Office Assistant- Community Education

Office Assistant

Under general supervision, performs basic clerical and office support duties; updates files, records and computer database; provides information and assistance to customers.

Essential duties and responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Performs basic clerical and administrative support duties for assigned work group within scope of authority and training, and in compliance with MPS policies and quality standards; duties may vary according to job assignment.
• Updates and maintains a variety of electronic and paper files, records, reports and documents.
• Receives documents, technical records and applications; checks documents for validity and accuracy of information; files paperwork, and enters data into MPS computer systems; reports discrepancies to supervisor.
• Provides a variety of clerical and office assistance duties; makes and distributes copies; schedules meetings; processes mail, correspondence, invoices and other documents.
• Updates statistical information, reports and technical documents.
• Accesses MPS files, and locates information for clients, staff, local agencies and others as authorized.
• Prepares correspondence; compiles and distributes information packets and other communications.
• Provides customer service, information and assistance to visitors and others having business with MPS; responds to requests for information within the scope of authority.
• Performs basic bookkeeping functions; collects special fees and payments; maintains accounts for budget, payroll, timekeeping, purchasing, transportation, enrollment, attendance, registration, records requests, and special program functions.
• Answers incoming telephone calls and directs the caller to the correct person or work group, or takes and relays messages as appropriate.
• Orders, receives and distributes supplies and equipment.
• Cross-trains in a wide variety of clerical and office support duties.
• Demonstrates courteous and cooperative behavior when interacting with students, clients, visitors, and MPS staff; acts in a manner that promotes a harmonious and effective workplace environment.
• Enthusiastically promotes the Superintendent's goals and priorities in compliance with all policies and procedures.
• Maintains absolute confidentiality of work-related issues, records and MPS information.
• Other duties or tasks may be assigned on an as-needed basis At times may be required to work outside normal business hours and work extended hours to accomplish requirements of the position.

Minimum qualifications: High School Diploma or GED equivalent; AND one (1) year of clerical and computer experience; OR an equivalent combination of education, training and experience as determined by Human Resources.

Knowledge of: Basic office practices and procedures. Customer service principles, protocols and methods. Applicable policies, procedures and regulations covering specific areas of assignment. Basic principles of record keeping and records management. Business and personal computers, including spreadsheet, word processing, and database software applications.

Skill in: Operating standard office equipment, and business computers with standard software applications. Entering information into a computer system with speed and accuracy. Making mathematic calculations with speed and accuracy. Providing effective customer service, and dealing tactfully and courteously with the public. Following verbal and written instructions. Establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with co-workers.

License and certification requirements: A valid Minnesota State Driver's License may be required.

Physical demands and working environment: Work is performed in a standard office environment which requires occasionally lifting such articles as file boxes or heavier materials with help from others and/or lifting and carrying light objects frequently. A job in this category may require walking or standing to a significant degree or may involve sitting most of the time with long periods of computer work and heavy phone usage.

Commitment to diversity: Diversity is one of Minneapolis Public Schools core values and is essential to our goal of putting children first and making them college-ready. Diversity of our workforce provides us with a competitive advantage and allows us to better understand, communicate with and educate our diverse student body. Minneapolis Public Schools will not deny anyone the opportunity for training or employment because of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender or gender identity, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, disability, sexual orientation, age, family care leave status, or veteran status. Minneapolis Public Schools strongly encourages diverse candidates to apply.