Faculty Assistant & Program Coordinator in Cambridge

By working at Harvard University, you join a vibrant community that advances Harvard's world-changing mission in meaningful ways, inspires innovation and collaboration, and builds skills and expertise. We are dedicated to creating a diverse and welcoming environment where everyone can thrive.

Are you drawn to the community and energy of being on a college campus? Can you see yourself supporting distinguished academics? If so, consider joining our team as a Faculty Assistant and Program Coordinator at Harvard Kennedy School. Faculty Assistants work closely with faculty to make valued contributions in support of Harvard Kennedy School's mission to educate leaders who make a difference in the world. You will also support the Global Food Systems Program.

What you'll do:

• Manage course delivery: get copyright clearances for course readings and post them on Canvas (online course website), track student work, liaise with guests, coordinate audiovisual support, organize in-class activities, manage office hours for faculty.
• Serve as principal source of information on established unit/project/program policies and advise faculty, students or staff; including overseeing the teaching team (of teaching fellows and course assistants).
• Communicate professionally with internal and external stakeholders on behalf of the faculty, possibly assist with faculty recruitment or promotion processes.
• Manage complex calendars, travel arrangements, and expense reimbursements.
• Proofread documents, retrieve research resources, and submit materials for publishing and distribution on campus and globally.
• Plan events: communicate with guests, reserve rooms, order catering, and manage all logistics.
• Move projects forward and continually look for ways to leverage faculty time.
• Assist in the planning and teaching of degree program classes as well as executive education programs.
• Work with course coaches and research assistants on various cases and simulations that demand great attention to detail, effective communication, and organizational flexibility.
• Assist in growing the newly established Program in Global Food Systems by setting up programmatic meetings for faculty across campus working in the food space.
• Coordinate with student groups in agriculture and food when they host events and invite outside speakers.
• Coordinate the annual PAPSAC conference - coordinate space and room reservations, catering, communication, marketing, travel, event set-up, event registration, greet guests, coordinate security when necessary, manage event audiovisual needs.
• Manage programmatic reimbursements for guests and other stakeholders. Fulfil programmatic administrative needs as necessary.

Who you are:

• You set a high bar for yourself with attention to detail and strong customer service.
• You can communicate with various different social styles and adjust to the working styles of others when necessary.
• You are proactive and can anticipate the needs of your role.
• You know how to be helpful even when you don't have the answer.
• Adaptability is second nature; with constant change, you are flexible and receptive to feedback.
• You are comfortable juggling competing priorities, reporting to multiple supervisors, and accommodating a broad range of work-styles.
• You work well independently and also contribute as a valuable team member.
• People describe you as reliable; you always follow through and strive to surpass expectations.
• You've worked in an office environment before and are proficient with Microsoft Office.

Why you'll love this job:

• Make an impact helping others achieve their goals by utilizing your administrative skills.
• Build relationships with a diverse group of faculty and colleagues in a collaborative culture.
• Practice on-the-job learning in a supportive environment with continuous professional training.
• Grow your career here; be exposed to the inner workings of a world-renowned public policy and leadership school.
• Maintain work-life balance.
• Access the numerous benefits of Harvard including generous time off and retirement contribution, taking a course or achieving an advanced degree for as little as $40/class, and much more!

Sound like a great fit? Check out more about the work culture at Harvard Kennedy School and submit your resume and cover letter via Careers@Harvard.

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications: A minimum of 2 years of related experience including demonstrated office administration, event planning and customer service experience. Relevant internships will count toward experience.

Additional Qualifications and Skills: Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and internet tools, with a willingness to learn new technologies. Demonstrated experience prioritising tasks to changing needs and seeing tasks to completion in a timely manner. Prior academic research and writing experience. Interest in research related to the food system. Proficient written and spoken English. Bachelor's degree is not required but a plus.

Additional Information

Appointment End Date: This is a fully benefits eligible term appointment through June 30, 2027, with the possibility of renewal. Standard Hours/Schedule: 35 hours per week. Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position.

EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement: Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes.