Administrative Assistant (College Advancement)

Job Description
Department:
Administrative Operations
Pay Rate Type:
Hourly
Employee Type:
Job Summary:College Advancement
Full-Time, Non-Exempt, Hourly, Staff Appointment

Propelled by visionary leadership, a compelling array of initiatives, and record fundraising in fiscal year 2017, Colby launched the largest fundraising campaign ever at a liberal arts college—$750 million—in October 2017. With the success of the Dare Northward campaign, the College will be known for a distinctive set of multidisciplinary academic offerings; an even more cohesive and accessible institutional culture for students from all backgrounds; the foremost art and athletic facilities in the educational sector; a welcoming, thriving, and dynamic surrounding community; increased global connections and resulting perspectives; the richest set of universal student experiences to enhance the Colby academic program; and the capacity to support the postgraduate success of every one of their students.

The administrative assistant provides administrative and clerical support within the Division of College Advancement. This position will be cross-trained to support a variety of functions within the department. The ideal candidate will be experienced in handling a wide range of administrative and support related tasks and will be able to work independently. We encourage inquiries from candidates who will contribute to the diversity of our College, including its cultural and ethnic diversity.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES :

• Perform significant data entry including record keeping, mail merging, filing, and proofing of alumni, parent, and guardian data
• Assist with preparing letters of intent, gift agreements, and new fund request forms and gift entry forms; ensure correspondence records are maintained in database
• Research, prioritize, and follow up on incoming donor-related issues and concerns, including those of sensitive or confidential nature; determine appropriate course of action, referral, or response
• Support the recruitment of new team members through liaising with HR, setting up interviews, and making travel arrangements
• Serve as a resource for team members to support their data management needs and interaction with the Raiser’s Edge database and Prospect Finder tool; assist with data management including data entry, queries, requests, and resolving issues
• Provide support for events and travel arrangements for internal and external constituencies including scheduling locations and catering, setting up for events, budgeting, and contract arrangements
• Provide general back up support for other College Advancement administrative assistants as appropriate
• Reconcile travel receipts and documentation for monthly expense reports
• Prepare, proofread, and print letters, emails, and other communications
• Assist in mailroom operations as needed; creating, printing, and posting a wide range of mailings
• Generate letters and send emails to alumni, parents, guardians, and other constituents
• Perform additional duties as assigned; duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice

QUALIFICATIONS :

• High school diploma or equivalent required; professional coursework or post-secondary education are a plus
• A minimum of 1–3 years of previous administrative professional experience
• Highly developed computer skills including extensive experience with data entry, word processing, and computer system operations; significant experience with the Microsoft Office Suite preferred
• Ability to quickly become proficient in the advancement database programs, as well as an interest in and ability to learn new programs
• Attention to detail and accuracy are critical
• Ability to handle confidential information tactfully
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills with a high level of motivation
• Talent to manage multiple projects and priorities while working within deadlines to achieve ambitious goals
• Strong business English, proofreading, and spelling skills
• Ability to work collaboratively in a fast moving environment and to make an impact through work as a member of a team and diverse community
• Must be able to work independently, exercise judgment, and manage projects with minimal supervision, as well as to adjust as new projects are assigned

KEY RELATIONSHIPS :

This position is one of eight administrative assistants who work as a team to support the Division of College Advancement and will have direct contact with division staff. The position will also interact with other departments, faculty, staff, students, alumni, parents, and visitors.

WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS :

General open office and campus environment. Position involves sitting, although frequent movement is necessary. Occasional lifting is required. Computer usage involving repetitive hand/wrist motion is also necessary.

TO APPLY :

Interested candidates should apply electronically by clicking the "Apply" button on the Colby Careers website. Please submit a letter of interest, resume, and the contact information of three professional references. Materials should be addressed to:

Administrative Assistant (College Advancement) - Search Committee
Office of Human Resources
Colby College
5500 Mayflower Hill
Waterville, ME 04901-8855