Remote Part‑Time College Assistant – Administrative & Research Support for CUNY Central Office (Flexible Hours, Competitive Pay)

About CUNY Central Office – A Hub of Innovation and Community Impact

Founded over a century ago, the City University of New York (CUNY) system stands as one of the nation’s most diverse and dynamic public university networks. The Central Office, situated at the heart of CUNY’s sprawling ecosystem, serves as the administrative nucleus that coordinates academic programs, research initiatives, student services, and community outreach across more than 25 colleges. Working at CUNY means joining a mission‑driven organization that champions affordable education, social mobility, and the pursuit of knowledge for every New Yorker. As a Remote College Assistant, you will become an integral part of this mission, supporting the seamless operation of the Central Office while enjoying the flexibility of a home‑based role.

Why This Role Is a Unique Opportunity

This isn’t just another clerical gig. The College Assistant position offers a blend of administrative, research, and customer‑service responsibilities that provide a solid foundation for a career in higher‑education administration or public‑sector operations. Whether you are a current student looking to gain real‑world experience, a recent graduate eager to launch a professional trajectory, or a seasoned professional seeking part‑time flexibility, this role is designed to accommodate a broad spectrum of talent while delivering meaningful impact on the daily functioning of CUNY’s central operations.

Position Overview – What You’ll Do Every Day

Under the guidance of senior administrators, you will perform a variety of tasks that keep the Central Office running smoothly. Your responsibilities will encompass routine office support, data management, communication drafting, and occasional event assistance. The role is part‑time, up to 20 hours per week, with the possibility of evening shifts to align with the office’s operational needs. While you will report to a designated supervisor, you will also collaborate with peers across multiple departments, gaining exposure to a wide array of university functions.

Key Responsibilities

• Administrative Support: Answer and direct telephone calls, serve as the first point of contact for visitors (virtual or in‑person), manage schedule coordination, and maintain organized filing systems both digitally and physically.
• Document Management: Draft, proofread, and format letters, memoranda, and internal communications; scan, archive, and distribute documents; ensure version control for all department records.
• Data Collection & Entry: Assist with statistical and research projects by gathering raw data, coding information for electronic entry, performing high‑accuracy data entry, and generating basic computer reports using Excel and other Microsoft Office applications.
• Inventory & Record Keeping: Update and monitor inventory control logs, maintain departmental rosters, directories, and scheduling spreadsheets, and reconcile any discrepancies on a regular basis.
• Customer Service & Outreach: Respond promptly to routine inquiries from students, faculty, staff, and external partners; provide clear, courteous information and forward complex issues to appropriate personnel.
• Technology Utilization: Operate standard office equipment (copiers, scanners, fax machines) and use computer software—including Microsoft Office Suite, database tools, and any specialized CUNY platforms—to complete assigned tasks efficiently.
• Event & Project Assistance: Contribute to the planning and execution of departmental events, workshops, and special projects by organizing logistics, preparing materials, and supporting on‑site coordination when required.
• Library Support (as needed): Perform clerical library duties such as sorting and shelving books, entering bibliographic data into library systems, and assisting with binding of periodicals.
• Cashier Duties: Safely handle cash transactions for department‑related purchases, maintain accurate receipts, and reconcile daily totals.

Essential Qualifications – What You Must Bring

• Minimum Educational Requirement: Currently enrolled in or graduated from an accredited college or university program; no specific major is required, though studies in business administration, education, or information technology are advantageous.
• Technical Proficiency: Demonstrated functional experience with Microsoft Excel, Word, Outlook, and PowerPoint; ability to navigate online portals and basic database structures.
• Organizational Acumen: Strong ability to prioritize multiple tasks, maintain meticulous records, and meet deadlines in a fast‑paced environment.
• Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication abilities; capacity to draft clear, concise correspondence and convey information effectively to diverse audiences.
• Customer‑Oriented Mindset: Proven track record of providing courteous, helpful service to internal and external stakeholders, with a collaborative approach to problem‑solving.
• Reliability & Integrity: Consistent attendance, punctuality, and adherence to confidentiality standards when handling sensitive university data.

