Job Summary

The Senior Program Administration Specialist will provide a wide range of administrative support for Bowen Laboratory and the S-BRITE (Steel Bridge Research Inspection Training and Engineering) Center and associated stakeholder customers. Maximize the effectiveness of operational processes and communications. Serve as a liaison with various research agencies, state departments, and other external sponsors. Advise the Director on policy, procedural, and operational issues of the Center. Facilitate communication, plan events, organize course offering, draft and edit various documents, schedule meetings, and manage the Director’s calendars. Manage special projects involving independent research and collaboration with the CoE offices and all levels of internal management and staff. Manage travel for Director and all external sponsors. Lead efforts associated with web page development, professional promotional activities, and student engagement efforts. Assist and/or purchase items as needed related to the operation and mission of Bowen Laboratory and S-BRITE. Occasionally travel to conferences and similar venues to assist Directors of Bowen Laboratory and S-BRITE in presentations and promotional activities.   

Who We Are

The 66,000 square-foot Robert L. and Terry L. Bowen Laboratory for Large-Scale Civil Engineering Research provides the space and technical capability needed to investigate the behavior of large structural models and elements subjected to loads representing extreme events, such as earthquakes, blasts, and impact, so that future structures will be designed to better withstand these extreme events. The lab's "strong floor," clear ceiling height of 54 feet, loading apparatus, and advanced instrumentation set a new standard for materials and structures testing.

Utilizing some of Purdue’s existing strengths in education and research, the S-BRITE Center engages faculty and engineers from around the country in order to explore partnership opportunities in training and research. A “Distributed Expertise Network” (DEN), which includes specific experts from inside and outside of Purdue, assists Center Partners with specific and complex problems. The S-BRITE Center fills a growing need in the transportation industry as it relates to existing and aging steel bridges.

What We Are Looking For

Education and Experience:

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, business administration, management, or related field
• A minimum of four (4) years of experience providing program/project support, in a higher education setting, or with high-level administrative/programmatic support
• Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered

Skills:

Required:

• Skilled in using discretion and independent judgement to make sound decisions balancing facts, priorities, and possible outcomes
• Ability to handle frequent interruptions, prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and maintain confidentiality
• Strong organizational and time management skills and attention to detail
• Advanced computer and related software skills to include Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Internet, web conferencing tools, etc.
• Skilled in collaborating and communicating to build relationships with individuals at all levels within and external to the university to support S-BRITE’s needs
• Skilled in interpreting policies and procedures to proactively resolve issues
• Skilled in identifying problems, generating ideas for improvement, and recommending or implementing solutions
• Skilled in using discretion regarding when to involve the Director, when to resolve issues independently, or when to engage others
• Ability to make decisions quickly and adjust as needs arise in a high-pressure environment
• Advanced written, verbal and interpersonal communication skills

Additional Information

• Purdue University will not sponsor employment authorization for this position  
• A background check will be required for employment in this position
• FLSA: Exempt (Not Eligible for Overtime)
• Retirement Eligibility:  Defined Contribution Waiting Period
• Purdue University is an EOE/AA employer. All individuals, including minorities, women, individuals with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply
• Benefit Statement: Purdue University offers a substantial Benefit Package including medical, dental, and vision insurance as well as a generous paid time off package for sick and vacation days

Career Stream

Career Stream: Professional 3

Pay Band: S065

Career Path Maker: https://www.purdue.edu/hr/careerpathmaker/