The position supports the NEA’s strategic objective to focus the energy and resources of its over 3 million members toward the promotion of public education by providing highly skilled professional administrative assistance in support of the Office of Strategic Alliances housed in the Office of the Executive Director.

POSITION SUMMARY:  The essential functions of this position include providing administrative and specialized program support for the Office of Strategic Alliances (OSA) and its Director. This work includes, but is not limited to, supporting the team in executing strategies that strengthen NEA’s relationships within the philanthropic community; maintaining records of accounts payable; tracking NEA’s commitments and contributions; provide administrative support to both the director and team members as needed; including oversight of director’s schedule; helping maintain systems to successfully manage and cultivate organizational and individuals relationships; conduct research and make recommendations on potential partnerships and philanthropic entities as needed; develop written correspondence, talking points, and briefing materials; experience with or knowledge of processing a high volume of expense vouchers, contracts and MOU’s; manage subscriptions or direct contributions; organize team meetings and track progress toward collective goals.

In addition, the incumbent writes, develops, and edits a variety of explanatory and informational correspondence documents and materials; provides administrative support for and organizes meetings (online and in-person); designs and prepares a variety of reports in response to request from management, NEA staff and/or state affiliates; conducts online searches; and participates in collaborative work efforts that enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of OSA operations. To carry out responsibilities, the employee uses a personal computer and associated software. Some travel may be required.

Required Skills

SELECTION CRITERIA: TIER 1 (ESSENTIAL): Demonstrated knowledge of Association programs, priorities, and initiatives. Demonstrated advanced technology skills for word processing, spreadsheet, database and presentation development and maintenance, preferably using Microsoft Office Suite. Proven skills in oral and written communication, including proofreading and editing. Proven ability to research, analyze and report information. Skill in the layout and design of meeting/presentation and other informational materials. Demonstrated ability to handle confidential and sensitive information with discretion. Demonstrated skills in note taking and transcribing minutes. Demonstrated ability to prioritize and organize work and make informed decisions and recommendations. Effective analytical, interpersonal skills and ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment. Demonstrated flexibility in handling multiple/complex projects simultaneously under stringent timeframes and changing priorities/conditions. Demonstrated use of sound judgment for decision-making and ability to follow through on tasks with minimal supervision. Successful references. TIER 2 (SIGNIFICANT): Proven experience in coordinating and supporting meetings/conferences and travel logistics. Proven ability to do critical thinking and problem-solving. TIER 3 (DESIRABLE): General knowledge of NEA governance and its various committees. Familiarity with NEA’s financial management system, specifically PeopleSoft. Understanding of the NEA Strategic Plan and the Association’s budget process.

Required Experience

MINIMUM EDUCATION REQUIREMENT: Associate of Arts degree, preferably in Business, Project Management, Writing or related discipline OR AN EQUIVALENT COMBINATION OF EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE FROM WHICH COMPARABLE KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS MAY BE ACQUIRED. _M_INIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Three years of progressively responsible program or professional administrative experience that must include conference a meeting planning, participating in program development, project planning and coordination, determining implementation strategies, and providing high-level technical program assistance for political advocacy programs. Three years of professional experience recording minutes, writing and editing for a variety of products, brochures and informational papers. A minimum of two years’ experience in financial analyses reporting, invoice processing, and conference and meeting planning. Specialized advanced skill and experience using high-end features of online meeting software, word processing, spreadsheet, databases and presentation software (Peoplesoft, Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Adobe Acrobat). OTHER REQUIREMENTS: Clerical tests may be administered. Work samples (e.g. spreadsheets, database, or presentation materials) may be required at interview. Availability to work extended hours on evenings and weekends. Occasional travel required.

SELECTION CRITERIA: TIER 1 (ESSENTIAL): Demonstrated knowledge of Association programs, priorities, and initiatives. Demonstrated advanced technology skills for word processing, spreadsheet, database and presentation development and maintenance, preferably using Microsoft Office Suite. Proven skills in oral and written communication, including proofreading and editing. Proven ability to research, analyze and report information. Skill in the layout and design of meeting/presentation and other informational materials. Demonstrated ability to handle confidential and sensitive information with discretion. Demonstrated skills in note taking and transcribing minutes. Demonstrated ability to prioritize and organize work and make informed decisions and recommendations. Effective analytical, interpersonal skills and ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment. Demonstrated flexibility in handling multiple/complex projects simultaneously under stringent timeframes and changing priorities/conditions. Demonstrated use of sound judgment for decision-making and ability to follow through on tasks with minimal supervision. Successful references. TIER 2 (SIGNIFICANT): Proven experience in coordinating and supporting meetings/conferences and travel logistics. Proven ability to do critical thinking and problem-solving. TIER 3 (DESIRABLE): General knowledge of NEA governance and its various committees. Familiarity with NEA’s financial management system, specifically PeopleSoft. Understanding of the NEA Strategic Plan and the Association’s budget process.