Preferred Qualifications – What Sets You Apart

• Previous experience in a higher‑education or government office setting.
• Familiarity with CUNY’s internal systems (e.g., CUNYfirst, Banner) or other enterprise resource planning platforms.
• Experience with statistical software or data‑analysis tools such as SPSS, SAS, or R.
• Fluency in a second language (Spanish, Chinese, or other) to support CUNY’s multilingual community.
• Certification in Office Administration, Project Management, or related fields.

Core Skills & Competencies for Success

• Attention to Detail: Accurate data entry, precise document formatting, and vigilant record‑keeping.
• Time Management: Ability to juggle simultaneous assignments while maintaining quality standards.
• Problem‑Solving: Proactive identification of obstacles and resourceful resolution strategies.
• Adaptability: Comfortable working in a hybrid environment that may shift between fully remote and occasional on‑site presence.
• Team Collaboration: Constructively engage with supervisors, peers, and cross‑functional teams to achieve shared objectives.
• Technological Literacy: Quick learning of new software tools and willingness to adopt emerging digital workflows.

Career Growth & Professional Development

While the College Assistant role is part‑time, CUNY recognizes the potential for career advancement. Employees who demonstrate excellence may become eligible for full‑time positions, mentorship programs, or specialized training in areas such as project management, data analytics, and higher‑education policy. The university also provides access to tuition discounts, professional workshops, and networking events that can accelerate your trajectory within the public‑sector workforce.

Compensation, Benefits & Perks

• Hourly Wage: $15.61 – $25.51, commensurate with education, experience, and the specific department budget.
• Flexible Scheduling: Up to 20 hours per week with potential evening assignments to match business needs.
• Hybrid Work Model: Primarily remote with occasional on‑site requirements, allowing you to balance personal responsibilities and professional duties.
• Health & Wellness: Eligible part‑time staff can access health insurance benefits after meeting weekly or semester hour thresholds.
• Pension & Savings: Participation in CUNY’s pension plan and tax‑deferred savings options.
• Professional Resources: Access to university libraries, online learning platforms, and employee assistance programs.
• Employee Discounts: Reduced tuition rates, campus facility usage, and partner discounts across New York City.

Work Environment & Culture

CUNY prides itself on fostering an inclusive, equitable, and collaborative workplace. As a Remote College Assistant, you will join a diverse team that values:

• Inclusive Excellence: A commitment to serving students and staff from a wide range of cultural, socioeconomic, and ability backgrounds.
• Community Engagement: Opportunities to contribute to projects that impact local neighborhoods, citywide initiatives, and global research collaborations.
• Continuous Learning: A culture that encourages curiosity, skill‑building, and professional growth through workshops, webinars, and mentorship.
• Work‑Life Harmony: Policies that respect personal time, remote work preferences, and flexible scheduling.

How to Apply – Your Path to Joining CUNY

Ready to bring your organizational talent, data‑driven mindset, and passion for higher education to the CUNY Central Office? Follow these steps for a successful application:

1. Prepare a tailored cover letter that highlights how your experience aligns with the key responsibilities and qualifications listed above.
2. Update your resume to reflect relevant administrative, research, and customer‑service experience.
3. Visit the CUNY job portal at CUNY First – College Assistant Position and submit your application materials online.
4. Current CUNY employees should log in via the Employee Self Service portal, navigate to “Careers,” and locate the posting by its Job ID: 28533.
5. Ensure all required documents are uploaded and double‑check for completeness before hitting “Submit.”

Closing Statement – Take the Next Step

At CUNY, your work directly contributes to the educational success of thousands of students and the vitality of New York City’s academic community. If you thrive in a fast‑moving environment, enjoy interacting with diverse stakeholders, and are eager to develop a career in higher‑education administration, this Remote College Assistant role is the perfect launchpad. Apply today, and become part of a legacy of excellence, innovation, and social impact.

Submit Your Application

Seize this opportunity to make a significant impact. Apply now and take the first step towards a rewarding new role.

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