Administrative Support Manager

Location: University Park

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

* CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.

* CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.

* If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.

POSITION SPECIFICS

Are you a highly organized, proactive professional who thrives in a fast-paced academic environment? The Department of Energy and Mineral Engineering (EME) is seeking an Administrative Support Manager to serve as a key partner to the Department Head and help lead the day-to-day operations of the department.

In this role, you'll combine high level administrative support, HR coordination, and operational leadership, playing a critical role in keeping departmental activities running smoothly while supporting faculty, staff, and students.

What You'll Do

* Partner closely with the Department Head to manage priorities, communications, and key initiatives, including coordinating meetings, preparing materials, and tracking follow-up actions

* Lead and coordinate HR and academic administrative processes, including onboarding, faculty lifecycle activities (promotion & tenure, sabbaticals, annual reviews), and maintaining personnel records

* Oversee and manage faculty and academic search processes from start to finish, including postings, candidate coordination, interview logistics, and compliance requirements

* Serve as a central point of contact for faculty, staff, students, and external partners, helping to navigate processes and resolve complex administrative issues

* Support departmental planning and operations by tracking deadlines, improving processes, and developing systems that enhance efficiency and organization

* Supervise and guide administrative staff, ensuring effective coordination of workload, priorities, and departmental support functions

* Assist with operational needs such as event coordination, facilities planning, and administrative aspects of budgeting and resource tracking

MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS

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

Certifications:

None

Why This Role Matters

You'll be at the center of departmental operations-helping ensure that teaching, research, and outreach activities run efficiently while supporting a collaborative and high-performing environment. Your work will directly impact the experience of faculty, staff, and students.

What We're Looking For

* Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills

* Ability to manage multiple priorities and operate with discretion

* Experience in administrative operations, HR coordination, or project management

* Comfort working with a wide range of stakeholders in a dynamic environment

Why Join EME?

Be part of a department making an impact in energy, environment, and resource sustainability-while working in a collaborative, supportive environment where your contributions truly matter.

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.

SALARY & BENEFITS

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $51,000.00 - $74,000.00.

Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In…