Administrative Specialist - RecSports - UTK

This position is a key member of the RecSports team, responsible for managing departmental financial operations, overseeing purchasing and inventory, and ensuring compliance with university policies. The Administrative Specialist III provides daily oversight of office operations, supervises clerical and student staff, and serves as a primary liaison with other university departments. This role also acts as a backup for accounting and payroll functions, assists with departmental searches and compliance reporting, and supports staff and students with general inquiries related to memberships and transactions.

Financial Oversight & Compliance

• Collect, prepare, and post credit card, check, and VolCard transactions.
• Prepare quarterly sales tax reports.
• Serve as the internal auditor for RecSports, developing and implementing procedures to ensure compliance with university fiscal policies.
• Serve as the primary purchasing agent for RecSports (outdoor, facilities, aquatics, sport clubs, fitness, maintenance, and office).
• Oversee and verify RecSports equipment inventory data for university records.
• Assist the Director with reports, data collection, problem resolution, and dissemination of university policy updates.
• Initiate employment and exit paperwork for full-time staff and graduate assistants.
• Perform general office duties.

Administrative & Operational Support 

• Contact vendors to resolve issues with departmental machines (credit card readers, fax, copiers, etc.).
• Assist the Director with departmental searches, including coordination of travel, lodging, and meals.
• Compile and prepare annual compliance forms.
• Troubleshoot and resolve problems related to Fusion software.
• Supervise and train clerical and student staff.
• Serve as departmental liaison with Human Resources, Payroll, Fleet Management, UT Police, Purchasing, UT Administration, and the Treasurer’s Office.

Accounting & Payroll Backup when team members need assistance 

Required Qualifications

• Education: Associate’s Degree or Vocational or technical training
• Experience: 5 Years’ Experience in accounting or business administration
• Knowledge, Skills, Abilities: Demonstrated Experience with Financial Management; Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.  Ability to work collaboratively with university partners

Preferred Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in accounting, Business Administration, or related field (or equivalent experience).
• Experience: Experience working in a recreational sports or athletic office; Experience overseeing full-time clerical and student employees
• Knowledge, Skills, Abilities: Familiarity with recreational sports or athletic office operations.

Work Location 

• Location: 2111 Volunteer Blvd. Knoxville, TN 37996
• Onsite, Hybrid, or Remote: This position is Onsite, with some seasonal remote work opportunities

Compensation and Benefits 

• UT market range: MR06
• Anticipated hiring range: Salary is commensurate with experience
• Find more information on the UT Market Range structure here
• Find more information on UT Benefits here

Application Instructions 

To express interest, please submit an application with the noted below attachments. To be assured of full consideration, completed applications with all requested materials.

• List of 3 Professional References

About The College/Department/Division 

The Division of Student Life is comprised of an outstanding group of professionals who create student-centered opportunities that contribute to a transformative Volunteer Experience. These opportunities allow students to grow their skills and knowledge outside of the classroom. From health and wellness to service and engagement, we provide opportunities where students exemplify the Volunteer Spirit, inspiring others to learn, lead, and serve.

The departments and offices housed within Student Life provide the daily services our students need to thrive and plan strategically for the future of student life at UT. These departments and offices foster student engagement and leadership opportunities, prioritize the health and wellness of our students and staff, and work to enhance a sense of belonging. The division illustrates a collective effort that is greater