Admissions Assistant

By working at Harvard University, you join a vibrant community that advances Harvard's world-changing mission in meaningful ways, inspires innovation and collaboration, and builds skills and expertise. We are dedicated to creating a diverse and welcoming environment where everyone can thrive.

Why join the Harvard Faculty of Arts and Sciences?

The Faculty of Arts and Sciences (FAS) is the historic heart of Harvard University. It is the home of Harvard’s undergraduate program (Harvard College, founded in 1636) as well as all of Harvard’s Ph.D. programs (the Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, founded in 1872), Harvard Athletics and the Division of Continuing Education. The 40 academic departments and 30+ centers of the FAS support a community unparalleled in its academic excellence across the broadest range of liberal arts and sciences disciplines. Together, the FAS seeks to foster an environment of ambition, curiosity and shared commitment to knowledge and truth that elicits excellence from all members of our community and prepares the next generation of leaders through a transformative educational experience.

Job Summary:

The Harvard College Admission Visitor Center welcomes prospective undergraduate students and their families from all around the world, provides information about the College and admissions process through multiple channels, and frequently serves as the face of the university to the general public. The Admissions Assistant plays a critical role in ensuring a positive and informative experience for prospective students, admitted students, parents, guidance counselors, and others interested in the College. 

Job-Specific Responsibilities:

• As a first point of contact, deliver accurate information about Harvard College and admissions process and policies in person, on the phone, or through email; may respond to inquiries through other channels (e.g., chat, social media) as needed
• Triage calls, answer questions, and provide information to high school counselors, organizations, and alumni about the admissions process
• Compose, edit, proofread, and prepare email correspondence and other materials
• Assist prospective and admitted student contact with academic departments and other offices
• Participate in on-campus Visitas weekend, welcoming and checking in admitted students
• Arrange overnight hosting for admitted students unable to attend Visitas
• Handle set-up (e.g., audio-visual, space) for daily information sessions; assist with logistics for on-campus recruitment and yield events
• Maintain inventory of admissions publications
• Arrange room reservations for space in Agassiz House
• Proactively contribute to the improvement of office operations
• Gather and maintain data on visitor inquiries and engagement
• Make suggestions and contribute content for Harvard College website and marketing materials, based on Visitor Center inquiries and information requests
• Ensure compliance with admissions requirements and/or policies
• May assist in training student employees and temporary workers
• Perform additional duties as needed

Working Conditions:

• Work is typically performed in an office setting, but may be remote hybrid, as directed by FAS.
• This position is public-facing and will require the candidate to work at least three days per week at the Visitor Center in Cambridge, MA.  
• Any remote work must be performed in a state in which Harvard is registered to do business (including, but not limited to, CT, MA, MD, ME, NH, NY, RI, and VT)

Physical Requirements:

• Work will require sitting, near vision use for reading and computer use for extended periods of time, lifting (approximately 20 to 30 pounds), bending, and other physical exertion.

Basic Qualifications (required):

• Three or more years of experience. (Education beyond high school may count toward experience.)

Additional Qualifications and Skills (preferred):

• Bachelor's degree preferred
• Excellent communication (both oral and written) and interpersonal skills, especially with a wide variety of constituents from diverse backgrounds
• Ability to exercise professional judgment and tact, as well as handle complex and confidential information with discretion.
• Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and follow-through.
• Ability to work independently and as a member of a team with minimal supervision in a fast-paced and demanding environment.
• Ability to manage large volumes of work and meet shifting deadlines with flexibility and poise
• Previous experience providing a high level of customer service in a busy office preferred.
• Computer literacy and ability to learn new applications and systems quickly; experience with Microsoft Office and email applications; knowledge of Slate InBox a plus.
• Ability to work during Visitor Center hours of operations (typically, 9 am to 5 pm, weekdays) and overtime during peak periods, as well as some weekends and holidays as needed.

• Standard Hours/Schedule: 35 hours per week
• Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position
• Pre-Employment Screening: Identity, Education, Criminal and Reference checks required.

Other Information:

• In order to be considered for this position, please demonstrate basic qualifications are met. 
• Applicants MUST submit a cover letter in addition to their resume in order for their application to be reviewed.
• This position has a 3-month orientation and review period.
• All formal offers will be made by FAS HR.

Work Format Details

This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that some of the duties and responsibilities can be effectively performed at a non-Harvard location. The work schedule and location will be set by the department at its discretion and based upon operational needs. When not working at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location, employees in hybrid positions must work in a Harvard registered state in compliance with the University’s Policy on Employment Outside of Massachusetts. Additional details will be discussed during the interview process. Certain visa types and funding sources may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.

Salary Grade and Ranges

This position is salary grade level 053. Please visit  Harvard's Salary Ranges  to view the corresponding salary range and related information. 

Benefits

Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package that is designed to support a healthy work-life balance and your physical, mental and financial wellbeing. Because here, you are what matters. Our benefits include, but are not limited to: 

• Generous paid time off including parental leave 
• Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one 
• Retirement plans with university contributions 
• Wellbeing and mental health resources 
• Support for families and caregivers 
• Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement 
• Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks 

Learn more about these and additional benefits on our Benefits & Wellbeing Page. 

EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement

Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes.

Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university's non-discrimination policy. Harvard's equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.