Temporary - Harvard Summer School Operations Assistant | Onsite

Description:
Organizes and implements administrative systems and procedures. Serves as principal source of information on unit, project or program. Gathers and maintains data for and assists in preparing reports, often using a variety of computer software. Prepares and maintains financial, personnel, administrative, student records. Provides for smooth day to day flow of communications within the department. May compose, proofread, edit and prepare correspondence, reports and other materials using word processing, spreadsheets and or databases. Arranges for use of facilities and plans meetings, conferences and seminars. Contributes to unit goals by accomplishing clerical or administrative duties as required. Ability to work independently with minimal supervision, to handle complex and confidential information. Competency using a variety of office computer software. Requires intermediate to advanced knowledge of email calendar, word processing, spreadsheets. Prior office experience required.


The Harvard Summer School (HSS) Operations Assistant provides essential logistical and administrativ
e support during the peak summer term. This temporary, part-time role helps ensure smooth execution of move-in and move-out, student check-ins, special events, and general summer office operations. By handling time-sensitive physical and clerical tasks, the Operations Assistant enables professional staff to focus on urgent and high-priority program needs.


Key Responsibilities


Move-In / Move-Out Prep
• Assist with key inventory, distribution, collection, and issue resolution.
• Prepare materials for move-in and move-out (e.g., envelope stuffing, assembling packets, labeling).
• Deliver letters, packets, and supplies to residence halls and other campus locations.
• Transport emergency linens and related materials to and from Harvard Student Agencies (HSA) and other designated locations.


Student Check-Ins & Event Logistics
• Provide day-of support for student check-in across programs, including line management and information directing.
• Support special events (e.g., orientations, receptions) through setup and breakdown of tables, chairs, and equipment.
• Post and remove signage as directed.
• Backfill vacant volunteer assignments (e.g., greeting, directing traffic, handing out materials).
• Transport supplies and equipment between buildings as needed.


Office Setup, Maintenance & Breakdown
• Assist with summer office setup, including unpacking, organizing, and arranging materials and equipment.
• Support end-of-summer office breakdown, including packing, labeling, and storing materials.
• Perform tasks that may involve heavy lifting, carrying, and moving boxes, equipment, and furniture.


General Administrative Support
• Provide basic clerical support (e.g., copying, collating, assembling packets, organizing supplies).
• Perform ad hoc messenger duties to deliver time-sensitive materials across campus.
• Support the HSS operations team with other duties assigned to ensure efficient program operations.


Minimum Qualifications
• High school diploma or equivalent; some college coursework preferred.
• Ability to perform physical tasks, including frequent walking, carrying, and lifting boxes or equipment (with or without reasonable accommodation).
• Strong reliability and punctuality; ability to adhere to a fixed schedule and occasional weekend daytime hours.
• Demonstrated ability to follow detailed instructions and complete tasks accurately and on time.
• Good interpersonal and communication skills; comfortable interacting with students, staff, and visitors.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.


Preferred Qualifications
• Prior experience in event support, facilities operations, residence life, or administrative support in an academic or customer service setting.
• Familiarity with Harvard campus or large institutional environments.
• Demonstrated flexibility and problem-solving skills during busy or time-pressured periods.


Working Conditions
• On-campus, in-person role, with move-ins on June 20, June 21st, July 5th, July 12th, and July 19th.
• Work involves frequent movement between buildings and outdoor travel around campus.
• Regular handling of materials, supplies, boxes, and equipment; some tasks involve heavy lifting.
• Peak workload during move-in, move-out, student check-ins, and major events; occasional weekend daytime commitments.


Pay rate $16-18. Candidate must be clear a background screen due to work with minors: Identity, Social Security, Criminal, and a CORI form due to dorm access. 7 hours/day, 14 hours/week; ability to adhere to a fixed schedule and occasional weekend daytime hours; Must be available for move-in dates - 6/20, 6/21, 7/5, 7/12, 7/19. Preferred Qualifications: Prior experience in event support, facilities operations, residence life, or administrative support in an academic or customer service setting; Familiarity with Harvard campus or large institutional environments; Demonstrated flexibility and problem-solving skills during busy or time-pressured periods. Working Conditions: On-campus, in-person role, with move-ins on June 20, June 21st, July 5th, July 12th, and July 19th; Work involves frequent movement between buildings and outdoor travel around campus; Regular handling of materials, supplies, boxes, and equipment; some tasks involve heavy lifting; Peak workload during move-in, move-out, student check-ins, and major events; occasional weekend daytime commitments.

#ExecAssistant1

Why TalentBurst?
At TalentBurst, we deliver more than talent, we deliver outcomes. We partner with you to move quickly and connect you to opportunities aligned with your skills and long term growth.

Backed by precision, transparency, and results, we connect top talent with leading organizations through trusted partnerships.

We offer competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, vision, and retirement options.

TalentBurst is an equal opportunity employer committed to an inclusive and diverse workforce.