Executive Assistant (Executive Assistant III)

Agency Information The Texas Education Agency (TEA) oversees primary and secondary public education in Texas and is committed to improving outcomes for all public school students by providing leadership, guidance, and support to school systems across the state. Core Values We are Determined: We are committed and intentional in pursuing our primary purpose of improving outcomes for students. We are People‑Centered: We strive to attract, develop, and retain committed talent that reflects the diversity of Texas, with each individual contributing to our shared vision for students. We are Learners: We seek evidence, reflect on outcomes, and continuously improve in pursuit of excellence for students. We are Servant Leaders: We are public servants committed to improving opportunities for students and supporting those who serve them. Job Description The Office of School Programs provides resources, services, and program models to improve educational quality, access, and opportunity, from birth to career for all students in Texas. The Executive Assistant to the Deputy Commissioner of School Programs provides senior‑level high‑level day‑to‑day administrative support. This position works under minimal supervision, with latitude to use initiative and independent judgment. Responsibilities include aligning the Deputy Commissioner’s calendar and preparation to key priorities, managing all incoming and outgoing communication, improving current office business processes, and collaborating with key internal and external stakeholders. The role involves overseeing high‑level administrative operations and may plan, assign, and coordinate work with others. This role requires flexibility to adjust schedules and on‑site presence based on executive priorities, agency events, stakeholder engagements, and business needs. The Executive Assistant serves as a key coordinator for visitor interactions, meeting logistics, office operations, and day‑of administrative support, adapting quickly to evolving priorities and organizational needs. The candidate must be highly self‑motivated and have interest in providing behind‑the‑scenes support to an executive, with an orientation toward execution. The candidate must be highly organized, detail‑oriented, and proactive in a fast‑paced corporate environment while demonstrating a positive, customer‑service oriented demeanor. Travel: up to 10% travel, based on business needs to support program initiatives, collaboration, and operational priorities. Hybrid schedule: may require regular weekly in‑person support in downtown Austin and flexibility to meet changing business needs. Essential Functions Job duties are not limited to the essential functions mentioned below. Other functions may be performed as assigned. 1. Calendar, Engagement, and Priority Management Supports the Deputy Commissioner by proactively managing the calendar and appointments, coordinating logistics, transportation, and accommodation needs, preparing for engagements, and participating in meetings and events such as State Board of Education meetings, legislative hearings, travel, All‑Staff meetings, and committee and advisory meetings. Provides in‑person executive support for visitor and stakeholder interactions, meeting materials, event execution, and day‑of logistics. Performs calendar audits and internal reviews as needed. 2. Correspondence and Communication Management Reviews and organizes all incoming correspondence (emails, notices, agendas, voicemails, physical mail, etc.). Ensures all outgoing correspondence is approved, timely, and error‑free. Coordinates the collection, analysis, and preparation of materials in response to program information and report requests. Drafts emails, correspondence, and presentations. Proofreads internal and external documents such as grant applications, memos, and newsletters. Manages routing of correspondence for approval, dissemination, records management, filing, and assists with Public Information Requests. 3. Business Process Optimization Anticipates needs and develops new methods, procedures, standards, and promotions that enhance operational systems. Ensures core business operations and procedures are organized, correspondence is managed, filing and tracking systems are designed, requisitions approved, and clerical functions monitored. Provides office budget support by monitoring expenditures, analyzing variances, and ensuring corrections. Establishes, reviews, and evaluates administrative practices. Collaborates with Deputy Commissioner, Chief of Staff, and Office Manager to develop refined systems. Supports onboarding and training of administrative staff. 4. Relationship Management and Customer Service Collaborates daily with Senior and Executive Leadership Team members, office staff, agency staff, and external customers. Acts as point of contact for internal and external stakeholders including district leadership, state agencies, legislators, executive leadership teams, advisory committee members, parents, and the general public. Provides general support to visitors. Serves on internal committees to develop culture and values. Provides timely, courteous customer service. Qualifications Minimum Qualifications Education: Graduation from an accredited two‑year college or university. Experience: At least four (4) years of progressively responsible administrative, executive support, project coordination, or operations experience. Substitutions: Each additional year of related experience above the minimum may substitute for education on a year‑for‑year basis. Other Qualifications Share the belief that all Texas students can achieve at high levels and succeed in college, career, or the military. Experience supporting senior executives or executive leadership teams is preferred. Experience at a school district, educational service center, and/or state agency is preferred. Excellent professional written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills with a friendly, professional demeanor and customer‑service focus. Experience handling high‑level administrative issues with meticulous attention to detail, including reviewing and editing professional written work. Knowledge and willingness to learn office equipment and software, including Microsoft Office applications (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Outlook, SharePoint, OneDrive, Teams), Adobe Acrobat, Smartsheet, and conferencing software such as Zoom; ability to learn additional agency‑specific software. Organizational and project‑management skills to manage multiple priorities, think proactively under pressure, and meet deadlines. Ability to foster effective working relationships with a variety of individuals and groups internally and externally. Ability to handle sensitive issues with discretion and maintain confidentiality. Desire to self‑reflect, give/receive feedback, and continuously improve. Benefits TEA employees receive a comprehensive benefits package through the State of Texas and the Employee Retirement System of Texas (ERS), supporting health, financial security, and work‑life balance. Retirement through ERS and employer‑paid health insurance for eligible employees. Optional dental, vision, and dependent coverage. Paid state holidays, vacation leave, sick leave, and longevity pay. Wellness programs, employee assistance programs, and professional development opportunities. Eligibility for the federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. Military/Veteran Information Applicants eligible for Military Employment Preference will be considered in accordance with applicable state and federal laws and regulations. To explore how military experience may align with this role, review the Military Crosswalk in the State's Position Classification Plan. Additional Information TEA is an equal‑opportunity employer and complies with all applicable federal and state nondiscrimination laws. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, or veteran status. TEA does not sponsor or assume sponsorship of employment visas. This position requires passing a pre‑employment criminal background check before offer. #J-18808-Ljbffr Texas Education Agency