Business Assistant

As a Business Assistant at the University of Chicago, your key responsibilities will include processing GEMs reconciliations and reimbursements for department faculty, maintaining supply inventories, organizing travel itineraries, and coordinating meeting schedules. You'll play a vital role in ensuring efficient office operations while assisting with various administrative duties, such as preparing communications and updating departmental directories.

To qualify for the Business Assistant role at the University of Chicago, candidates typically need 2-5 years of work experience in a similar administrative role. A background in higher education is preferred, along with knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite, Google Drive Suite, and familiarity with university systems like GEMS and Oracle. A vocational training or equivalent experience is generally acceptable.

The Business Assistant significantly contributes to the Department of Statistics by enhancing office efficiencies, supporting faculty with administrative tasks, and facilitating communication within the department. This vital support helps create an organized environment where faculty can focus on their teaching and research while ensuring that all operations run smoothly.

For the Business Assistant role at the University of Chicago, intermediate to advanced computer skills are essential. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, Google Drive Suite, and familiarity with university systems like Oracle and Zoom will be necessary for carrying out tasks efficiently. These skills ensure that you can manage various administrative duties effectively.

The pay range for a Business Assistant at the University of Chicago is typically between $25.00 and $30.00 per hour. This range reflects the university's good faith estimate and may be influenced by your experience and qualifications within the administrative field.

In your response, emphasize specific administrative tasks you've handled in previous roles, such as managing schedules, processing reimbursements, or coordinating travel. Highlight your ability to multitask and work autonomously while maintaining a friendly demeanor in a busy environment.

Discuss your proficiency with technical tools such as Microsoft Office Suite and Google Drive Suite. Mention any experience with specific university systems you’ve previously used, like GEMS or Oracle, to demonstrate your readiness for the position.

Outline your approach to prioritization, such as using organizational tools, creating to-do lists, or setting deadlines based on urgency. Provide examples from past experiences that showcase how you managed competing priorities effectively.

Emphasize your attention to detail and the methods you utilize to ensure accuracy, such as cross-referencing information, double-checking documents, or using checklists. Share an anecdote about a time when attention to detail prevented a potential issue.

Refer to your conflict resolution skills and how you would approach the situation calmly. Discuss procedures for identifying the issue, communicating effectively with those involved, and finding a solution that satisfies all parties without disrupting the workflow.

Talk about your communication skills and your methods for maintaining open lines of communication, such as regular updates, creating clear channels for questions, or emphasizing collaboration. Explain the importance of fostering a cooperative environment.

Provide examples of your past experiences coordinating travel itineraries, such as researching travel options, securing accommodations, and preparing travel schedules. Highlight your organizational skills and attention to detail in managing travel logistics.

Explain your systematic approach to document management, including regular reviews for accuracy, ensuring all information is current, and strategies you use to organize and store essential documents securely. Mention the importance of accessibility in your methods.

Express your passion for supporting educational missions and working with faculty and students. Share how you value the opportunity to contribute to an academic environment and assist in furthering institutional goals.

Discuss your adaptability and willingness to learn. Explain your methods for approaching new systems, such as taking initiative to seek training, asking for help when needed, and practicing until you feel confident in your abilities to navigate new tools.