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Staff Specialist

If you are an Internal City Employee, Retiree or Dependent/Survivor of a City Employee please apply internally via Career Icon in your Workday account.

Make a difference in the community you live in! As a Community Builder—an employee with the City of Gainesville— you will have a direct hand in building and improving your community and making a visible impact on the lives of your neighbors. Working for local government is more than a job, it’s a chance to contribute to community success and to help enhance the Gainesville way of life.

Department:

9425 GRU - Energy And Business Services

Salary Range Minimum:

$19.13

Salary Range Maximum:

$28.14

Closing Date:

04/14/2025

Job Details:

This is intermediate level, moderate to complex administrative and staff work supporting middle to upper middle level managers who oversee diverse activities in their divisions.  Some judgment and discretion are required to perform duties that are mostly cyclical and recurring in nature and are covered by existing procedures or precedents from which the incumbent normally selects the correct procedure and applies it. Matters of policy interpretation or of significance are normally referred to the supervisor for decision making. Positions allocated to this classification typically report to a middle or upper middle level manager of a diverse functional area such as a division and work under general supervision. Work in this class is distinguished from other classifications by its application of recurring but varied, moderately complex and innovative administrative duties in support of multiple functions.


**Please see testing requirements down below**

Job Description:

SUMMARY

This is intermediate level, moderate to complex administrative and staff work supporting middle to upper middle level managers who oversee diverse activities in their divisions.  Some judgment and discretion are required to perform duties that are mostly cyclical and recurring in nature and are covered by existing procedures or precedents from which the incumbent normally selects the correct procedure and applies it.  Matters of policy interpretation or of significance are normally referred to the supervisor for decision making.

Positions allocated to this classification typically report to a middle or upper middle level manager of a diverse functional area such as a division and work under general supervision.  Work in this class is distinguished from other classifications by its application of recurring but varied, moderately complex and innovative administrative duties in support of multiple functions.

EXAMPLES OF WORK**

** This section of the job description is not intended to be a comprehensive list of duties and responsibilities of the position.  The omission of a specific job function does not absolve an employee from being required to perform additional tasks incidental to or inherent in the job.  Performance of lower level duties may be required.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Depending on area of assignment:

Assists supervisor with administration of labor agreements.

Gathers information, reviews, and compiles complex files on sensitive/confidential issues.

Facilitates completion of projects and events assigned to subordinate areas.

Assists in the planning, design, development and promotion of special events, goals, objectives, plans, and programs of supervisor’s assigned area.

Drafts moderately-complex to complex documentation on sensitive/confidential issues.

Serves as staff liaison to City Commission, Charter Officers, department heads, special committees, boards, standing commission committees or other entities. Initiates agenda items, prepares supporting materials and documentation, collects, prepares, and maintains official minutes.

Prepares, processes, reviews, and monitors grant documentation.

Oversees division travel, accounting, payables, contract billing, timekeeping functions and project budgets.

Assists supervisor in researching and responding to inquiries and complaints. Independently resolves routine to moderately-complex complaints.

Assigns work to other subordinates of the assigned supervisor; coordinates work flow, and facilitates work completion.  Provides coaching/mentoring to subordinate staff.

Assists in development, preparation, and monitoring of annual and project budgets and reports.

Performs limited analyses and prepares and summarizes moderately complex statistical data.

Takes real time or machine dictation.

Writes, edits, produces, and distributes informational, publicity, and promotional materials.

Monitors administrative and operational directives from upper management to ensure compliance for area.

Attends work on a continuous and regular basis.

NON-ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Performs other related duties as assigned.

May perform tasks normally assigned to Staff Assistants as workflow and demands require.

QUALIFICATIONS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential job function satisfactorily.  Below are the required education, experience, knowledge, skills and abilities to perform the essential functions.

      EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

An Associate degree from an accredited college with major coursework in secretarial science, administrative assistance or related field or equivalent vocational/technical training and two (2) years of responsible administrative and staff support experience; or graduation from an accredited high school or possession of an acceptable equivalency diploma and three (3) years of responsible administrative  and staff support experience.

A Certified Administrative Professional (CAP) certificate or Certified Professional Secretary (CPS) certificate is preferred and may substitute for the Associate degree or equivalent vocational/technical training.

Must type at a minimum speed of 35 correct words per minute or at a higher speed, as set by the department.

CERTIFICATIONS OR LICENSES

LICENSES

If courier duties required, a valid Florida Driver license is required.

