Executive Assistant I

Job Responsibilities

The South Carolina State Election Commission (SEC) is seeking a highly organized, professional, and motivated Executive Assistant to provide executive-level administrative and strategic support to the Executive Director. This position serves as a key liaison between agency leadership, Commission members, state and local government officials, and external stakeholders.

The ideal candidate will possess exceptional organizational, communication, and analytical skills and will thrive in a fast-paced environment where discretion, professionalism, and sound judgment are essential. This position requires the ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining strict confidentiality and supporting the mission of ensuring fair, accurate, and secure elections throughout South Carolina.

Position Summary

Reporting directly to the Executive Director, the Executive Assistant performs advanced administrative and executive support functions requiring independent judgment, discretion, and initiative. The position coordinates executive communications, conducts research and analysis, prepares reports and briefing materials, supports Commission activities, manages confidential information, and assists with agency-wide initiatives and special projects.

• Administrative Support
• Provide comprehensive administrative support to the Executive Director to ensure efficient and effective daily operations.
• Manage executive calendars, appointments, meetings, and scheduling priorities.
• Coordinate travel arrangements, conference registrations, and related logistics.
• Screen, prioritize, and respond to inquiries directed to the Executive Director.
• Prepare correspondence, reports, presentations, briefing materials, and other executive documents.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for matters requiring Executive Director review or action.
• Strategic Communications and Research
• Conduct research, gather information, and analyze issues affecting agency operations, election administration, and legislative initiatives.
• Prepare reports, memoranda, presentations, and briefing materials to support executive decision-making.
• Draft and edit correspondence, talking points, and other communications on behalf of the Executive Director.
• Assist with strategic communications initiatives and organizational priorities.
• Coordinate communications between agency divisions to facilitate information sharing and project completion.
• Commissioners Support
• Serve as liaison to members of the State Election Commission and other governmental stakeholders.
• Coordinate Commission meetings, workshops, retreats, and special events.
• Prepare meeting agendas, supporting materials, minutes, and follow-up documentation.
• Maintain effective communication with county election officials, partner agencies, elected officials, and external stakeholders.
• Ensure timely distribution of information and follow-up on Commission actions and assignments.
• Special Projects and Agency Initiatives
• Assist with the planning, coordination, and implementation of special projects and strategic initiatives.
• Track project progress, deadlines, and deliverables.
• Coordinate agency events, conferences, meetings, and training activities.
• Gather and compile information for reports, presentations, and executive briefings.
• Provide administrative and logistical support for agency-wide initiatives as assigned.
• Administrative Operations and Records Management
• Maintain confidential files, records, correspondence, and official agency documents.
• Ensure records are maintained in accordance with agency policies and records retention requirements.
• Organize and maintain electronic and physical filing systems.
• Monitor and coordinate administrative processes supporting the Executive Director's Office.
• Handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion, professionalism, and sound judgment.
• Additional Responsibiliti es
• Provide support to agency leadership and management staff as assigned.
• Assist with emergency preparedness, election-related activities, and special assignments during election cycles.
• Perform other related duties as assigned to support the mission and operations of the South Carolina State Election Commission.
  

Become a part of our dedicated team and help shape the future of elections in South Carolina!

Minimum And Additional Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Public Administration, Business Administration, Political Science, Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, or a related field. At least five (5) years of progressively responsible administrative, executive support, project coordination, or public administration experience. A equivalent combination of education and relevant experience may be considered.

Additional Requirements

• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with diplomacy and discretion.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and commitment to customer service.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Occasional extended work hours and travel will be required, particularly during election cycles.
  
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working in South Carolina state government or a public-sector environment.
• Knowledge of state government operations, board or commission processes, and administrative procedures.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to conduct research, analyze information, and prepare professional reports and correspondence.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace, virtual meeting platforms, and electronic communications.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and maintain strict confidentiality.
  
  

Additional Comments

Additional Comments

The South Carolina State Election Commission is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions including, but not limited, to lactation), national origin, age (40 or older), disability or genetic information.

Supplemental questions are considered part of your official application. Any misrepresentation will result in your disqualification from employment. Please complete the state application to include all current and previous work history and education. A resume will not be accepted nor reviewed to determine if an applicant has met the qualifications for the position.

The South Carolina Election Commission offers an exceptional benefits package for full time (FTE) employees:

• Health, dental, vision, long-term disability, and life insurance for employees, spouse, and children. Click here for additional information.
• 15 days annual (vacation) leave per year
• 15 days sick leave per year
• 13 paid holidays
• Paid parental leave
• S.C. Deferred Compensation Program available ( S.C. Deferred Compensation )
• Retirement benefit choices *
• State Retirement Plan ( SCRS )
• State Optional Retirement Program ( State ORP )
• Enrollment in one of the listed plans is required for all FTE employees; please refer to the contribution section of hyperlinked retirement sites for the current contribution rate of gross pay.