Working Title: Administrative Assistant, AVP Research & Scholarship

State Role Title: Administrative and Office Specialist III

Position Type: Full-time Staff (Classified)

Position Status: Full-Time

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt: Eligible for Overtime

College/Division: Vice President - REDI

Department: 539416 - Research Development IDC

Pay Band: 3

Pay Rate: Pay Range

Specify Range or Amount: $42,000 - $46,000 

Is this a JMU only position? No

Is this a grant-funded position? Yes. This is a grant-funded position and is contingent upon continued funding.

Is this a Conflict of Interest designated position? No

Beginning Review Date: 09/02/2026

About JMU:

At James Madison University (JMU), we’re more than just a publicly funded institution — we’re a vibrant, welcoming community located on a stunning campus where innovation, collaboration, and personal growth thrive. Our mission is to prepare students for a bright future, and we believe that starts with supporting the people who make it all possible: our employees.

Why Work at JMU?
We offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your professional journey and personal wellbeing:
• Generous Leave: Enjoy paid vacation, sick leave, parental leave, community service leave, and 19 paid holidays annually.
• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Access high-quality health insurance options that fit your needs.
• Retirement Options: Plan for your future with retirement benefits through the Virginia Retirement System.
• Employee Well-Being: Our Balanced Dukes program promotes wellness and work-life integration through resources, events, and support.
• Tuition Waiver Program: Advance your education with our tuition waiver program for undergraduate and graduate courses taken at JMU.

At JMU, we believe in Being the Change — and that starts with creating an environment where you can grow, contribute meaningfully, and feel supported every step of the way.

Discover what makes JMU a great place to work: bit.ly/JMUEmployment

General Information:

JMU research contributes to our understanding of the world, drives innovation, develops solutions to global challenges, promotes collaborations, shapes our educational approaches and provides student learning opportunities in and beyond the classroom. The Division of Research, Economic Development & Innovation (REDI) is JMU’s central research division and supports faculty-scholars, students and staff engaged in a rich diversity of creative and intellectual endeavors across and between disciplines. REDI is accepting applications for an Administrative Assistant to join our team. The Administrative Assistant serves the Associate Vice President for Research & Scholarship by providing executive-level administrative support, coordinating office operations, coordinating communications and stakeholder engagement, supporting data gathering and reporting, and coordinating event and other project support. The Administrative Assistant will also support collaboration and communication across university leadership, faculty, research centers, and external partners for strategic initiatives related to research development and institutional engagement.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Executive Administrative Support:
•Manage complex calendars, scheduling, and coordination of meetings, appointments, and events.
•Prepare correspondence, agendas, presentations, reports, and other official documents.
•Coordinate logistics for meetings, workshops, research events, advisory groups, and strategic initiatives.
•Maintain confidential files, records, and sensitive information with discretion and professionalism.

Office Operations and Coordination
•Coordinate travel arrangements, reimbursements, and procurement activities in accordance with university policies.
•Assist with preparation and organization of materials related to research initiatives, funding opportunities, and institutional reporting.
•Track deadlines, action items, and follow-up activities related to strategic projects and initiatives.
•Maintain organized electronic and physical filing systems.

Communication and Stakeholder Engagement
•Monitor and prioritize incoming communications and respond appropriately on behalf of the AVP when necessary.
•Assist with drafting and distributing communications, announcements, and informational materials.
• Provide excellent customer service and professional support to internal and external constituents.

Data Management and Reporting Support
•Assist with data collection, organization, and preparation of reports related to research activities and institutional initiatives, including research-related metrics and surveys.
•Maintain accurate records, spreadsheets, and databases as needed.

Qualifications:

Required Qualifications:
•Demonstrated experience providing administrative or executive support in a professional office environment.
•Strong organizational, time management, and multitasking skills.
•Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
•Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and standard office technologies.
•Ability to handle confidential information with discretion and professionalism.
•Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders.
•Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and manage multiple deadlines.

Additional Considerations:
•Experience in higher education, research, and/or academic environments.
•Experience supporting executive-level leadership.
•Familiarity with university administrative systems and travel or purchasing processes.
•Experience coordinating events, meetings, or institutional initiatives.

Additional Posting Information:

Conditions of Employment:  

Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a criminal background check.

E-Verify Notice: After accepting employment, new hires are required to complete an I-9 form and present documentation of their identity and eligibility to work in the United States. James Madison University uses the E-Verify system to confirm identity and work authorization.

EEO Statement:

James Madison University is committed to creating and supporting a diverse and inclusive work and educational community that is free of all forms of discrimination. This institution does not tolerate discrimination or harassment on the basis of age, color, disability, gender identity or expression, genetic information, national origin, parental status, political affiliation, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation or veteran status.

We promote access, inclusion and diversity for all students, faculty, staff, constituents and programs, believing that these qualities are foundational components of an outstanding education in keeping with our mission. The university is interested in candidates whose experience and qualifications support an ongoing commitment to this core quality.

Anyone having questions concerning discrimination should contact the Office for Equal Opportunity: (540) 568-6991.

Reasonable Accommodation:

If you are an individual with a disability and need assistance searching or applying for jobs please contact us at (540) 568-3597 or jobs@jmu.edu. You may also visit the JMU Human Resource Office, located at 752 Ott Street, Harrisonburg, VA 22807 and we will be happy to assist you.