CERTIFICATIONS

A Certified Administrative Professional (CAP) certificate or Certified Professional Secretary (CPS) certificate preferred.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

Thorough knowledge of office terminology, practices, and procedures, equipment and business English, spelling, and arithmetic.

Demonstrable proficiency in personal computers and relevant software.

Thorough knowledge of organizational structure and organizational policies, procedures and practices.

Ability to function independently through the application of knowledge and skills, good judgment, organization, planning, and problem solving.

Ability to analyze moderately-complex information and prepare moderately-complex reports.

Ability to maintain confidentiality and respond appropriately to sensitive/confidential issues.

Ability to understand and follow complex oral and written instructions.

Ability to resolve customer complaints and answer inquiries.

Ability to work effectively with co-workers and internal and external customers.

Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.

Ability to organize and coordinate multiple work and office staff assignments in a multi-functional work environment.

PHYSICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL REQUIREMENTS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must possess certain physical abilities and be able to withstand work related environmental conditions

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit for prolonged periods of time.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

May require occasionally working outside regular business hours, including nights, weekends and holidays.

To be considered for this position you must take and pass the City of Gainesville:

-Typing (Passing score is 34WPM; Average Standard Net WPM is the score we go off of)
-Word
-Excel

**IF YOU HAPPEN TO FAIL YOUR TESTING, YOU MAY RETAKE THE TEST AS LONG AS IT IS BEFORE THE DEADLINE**

To schedule testing please contact CareerSource North Central Florida by emailing Assessment@careersourcencfl.com your request. They are the test administrator and will be able to assist you with your assessments.

*PLEASE LISTEN TO THE ENTIRE MESSAGE FOR INSTRUCTIONS*
 

This testing is done online.

Testing is due by EOD 4/14/25

These are mandatory assessments and must be completed for further considered for this position.

***Test scores are good for 1 year*** If you have completed testing in the past year, please ensure your scores are attached to your application before submission!!

Note: 

May Require Assessment(s).

May fill multiple positions.

May establish an eligibility list.

Come join our team! The City of Gainesville offers a competitive benefits package and opportunities to grow both professionally and personally.

All ‘regular’ employees are eligible for traditional benefits such as health insurance, life insurance, paid leave, 11 paid a holidays a year, a pension plan and a deferred compensation plan, but we also oer great things like on-site tness centers, tuition reimbursement, on-site medical sta and a wellness program to keep you healthy and happy. Please note; benefits are not available for temporary employees.

Equal Opportunity

The City of Gainesville is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer and does not discriminate in hiring. Minorities, women and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply. Individuals with a disability, who require special accommodations during the selection process, should notify the Human Resources Department at 352-334-5077 or TDD/TTY at 352-334-2292.

Veterans' Preference

Veterans are encouraged to apply. Veterans’ Preference ensures that veterans and eligible persons are given consideration at each step of the selection process. However, preference does not guarantee that a veteran or other eligible person will be the candidate selected to fill the position. Section 295.07, Florida Statutes (F.S.) specifies who is eligible for Veterans’ Preference. State of Florida residency is not required for Veterans’ Preference.

If you are unable to apply online due to a disability, contact recruiting at HR@cityofgainesville.org or by calling 352-334-5077.

Average salary estimate

$23635 / YEARLY (est.)
min
max
$19130K
$28140K

If an employer mentions a salary or salary range on their job, we display it as an "Employer Estimate". If a job has no salary data, Rise displays an estimate if available.

What You Should Know About Staff Specialist, City of Gainesville, FL

Are you a detail-oriented organizer who thrives in a vibrant community environment? The City of Gainesville is looking for a motivated Staff Specialist to join our Energy and Business Services team. This fantastic opportunity is more than just a job; it's your chance to truly make a difference in the community you love. In this role, you will support middle to upper management in various administrative tasks, ensuring smooth operations while building and improving the lives of Gainesville's residents. You'll get to draft important documentation, oversee budgets and grants, and even plan exciting community events. Your skill in managing multiple tasks with discretion and professionalism will be essential as you become a go-to liaison for city commissions and community entities. If you have an Associate degree or equivalent experience, along with a passion for community service, we’d love to hear from you. Plus, you’ll enjoy a rewarding benefits package including health insurance, paid leave, and unique wellness opportunities. This is your chance to grow both personally and professionally while fostering community success. So, if you’re ready to embrace a dynamic working environment and support the mission of making Gainesville a better place for everyone, apply now and help us build a brighter future together!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Staff Specialist Role at City of Gainesville, FL
What are the main responsibilities of a Staff Specialist at the City of Gainesville?

