Administrative Assist III Location Washington, DC : The Talent Acquisition department hires qualified candidates to fill positions which contribute to the overall strategic success of Howard University. Hiring staff "for fit" makes significant contributions to Howard University's overall mission. BASIC FUNCTION: The purpose of this position is to perform a variety of advanced office/administrative support duties which require a thorough knowledge of the functions within the department. This position is responsible for providing information on policy and procedures. This position works closely with the Chair of the Department of Chemical Engineering in the College of Engineering and Architecture (CEA) and is responsible for assisting with administrative duties and special projects. SUPERVISORY ACCOUNTABILITY: Has responsibility or authority which is limited to the direction of student or temporary workers. NATURE AND SCOPE: Internal contacts include senior executives, faculty, students, and other staff within the university. External contacts are with executives at other institutions of higher education, public and private sector organizations. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES: Responsible for central coordination of all activities of the Department of Chemical Engineering. Prioritize workload to meet work unit operations. Review correspondence and draft responses as appropriate, or forward to the appropriate person for response. Prepare confidential correspondence and reports. Prepare minutes, agendas, and correspondence. Receive and screen telephone calls and visitors; assist visitor or caller by providing information regarding office/department policies or procedures; makes referrals to appropriate staff members as needed. Maintain and reconcile budgets for departmental accounts; monitors expenditures and perform simple analysis of accounts; prepare both special and recurring reports for supervisor. Design office filing systems. Search files and other information sources to answer questions or assemble data for supervisor and other staff. Use automation to remind supervisor and others of scheduled events, deadlines and other pending matters. Gather and compiles statistics and other materials for various reports. Review and process a variety of forms both online and hardcopy such as purchase requests. Prioritizes and arranges meetings, conferences and appointments for unit administrator; make necessary travel reservations and itineraries for faculty. Interprets and implements university and outside agency rules, regulations, policies, and procedures. Monitor and assist with the oversight of property management, security, safety, building maintenance services and related tasks as assigned and directed. Performs other job-related duties as assigned. CORE COMPETENCIES: Ability to interact and influence at the senior levels of an organization and to work collaboratively across functions, levels and departments toward shared objectives. Skill in the operation of computers, related software applications (MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Access. Ability to problem solve and make decisions. Ability to exercise discretion and ensure a high-level of confidentiality. Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing with a diverse population. The ability to establish and maintain effective harmonious work relations with faculty, staff, students and the public. Knowledge of administrative principles and practices. Knowledge of accounting and budgeting procedures and techniques. Knowledge of supervisory practices and principles. Skill in planning, analyzing and coordinating activities and establishing priorities. Ability to problem solve and make decisions. REQUIREMENTS: Bachelor's degree in administration, business or related area and 3-5 years of administrative experience. 10 years of related work experience may be substituted in lieu of educational qualifications.