Department Assistant, Education

PLNU is a Christian liberal arts university in the evangelical, Wesleyan tradition, offering quality undergraduate, graduate and professional programs. We provide higher education in a vibrant Christian environment where minds are engaged and challenged, character is modeled and formed, and service is an expression of faith. PLNU is an institution that is committed to reflecting the rich diversity of God’s kingdom. We therefore encourage applications from culturally diverse candidates.

Benefits:

We are pleased to offer attractive benefits and resources. This includes benefits such as health, dental, tuition benefits for employees and dependents, competitive retirement matching, vacation and sick time, and 15 paid holidays per year. In addition, we have many opportunities to engage with our community including staff chapel and a robust wellness program.

Job Summary:

Point Loma Nazarene University's School of Education has been preparing exceptional educators for more than 100 years and remains a nationally accredited leader in teacher preparation, special education, educational leadership, counseling, and adult education. The School of Education recommends more than 600 credentials annually and serves students preparing to make a meaningful impact in schools and communities throughout California and beyond.

PLNU is seeking an organized, service-oriented, and collaborative Department Assistant to support the daily operations of the School of Education at the Mission Valley Regional Center. This role serves as a key point of contact for students, faculty, staff, and visitors while providing administrative, operational, and event support that contributes to an outstanding student experience and the effective functioning of the department.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys working in a dynamic academic environment, building relationships, solving problems, and supporting the success of students and faculty.

Salary:
Pay range $20.58 - $22.22
Actual salary offered is determined by the candidate’s experience, education, skills, and other factors, including internal equity and university funding resources.

Job Status:

Full time

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Job Description:

What We're Looking For

• Passion for supporting students and contributing to a positive educational experience

• Strong customer service skills and the ability to create a welcoming environment for students, faculty, and visitors

• Excellent organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy

• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with a diverse team

• Strong written and verbal communication skills

• Comfort working in a fast-paced environment with frequent interruptions

• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information appropriately

• Experience utilizing technology, databases, and office software to support operational efficiency

• Problem-solving mindset with the ability to proactively identify and resolve issues

• Knowledge and experience working with a diverse population is preferred

What You'll Be Doing

• Serve as the primary receptionist for the School of Education, greeting visitors, answering phones, and directing inquiries appropriately

• Provide administrative support for prospective and newly admitted students

• Support faculty and staff with scheduling, communications, and operational needs

• Maintain office operations, including supply ordering, mail distribution, equipment support, and workroom organization

• Develop and maintain annual task calendars and administrative schedules

• Provide administrative support for the Mission Valley Regional Center and School of Education programs

• Coordinate student appointments and assist with faculty scheduling needs

• Plan and support departmental events, meetings, and special programs

• Answer questions from prospective and current students and connect them with appropriate campus resources

• Coordinate classroom, meeting, and event room reservations

• Provide basic technology support for faculty and staff utilizing PC and Mac platforms

• Maintain awareness of institutional updates, admissions requirements, program changes, accreditation requirements, and important deadlines

• Support recordkeeping and administrative processes while maintaining FERPA compliance and confidentiality

• Serve as a resource for faculty, students, and staff regarding departmental processes and procedures

• Participate in professional development opportunities and training activities

• Perform additional duties and projects as assigned

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• Minimum one year of administrative experience

• Strong computer proficiency including Microsoft Office and Google Workspace applications

• Ability to type 45 words per minute

• Comfortable working with both PC and Mac environments or willingness to learn

• Strong organizational, communication, and customer service skills

• Knowledge of FERPA regulations and ability to maintain confidentiality

• Ability to work effectively with frequent interruptions while producing accurate and timely work

• Excellent English grammar, spelling, punctuation, and written communication skills

• Evidence of Christian commitment and active church involvement. In addition, staff agree to live in agreement with PLNU's Community Life Covenant.

• The job offer is contingent on the successful completion of a background check. PLNU will consider qualified applicants, including those with criminal histories, in a manner consistent with state and local "Fair Chance" laws.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree

• Experience working in higher education

• Experience supporting a diverse student population

• Proficiency with Workday

• Proficiency with Taskstream

• Experience providing administrative support in an academic environment

Physical Requirements

• Work is primarily sedentary and may require sitting for extended periods of time

• Use of computer equipment including keyboard, mouse, and monitor

• Ability to read documents, email, reports, and other correspondence on paper and computer monitor

• Ability to communicate effectively with others in person and by phone

• Ability to stand, stoop, push, pull, and lift up to 10 pounds throughout the day

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At PLNU, we believe in pursuing calling together. Deep and meaningful relationships between students, faculty, and staff is vital in nurturing our shared community and expressing God’s love. We are looking for enthusiastic candidates to join us in empowering our students to reach their greatest personal, spiritual and professional potential. 

Point Loma Nazarene University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, disability or status as a veteran in any of its policies, practices or procedures.