What are the responsibilities and job description for the Administrative Coordinator | Political Science position at Notre Dame Data Science?
The University of Notre Dame is more than a workplace! We are a vibrant, mission-driven community where every employee is valued and supported. Rooted in a tradition of excellence and inspired by our Catholic character, Notre Dame is committed to fostering an environment of care that nurtures the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. Here, you will find a deep sense of belonging, a culture that prioritizes well-being, and the opportunity to grow your career while being a force for good in the world. Whether contributing to world-class research, shaping the student experience, or supporting the University’s mission in other ways, you will be part of a dedicated team working to make a meaningful impact on campus and beyond. At Notre Dame, your work matters, and so do you!The Department of Political Science is seeking a highly organized, service-oriented Administrative Coordinator to join a collaborative and engaged academic community. This role is central to the department’s daily operations and serves as a welcoming first point of contact for students, faculty, staff, and visitors.Working closely with the Department Administrator, faculty leadership, and undergraduate and graduate program teams, the Administrative Coordinator supports office operations, faculty needs, and academic and community events—helping ensure a smooth, responsive, and well-run department.This is a 10-month position, working August through May, with June and July off.Essential Duties & ResponsibilitiesOffice & Department Operations
- Serve as the primary receptionist and first point of contact, providing friendly, professional assistance in person, by phone, and via email
- Manage correspondence, mail, shipping/receiving, records, and departmental files in accordance with University policies
- Oversee office supply ordering, inventory, and distribution, including department materials and graduation items
- Provide basic technology and AV support for meetings and classrooms (Zoom, PowerPoint, conference room setup)
- Support department meetings with on-site assistance, sign-ins, and vote tallying
- Maintain office key records and submit facilities and maintenance requests
- Assist with special projects and departmental initiatives as needed
- Plan and support departmental events such as receptions, tailgates, lectures, and student engagement activities
- Coordinate the annual commencement ceremony in collaboration with undergraduate leadership, including logistics, communications, materials, and on-site support
- Assist with undergraduate programming such as guest speakers, information sessions, and special events
- Order awards, plaques, gifts, and materials for recognition and senior events
- Support committee meetings, classroom visits, and program lectures
- Assist with faculty, visiting faculty, and postdoctoral paperwork, including immigration-related documentation
- Support faculty searches by scheduling interviews and assisting with onboarding
- Prepare and process expense reports, reimbursements, honoraria, and travel arrangements
- Maintain and update the department website with news, events, faculty profiles, and announcements
- Serve as the primary contact for website inquiries and recommend content improvements
- Draft and distribute departmental communications as needed
- Provide administrative support to undergraduate leadership and coordinators
- Assist with internships, certificates, events, newsletters, and student communications Support budget tracking and payment processing for undergraduate programs
- Provide flexible administrative assistance to department leadership, program directors, and coordinators across undergraduate and graduate programs
- 1-2 years of administrative experience
- Excellent organizational and communication skills, with the ability to respond to multiple tasks and questions with frequent interruptions.
- Self-motivated with the ability to take initiative, reprioritize tasks, and learn quickly.
- Ability to maintain the confidentiality of student files and personnel issues.
- Strong knowledge of grammar, punctuation, and spelling.
- Ability to learn and negotiate new platforms quickly, in addition to experience with Word, Excel, and various web browsers.
- Proactive, service-oriented attitude with the ability to work collaboratively with diverse groups of people.