Executive Assistant

Executive Assistant -

Please see Special Instructions for more details.
To be considered, you must apply online. In order to complete the application process, please attach a cover letter, resume, and listing of references (include their complete contact information).

PLEASE COMPLETE ALL AREAS OF THE APPLICATION. INCOMPLETE APPLICATIONS MAY NOT BE GIVEN CONSIDERATION IN THE REVIEW PROCESS.

If no applicants apply, who meet the required Knowledge, Skills, Abilities/Competencies and Training and Experience requirements, then management may consider other applicants.

All new hires into positions subject to the State Human Resources Act (SHRA) will serve a 12 month probationary period as defined by the North Carolina Office of State Human Resources (OSHR).

Posting Details

Posting Information
Posting Number
SHRA1557P

Quick Link for Internal Postings

Classification Title
Executive Assistant

Competency Level
Journey

Working Title
Executive Assistant -

Department
Office, Dean, Health & Human Sci

About WCU
Western Carolina University continues to rank high on Forbes 'Best Employers' lists each year. Including:
2024 - Ranking in the top 8.5% on Forbes 'America's Best Midsize Employers' list, WCU was ranked 34 out of the top 400 employers across all industries.
2023 - Ranked in the top 20% on Forbes 'America's Best Midsize Employers' list, WCU was ranked 97 out of the top 500 employers across all industries.
2022 - Ranked 14th in the top 100 employers in North Carolina in Forbes 'America's Best Employers by State' list.
Western Carolina University is the UNC system's westernmost campus and has been consistently ranked as one of the top 15 public regional institutions in the South.
Employees of WCU are provided a comprehensive benefits package as well as other resources, policies and programs to ensure a happy and healthy work/life balance. Benefit eligible employees have access to dental, vision and health insurance plans - eligibility begins on the first of the month following date of hire. Retirement plan contributions begin on the eligibility date following election and include employer contributions for either a defined contribution or a defined benefit plan. Optional disability plans are also available.
Eligible employees have access to tuition waivers for up to three courses per academic year; employee may enroll at any of the constituent UNC System campuses. Also offered are free group exercise classes multiple times per week, a discounted membership to the campus recreation center, free vaccine and booster shots offered on campus, pretax flexible spending accounts, 12 paid holidays and 24 hours of paid community service leave each year. Leave earning employees (staff and 12-month faculty) who work at least half of the working days of their first month of employment will begin accruing vacation and sick leave immediately. Paid parental leave after 12 months of continuous service.
WCU offers an abundance of training and development programs, certifications, workshops and conferences - many of which are offered free of charge.

Position Summary
The primary location of this position is the main Cullowhee, NC campus with a regular work week schedule of Monday through Friday from 8:00a - 5:00p.

The College of Health and Human Sciences comprises three departments and two schools with various programs, centers, and clinics. The college offers academic programs at Cullowhee and Biltmore Park ranging from undergraduate to professional doctoral degrees. The College of Health and Human Sciences is highly collaborative and cooperative.

About the Position:
This position reports to the Dean of the College of Health and Human Sciences and serves as a strategic partner and assistant to the dean. The Executive Assistant is a front-line customer service position responsible for providing administrative and operational support to the Dean's office. This individual will work closely with a wide range of individuals within and outside of the college and requires great diplomacy, discretion, resourcefulness, and flexibility.

Generalized responsibilities encompass managing schedules, coordinating meetings, handling communication, and overseeing administrative operations. This role includes providing leadership, supervising student workers, and prioritizing tasks to optimize the Dean's time.

Additionally, maintaining confidential records, preparing correspondence, and representing the office professionally are vital components. Communication and coordination duties involve drafting documents, serving as a liaison, and fostering positive relationships with stakeholders. The position also contributes to strategic planning, assists with event coordination, manages travel arrangements, and fulfills any other tasks as delegated by the Dean or designee.

Must be eligible to work in the United States without sponsorship.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities Required for this Position
Interpersonal Skills Demonstrated leadership skills in working with others and fostering a positive work environment. Skill in collaboration, emotional intelligence, and conflict management. Ability to build and maintain strong connections and networks and act as an advocate or change champion.

Knowledge - Program
Knowledge of the functional responsibilities and operations of the college related to the strategic plan, mission, and vision. Skill in fact-finding, data analysis, report building, and accurate record-keeping. Ability to gather, analyze and present facts, communicate effectively, and possess critical thinking and the ability to plan, organize work, and meet deadlines.

Problem Solving and Strategic Optimizer
Demonstrate critical thinking, a positive attitude, creativity, and resilience when navigating change, adapting to challenges, and encountering setbacks. Skilled in effective communication strategies, emotional intelligence, and building partnerships. Ability to embrace new circumstances, adapt quickly, and thrive in changing situations.

Planning and Organizing
Understand the basic operations of the office and develop plans and strategies to coordinate best business processes. Skill in time management, attention to detail, and multi-tasking. Ability to take initiative, organize and prioritize work, set realistic goals, and deliver results in a timely manner.

Communication (Written and Verbal)
Demonstrated knowledge of appropriate business etiquette, verbal and non-verbal communication skills, and situational awareness required to coordinate the work of the office. Skill in written and verbal communication techniques to represent the college and interact effectively with internal and external constituents. Ability to effectively convey and exchange information and use strong interpersonal skills to problem-solve and build consensus.

Information/Records Administration
Independently researches information affecting organizational goals and objectives and administrator's decision-making needs. Interprets and summarizes information based on program knowledge, organizational goals, and priorities.

Customer Service and Relationship Manager
Demonstrate a people-first attitude, be a team player, and serve as a resource to others concerning the college. Skilled in customer service skills (i.e., polite, patient, conscientious, trustworthy). Will possess and maintain a high level of discretion and confidentiality. Ability to build trust and respect and identify concerns with appropriate action to ensure a satisfactory resolution.

Minimum Qualifications
High school diploma or equivalency and three years of progressively responsible administrative/office management experience;

or Associate's degree in secretarial science, business administration, or a related discipline and one year of progressively responsible administrative/office management experience ; or Bachelor's degree, preferably in business administration or a related discipline; or equivalent combination of training and experience. All degrees must be received from appropriately accredited institutions.

Anticipated Hiring Range
$52,246

Position Type
Permanent Full-Time

Number of Hours per Week
40

Number of Months per Year
12

Salary Band Range
$37,306 - $86,062

Salary Grade
For administrative purposes during the implementation of Career Banding this journey level posiiton is considered a Salary Grade 64

Posting Text
Open Date
04/29/2025

Close Date
05/11/2025

Open Until Filled
No

Special Instructions to Applicants
To be considered, you must apply online. In order to complete the application process, please attach a cover letter, resume, and listing of references (include their complete contact information).

PLEASE COMPLETE ALL AREAS OF THE APPLICATION. INCOMPLETE APPLICATIONS MAY NOT BE GIVEN CONSIDERATION IN THE REVIEW PROCESS.

If no applicants apply, who meet the required Knowledge, Skills, Abilities/Competencies and Training and Experience requirements, then management may consider other applicants.

All new hires into positions subject to the State Human Resources Act (SHRA) will serve a 12 month probationary period as defined by the North Carolina Office of State Human Resources (OSHR).

Background/E-Verify
Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks.
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