Job Description

The Department of Biological Sciences at the University of Southern Maine is seeking a detail-oriented and highly organized Administrative Specialist to join our team.

This position supports the daily operations of the department, including managing communications, coordinating schedules, maintaining records, assisting with budget preparation, and assisting faculty and students. The ideal candidate will have strong administrative skills, excellent communication abilities, and a commitment to supporting a dynamic academic environment. Join us in fostering a collaborative and engaging atmosphere for scientific learning and research.

The Department of Biological Sciences offers a comprehensive educational experience, combining rigorous academic programs with diverse research opportunities. Students can pursue undergraduate degrees with tracks in general biology, human biology, biotechnology, and teacher certification, as well as a flexible graduate program tailored to individual interests. The department's faculty, all holding PhDs, engage in research across various disciplines, including animal behavior, developmental biology, functional biology, genetics, immunology, marine ecology, microbiology, neurobiology, and plant ecology.

Collaboration within a team is essential, along with a commitment to exceptional customer service, maintaining confidentiality, filling administrative coverage gaps as needed, and managing multiple tasks effectively. The ability to prioritize and navigate a diverse environment with frequent interruptions is crucial. The position seeks an individual with sound judgment and initiative because work is typically carried out under general guidance rather than specific instructions.

Located on our Portland Campus, this full-time position will pay $19.61/hour (non-negotiable) for a new hire or the appropriate transfer rate for a current employee with the University of Maine System.

This position provides a terrific opportunity to pursue a bachelor’s or advanced degree through the university’s generous tuition waiver benefit.

The University of Southern Maine offers highly competitive benefits for full-time and eligible part-time employees that includes (but is not limited to):

13 paid holidays plus earned vacation time and sick time
Health, dental and vision insurance
Low-cost short-term disability insurance and employer-paid long-term disability insurance
Employer-paid basic life insurance and supplemental life insurance
A tuition waiver program for employees and their spouse or dependent child(ren)
A 403(b)-retirement plan with employer contribution
Free access to the METRO system, including the Husky Line with service between our Portland and Gorham campuses
To learn more, please review the Benefits Information Summary.

The University of Southern Maine is a vibrant academic community located in the greater Portland, Maine area, including campuses in Portland, Gorham, Lewiston, and online. USM is part of the University of Maine System and offers a comprehensive array of undergraduate and graduate programs, emphasizing hands-on learning, community engagement, and interdisciplinary collaboration. With a highly engaged student-centered learning environment, USM is a steward of higher education, helping drive the economic, cultural, and civic life in the communities where our campuses are located and beyond. USM is committed to providing expanded access to high-quality education that elevates economic opportunity and contributes significantly to the vitality of a diverse society. To learn more about USM, visit About Our University.

The University of Southern Maine fosters a welcoming and supportive campus environment that respects and appreciates diverse perspectives, enhancing teaching, learning, personal growth, and overall institutional achievement. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds who share our dedication to academic excellence and the enrichment of our community.

We are dedicated to our Service Promise, Student Focused Every Day and seek a team member who embraces this commitment and upholds our core values of Respect & Care, Integrity, Equity, and Responsiveness.

Required Qualifications:

High school diploma or equivalent (G.E.D.) or international degree equivalency
1+ years of administrative support experience
Excellent communication and customer service skills
Computer proficiency, including experience working with spreadsheets
To apply, click on ‘Apply Now’ or visit our USM Careers Page and submit the following:

Cover Letter
Resume/Curriculum Vitae
Finalist candidates will be asked to provide a list of the names and contact information for references
This position will remain open until filled.

We are not able to consider applicants who require Visa sponsorship support.

Appropriate background screening will be conducted for the successful candidate.