As a Staff Specialist at the City of Gainesville, you'll play a crucial role in supporting middle to upper management. Your main responsibilities will include drafting documentation, managing budget processes, overseeing travel arrangements, and facilitating community events, all while ensuring compliance with policies and procedures.

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What qualifications do I need to apply for the Staff Specialist position at the City of Gainesville?

To qualify for the Staff Specialist position with the City of Gainesville, you should have an Associate degree in secretarial science or a related field, or equivalent experience. Additionally, a Certified Administrative Professional (CAP) or Certified Professional Secretary (CPS) certificate is preferred. A background in administrative support with strong communication skills is also essential.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What is the work environment like for a Staff Specialist at the City of Gainesville?

The work environment for a Staff Specialist at the City of Gainesville is dynamic and community-oriented. You'll be working in a collaborative atmosphere, engaging with various departments and residents, all while contributing to community success. Days can be engaging, often working both independently and with teams to achieve organizational goals.

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What are the benefits offered to Staff Specialists at the City of Gainesville?

Staff Specialists at the City of Gainesville enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, paid leave, wellness programs, life insurance, and a pension plan. Additionally, employees have access to on-site fitness centers and tuition reimbursement opportunities, ensuring both health and career growth.

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How does the City of Gainesville support the professional development of Staff Specialists?

The City of Gainesville is committed to the professional development of its Staff Specialists by offering various training initiatives, mentorship programs, and opportunities to participate in community projects. Employees are encouraged to grow within the organization, helping them enhance their skills and advance their careers.

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Common Interview Questions for Staff Specialist
Can you describe a time when you managed multiple tasks as a Staff Specialist?

When faced with multiple tasks, prioritize your workload by determining urgency and impact. Use your organizational skills to create a system for tracking progress and deadlines, ensuring all tasks are completed efficiently while maintaining attention to detail.

Join Rise to see the full answer
How do you handle confidential and sensitive information in your role?

Handling confidential information requires a strong commitment to confidentiality and professionalism. Always adhere to company policies, discuss sensitive information only with authorized personnel, and implement secure filing and communication practices to protect data integrity.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What strategies do you use when drafting complex documentation for the City Commission?

When drafting complex documentation, start by thoroughly understanding the requirements and context. Organize your information logically, and use clear language. Reviewing previous documents can also be helpful to ensure compliance with established standards.

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How do you prioritize your tasks when supporting upper management?

Effective prioritization involves assessing the urgency and importance of tasks. Collaborating with upper management to understand their priorities helps align your work. Consider using organizational tools, like to-do lists or project management software, to maintain focus.

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Describe your experience with managing budgets and grant documentation.

In managing budgets, a keen eye for detail is critical. Regularly monitor expenditures versus budgets, forecast future spending, and ensure compliance with grant conditions. Keeping thorough documentation facilitates transparency and aids in successful audits.

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How do you ensure compliance with policies and procedures in your administrative role?

Ensuring compliance requires a solid understanding of policies. Stay updated on changes and utilize checklists to confirm adherence in daily tasks. Additionally, periodic reviews of processes can help identify areas needing improvement or clarification.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What is your approach to facilitating successful community events?

To facilitate successful community events, start with thorough planning, including logistics and communication. Engage local stakeholders early, assign roles clearly among team members, and prepare for contingencies to address any last-minute challenges.

Join Rise to see the full answer
Can you explain how you manage customer complaints in an administrative capacity?

Effective complaint management involves active listening, empathy, and a clear process for resolution. Acknowledge the concern swiftly, gather all necessary information, and communicate transparently throughout the resolution process to ensure customer satisfaction.

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What role does collaboration play in your work as a Staff Specialist?

Collaboration is vital in a Staff Specialist role; it fosters teamwork and allows for pooling of diverse skills and perspectives. Regular communication and team meetings ensure that everyone is aligned, allowing for more efficient problem-solving and project execution.

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How do you stay organized while juggling various responsibilities?

Staying organized requires creating structured systems, such as calendars, task lists, and prioritization matrices. Regularly reviewing your tasks, setting deadlines, and removing distractions can also help keep you focused on your objectives.

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DATE POSTED
March 31, 2025

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