EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT

Position Number: 22087870
County: Pulaski
Posting End Date: 8/19/2026
Anticipated Starting Salary: $57,351

Department of Agriculture

As the largest industry in Arkansas, the Arkansas Department of Agriculture is dedicated to the development and implementation of policies and programs for Arkansas agriculture and forestry to keep its farmers and ranchers competitive in national and international markets while ensuring safe food, fiber, and forest products for the citizens of the state and nation. The Department is organized into five Divisions: Forestry Division, Livestock and Poultry Division, Natural Resources Division, Plant Industries Division, and Shared Services Division.

Position Information

Job Series: Administrative Support

Classification: Executive Assistant – Independent

Class Code: PAS08I

Pay Grade: SGS07

Salary Range: $57,351 - $84,879

Hiring Manager:

Rachel Smith

View email address on aiapply.co

Job Summary

The Executive Assistant provides high-level administrative support to senior leadership within a department. This role is critical in ensuring the efficient operation of the agency by managing executive schedules, coordinating internal and external communications, and assisting with the preparation of reports, presentations, and other essential documents. The Executive Assistant will handle complex administrative tasks, organize meetings, manage confidential information, and assist in various special projects. The ideal candidate will be highly organized, detail-oriented, and capable of managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Primary Responsibilities

Manage and coordinate the calendars of senior leadership, scheduling meetings, appointments, and travel in accordance with priorities. Ensure executives are well-prepared for meetings, with all necessary documents, agendas, and materials in hand. Organize and coordinate internal and external meetings, ensuring that all logistical details (e.g., location, attendees, equipment) are addressed. Prepare meeting agendas, take minutes, and follow up on action items as needed. Represent the executive in a professional manner, demonstrating strong interpersonal skills in all communications. Make travel arrangements for executives, including booking flights, hotels, ground transportation, and preparing travel itineraries. Ensure travel arrangements are cost-effective and comply with state policies and procedures. Serve as the point of contact between senior leadership and internal/external stakeholders, handling inquiries and providing timely responses. Draft and proofread correspondence, memos, emails, and reports on behalf of executives, ensuring clarity and professionalism. Maintain clear and open communication channels, facilitating the exchange of information between departments and teams. Prepare, edit, and proofread a wide variety of documents, including reports, presentations, and official communications. Maintain organized files (both digital and physical) for easy retrieval of documents and confidential records. Handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion, ensuring that data is stored securely and shared only with authorized personnel. Maintain inventory of office supplies, ensuring timely ordering and stocking of necessary materials. Greet visitors and provide assistance as needed, ensuring a professional and welcoming environment. Manage incoming calls, direct them to appropriate staff, and take messages when necessary.

Knowledge and Skills

Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to interact with individuals at all levels within the agency and externally. Proficiency in drafting clear, concise emails, reports, memos, and other professional documents. Strong interpersonal skills, capable of maintaining positive relationships with staff, leadership, and external stakeholders. Strong sense of professionalism, with the ability to manage confidential and sensitive information with discretion and in accordance with state guidelines. Ability to handle confidential matters effectively and with a high level of integrity. Proactive and resourceful, with the ability to anticipate needs, identify problems, and provide solutions. Advanced skills in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook) and knowledge of other office management software. High level of attention to detail, ensuring accuracy in all written communication, scheduling, and record-keeping tasks. Ability to think critically and make decisions quickly in support of leadership, using sound judgment. Friendly, approachable, and professional demeanor when interacting with visitors, staff, and external stakeholders. Ability to manage stressful situations and provide effective solutions while maintaining a positive attitude.

Minimum Qualifications

Four (4) years of experience of progressive responsibilities in administrative roles, or completion of studies that reflect writing skills and analytical duties.

Licensure/Certifications

N/A OTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.

The State of Arkansas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.