Program Specialist

Program Specialist

The University Senate, a University-wide legislature representing faculty, students, administration, researchers, librarians, administrative staff, and alumni, makes policy on a range of issues that affect the entire University or more than one school. It seeks a motivated Program Specialist to manage the work of committees, undertake research, oversee programming and operations, and contribute to other projects as needed, with the ultimate aim of enhancing awareness, understanding of, participation in and engagement with the work of the University Senate. The Program Specialist will work closely with the Senate Director across a range of areas and will contribute to the development of the infrastructure required to advance Senate work.

Responsibilities

1. Manages a number of Senate committees, working closely with committee chair(s) and the Senate Director:

• Planning the broad work of the committee and any specific initiatives over the academic year;
• Undertaking research to inform committee work on specific issues as needed;
• Organizing and staffing committee meetings, drafting materials, reports, and presentations;
• Managing the related websites.

2. Undertakes research and data analyses:

• Performing research and capturing data to inform key initiatives;
• Undertaking analyses and creating graphs, visualizations, and infographics to clearly convey essential information;
• Compiling reports for presentation to meetings of the Senate plenary.

3. Oversees programming and operations, including monthly plenaries, town halls, and other initiatives:

• Planning an annual calendar and maintaining a detailed schedule of upcoming events;
• Managing detailed logistics and the creation and distribution of event communication, materials and registration;
• Assisting in financial planning, including managing and tracking expenses, and reconciling accounts.

4. Performing other duties, related projects, and assignments as necessary. The Program Specialist will report directly to the Senate Director and will supervise program assistants. S/he has the ability to work independently.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree and/or equivalent related experience required.
• Excellent interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills, with a strong customer-service focus.
• Strong computer skills, proficient in Microsoft Office and Google Suite (Gmail, Drive, Docs).
• Excellent organizational skills, extremely detail-oriented, and works well under pressure and tight deadlines.
• Possesses the ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously and adapt to changing directions.
• Exercises discretion and excellent judgment.
• Possesses a demonstrated commitment to making the complex understandable and to facilitate engagement with critical issues.

Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran

Columbia University is committed to the hiring of qualified local residents.