Administrative Support Manager - Cell and Biological Systems

Application Instructions

Current Penn State employee: complete internal application through Workday. Current Penn State student: complete student application through Workday. External applicants: click Apply and complete application process for external applicants.

The Administrative Support Manager oversees the administrative activities in the Department of Cell and Biological Systems; establishes priorities; develops, executes, and assesses processes and procedures; solves problems and approves completed work; prepares, controls, and manages budget; coordinates human resources, faculty recruitment and promotion and tenure functions; plans, publicizes, and coordinates special events; provides assistance and collaborates with other units and staff to achieve unit goals;

compiles and analyzes data for a variety of reports and programs.

• Lead staff members, including hiring, development, and performance management
• Oversee the administrative processes for department, establish and assign priorities, oversee workflows, ensure schedules are maintained and deadlines are met, and develop procedures to ensure operational effectiveness
• Manage budgets for assigned areas; approve expenditures, prepare financial and operational reports, and partner with financial offices to plan and forecast short and long‑range budgets
• Implement unit‑wide projects/initiatives including recommending action steps, leading communication plans, contributing to goals and objectives, and assessing effectiveness
• Direct and coordinate facility usage including room reservations, building access, and safety policies; serve as liaison to communicate facility needs
• Plan, lead, and direct activities related to event management; develop itineraries, budgets, objectives, and assessment procedures
• Collaborate with internal unit and university‑wide offices to ensure compliance related to safety, health, risk management, and records; interpret and enforce adherence to administrative and academic policies
• Coordinate human resources administration activities including form processing, payroll transactions, and employee record maintenance; provide input and recommendations related to staffing needs for assigned area
• Oversee the collection and analysis of data or information to be used in reports, unit communications, and proposals
• Coordinate unit or department‑wide processes such as hiring, promotion and tenure, visas, and faculty searches; ensure documents are accurate and complete and deadlines are met; translate policies and best practices into unit‑specific procedures
• Represent the department with both internal and external stakeholders and strategically foster relationships
• Interview, train, and direct the work of other support staff, students, and wage payroll personnel
• Use data‑driven assessment to identify areas of improvement, optimize operational effectiveness, and make recommendations to leadership on process and procedure changes
• Provide input into the unit's strategic plan and long‑term initiatives; identify growth opportunities

Bachelor's Degree; 8+ years of relevant experience, including 3+ years of supervisory experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted. Required

Certifications:

none.

This position requires PA State Police Criminal Background Check, PA Child Abuse History Clearance Form, and Federal (FBI) Fingerprint Criminal Background Check. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment visa.

The salary range for this position is $51,000.00 - $74,000.00.

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full‑time employees designed to support personal and professional well‑being. Employees enjoy comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, robust retirement plans, and paid time off including holidays, vacation, and sick time. A generous 75% tuition discount is available to employees and eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, visit the Benefits Page.

Penn State is an equal‑opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814‑865‑1473.

The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness and a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives and opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive.