Job Summary

The Department of Biological Sciences is composed of approximately 27 full-time faculty and 33 lecturers with 35 teaching associates and instructional assistants, 3 office staff, 1 student services professional and 8 technical staff.

The Department employs approximately 30 work study and student assistants each semester. The Department has approximately 1300 undergraduate majors in 5 degrees and options and 70 graduate students pursuing the Master of Science degree in either Biology or Microbiology.

The Administrative Assistant is the initial contact in the Department of Biological Sciences for students, faculty, administrators, and the public.

Approximately 2600 students enroll in Biological Sciences classes each semester, many of whom contact this office for answers to questions and assistance with problems concerning enrollment, Department / University policies and procedures, or directions.

Key Responsibilities

• Provides general information regarding the Department and courses to students and the public. Directs inquiries when appropriate to staff, faculty, or other departments on campus.
• Processes and monitors duplication of course and office materials.
• Distributes Department mail and general Department / College / University informational materials. Maintains Department Bulletin Boards and keeps the Department Website up to date via the College webmaster.

Oversees package receipt and distribution.

• Collects and maintains course syllabi, office hours, field trip and laboratory safety forms.
• Oversees students working in department office and package room.
• Coordinates activities related to the weekly seminar series and faculty hiring events.

Knowledge Skills and Abilities

Experience in general office procedures and in working with the public is essential, effective problem-solving and interpersonal skills required.

Prior experience in an academic office is preferred. Comprehensive knowledge of University Organizational structure and policies and procedures governing enrollment (adding and withdrawing from classes, educational leave, etc).

Comprehensive knowledge of word processing, spreadsheets and desktop publishing software (Microsoft Office Suite, Adobe suite preferred.)

Ability to effectively communicate information, policies, and procedures to students, faculty, staff, and the general public.

Ability to work patiently and efficiently in a busy office setting with constant interruptions. Ability to organize and prioritize tasks (especially those that require faculty response) so that deadlines are met.

Ability to work within a culturally and ethnically diverse campus community. Ability to communicate clearly in English is essential in order to understand and respond to questions both by telephone and in-person, relay clear and accurate messages to faculty, staff, students and the general public.

Ability to communicate with an ethnically and culturally diverse campus community. Ability to follow all university policies, procedures, and guidelines including but not limited to safety, civility, information security, and non-discrimination policies and procedures.

Ability to contribute to a positive university experience for each and every student and assist in achieving the university's commitment to a "vision of excellence."

Education and Experience

• Equivalent to three years of administrative support experience required.
• Two years of college courses preferred.

Physical Summary

Sedentary work - Involves mainly sitting. Walking and standing are minimal. Lifting is limited to lightweight objects. (10 pounds or less).

Licenses / Certificates

A valid CA driver's license preferred.

Department

Biological Sciences

Classification

Administrative Support Assistant II

Compensation

Salary placement is determined by the education, experience, and qualifications the candidate brings to the position, internal equity, and the hiring department’s fiscal resources.

Hiring Range : The hiring range for this position is $3,505 - $3,751 per month commensurate with candidate's education, experience, skills, and training.

CSU Classification Salary Range : The CSU Classification Salary Range for this position is $3,505 - $5,159 per month.

Last updated : 2024-04-23