit and vegetable crops grown in New York State. Research-based information is provided to New York farmers through educational programs organized by Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) and participating CCE associations from Suffolk County in Long Island to Plattsburgh in the Champlain Valley and to Lockport in the Lake Ontario fruit-growing region. Research from the HVL provides farmers with science based evidence on effectiveness of new production methods that meet the stringent environmental standards required for modern agriculture. Programs at HVL are especially important to sustained viability of fruit farms in the Hudson Valley, and a viable agriculture is ultimately the best way to preserve open space in the rapidly developing corridor between Albany and New York City.

This is a full time position with dual supervisory reporting. Provide a full range of high level and complex administrative support to the Director at the HVL by managing calendars and meetings, answering inquiries about the laboratory’s numerous programs; managing highly sensitive and/or confidential materials and written and verbal communications with discretion while fostering excellent working relationships with all constituents. Perform receptionist duties for two other groups that occupy space at the HVL. Seek approvals and process assigned financial responsibilities in collaboration with supervisor at the Geneva Administrative Service Center (ASC). Oversee and coordinate event planning for departmental functions. Act as liaison and facilitate interactions between the Director and other laboratory members, faculty, graduate students, visitors and other College and University offices. Draft and prepare administrative and other reports and correspondence for and on the Director’s behalf. Generate and oversee preparation of spreadsheets as necessary. Attend meetings and prepare minutes as necessary. Diagnose problems with software and other technology products and services through discussions with users. Provide direct support of end-users for desktop operating systems. Identify, investigate and resolve basic user questions. Assist with IT related issues including updating the laboratory’s web information and video conferencing. Support Director with basic grant-writing needs and participate in Partnership Campaign.

This is a one year term appointment with possibility of renewal based on secured funding and successful performance.

Required Qualifications: Associates Degree in business administration, with six years’ experience in a high level administrative position or equivalent combination of education and experience. Ability to handle confidential and sensitive information with utmost discretion and integrity. Demonstrated record of successfully providing exceptional customer service. Ability to communicate with tact and diplomacy with a wide-range of internal and external constituents. Experience that demonstrates sound judgment, creativity, and problem-solving skills. Must be able to work independently while supporting the efforts of an overall team while fostering a respectful work environment. Excellent organizational skills, and the ability to work quickly and effectively under pressure, use sound judgment in accomplishing tasks that are urgent; balance conflicting priorities, and make decisions from a wide range of choices. Excellent written, verbal and interpersonal skills. Must be flexible and receptive to new ideas and approaches. Proven accuracy in spelling, grammar, proofreading and attention to detail. Must take initiative and meet challenges with resourcefulness and tact. Proficiency with a variety of business and technical programs (Excel, Word, Power Point, FileMaker and Outlook Calendar, WebEx), video conferencing equipment and website editing to complete information management/production tasks. Must possess and maintain valid driver license and undergo successful driver background check. Must be able to lift up to 20 lbs. Willingness and ability to work some evening and weekend hours for special events. Possess Notary Public License or obtain within 6 months.

Preferred Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree. Prior experience in academic setting and supporting academic program activities. Prior experience in event planning. Knowledge of Cornell policies, procedures and computer applications. No visa sponsorship is available for this position. No relocation assistance is available for this position.

University Job Title: Administrative Asst. IV
Level: D
Pay Rate Type: Hourly
Company: Contract College
Contact Name: Jessica Townley

How to Apply: If you or anyone you know may be interested in applying for this position, please access the Cornell Careers website at: https://hr.cornell.edu/jobs and search under ‘External Candidates’, “Staff, Librarian, Union and Temporary positions” for posting number WDR-00020533.

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