Department Coordinator

Committee on Environment, Geography and Urbanization (CEGU) Department Coordinator

The Committee on Environment, Geography and Urbanization (CEGU), housed within the Division of the Social Sciences at the University of Chicago, is an interdisciplinary academic unit dedicated to advancing research, teaching, and public engagement on the societal, spatial, and environmental challenges shaping our world. CEGU brings together faculty and students from across disciplines to examine climate change, biodiversity loss, urbanization, environmental justice, sustainability, and other forms of environmental transformation through innovative scholarship and pedagogy.

As CEGU continues to expand its academic offerings, student enrollment, and institutional impact, strong administrative and operational support are essential to advancing the unit's mission and sustaining its continued growth.

Job Summary

Reporting to the Senior Department and Student Affairs Administrator, the Department Coordinator plays a vital role in supporting the continued growth and success of the Committee on Environment, Geography and Urbanization (CEGU). As CEGU expands its academic programs, research initiatives, public events, and partnerships, this position serves as a key operational resource for faculty, students, staff, and visitors. The Department Coordinator is responsible for ensuring the effective day-to-day functioning of the unit by coordinating administrative, financial, academic, and event-related activities. This role supports the delivery of CEGU's educational mission and contributes to a high-quality experience for students, faculty, and external partners.

Success in this position requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, initiative, adaptability, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic and collaborative academic environment. The Department Coordinator works across a broad range of activities, including financial administration, course and event support, faculty and visitor coordination, communications, and office operations, helping to advance CEGU's strategic goals and sustain its growing portfolio of programs and initiatives.

Responsibilities

Processes financial transactions, including honoraria, student awards, faculty research and workshop funds, reimbursements, and invoices.

Coordinates purchasing, accounts payable, reconciliations, and financial recordkeeping in accordance with University policies.

Coordinates office operations, including facilities requests, space management, supplies, and equipment needs.

Provides logistical support for courses, field trips, guest speakers, workshops, and academic events.

Supports faculty and instructional staff with course administration, Canvas updates, instructional materials, and related academic activities.

Coordinates complex travel, schedules, meetings, and reimbursements for visitors and guest faculty.

Manages multiple calendars, newsletters, contact lists, and other administrative communications.

Provides complex administrative and project support for unit leadership.

Maintains the leader's calendar.

Performs other related work as needed.

Minimum Qualifications

Education: Minimum requirements include vocational training, apprenticeships or the equivalent experience in related field (not typically required to have a four-year degree).

Work Experience: Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through 5-7 years of work experience in a related job discipline.

Preferred Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree.

Experience: Two to four years of administrative or related professional experience, preferably in higher education.

Technical Skills or Knowledge: Proficiency with Microsoft Office and cloud-based collaboration tools, such as Google Workspace, OneDrive, or Box. Proficiency managing financial transactions and reconciliations. Familiarity with higher education administrative systems such as Workday, Oracle, Concur, Interfolio, Stellic, or similar platforms. Basic website and social media management experience.

Preferred Competencies

Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills. Strong organizational, time management, and problem-solving abilities. Demonstrated attention to detail and accuracy. Manage multiple priorities and work independently and collaboratively. Understanding of supporting faculty, students, and academic programs.

Working Conditions

In-person work schedule. Occasional evening and weekend work may be required.

Application Documents

Resume/CV (required) Cover Letter describing interest in and qualifications for the position (required) Three Professional References Contact Information (required)

The University of Chicago uses AI-assisted tools to streamline and augment some recruitment processes; however, AI is not used to make hiring decisions. When applying, the document(s) MUST be uploaded via the My Experience page, in the section titled Application Documents of the application.

Job Family Administration & Management Role Impact Individual Contributor Scheduled Weekly Hours 37.5 Drug Test Required No Health Screen Required No Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required No Pay Rate Type Hourly FLSA Status Non-Exempt Pay Range $28.27 - $36.58The included pay rate or range represents the University's good faith estimate of the possible compensation offer for this role at the time of posting. Benefits Eligible YesThe University of Chicago offers a wide range of benefits programs and resources for eligible employees, including health, retirement, and paid time off. Information about the benefit offerings can be found in the Benefits Guidebook.