Executive Administrator

About Rice:

Boasting a 300-acre tree-lined campus in Houston, Texas, Rice University is ranked among the nation’s top 20 universities by U.S. News & World Report. Rice has a 6-to-1 undergraduate student-to-faculty ratio, and a residential college system, which supports students intellectually, emotionally and culturally through social events, intramural sports, student plays, lectures series, courses and student government. Developing close-knit, diverse college communities is a strong campus tradition, which is why Rice is highly ranked for best quality of life and best value among private universities. 

Rice is also a wonderful place to work. Rice faculty, staff and students share values that are essential to our success as a healthy community. Those values guide our decisions and behaviors and shape Rice’s culture. They come through in the way we treat each other and the welcome we extend to our visitors. These values can be recalled simply by our name — RICE — Responsibility, Integrity, Community and Excellence.

About George R. Brown School of Engineering and Computing:

The George R. Brown School of Engineering and Computing ranks among the top 20 undergraduate engineering programs (US News & World Report) and is strongly committed to nurturing the aspirations of faculty, staff and students in an inclusive environment. 

We seek greater representation of women, minorities, people with disabilities, and veterans in disciplines in which they have historically been underrepresented; to attract international students from a wider range of countries and backgrounds; to accelerate progress in building a faculty and staff who are diverse in background and thought, and we support an inclusive environment that fosters interaction and understanding within our diverse community.

Position Summary:

The Department of Computer Science is seeking a dynamic and experienced Executive Administrator to serve as the chief administrative leader, overseeing departmental operations, guiding strategic initiatives, and managing all financial activities. The Executive Administrator will provide leadership, management, and strategic direction for all administrative and operational functions within the Computer Science Department, ensuring accuracy, efficiency, and alignment with Rice University policies and procedures. This role serves as a key advisor to the department chair and faculty on administrative matters, as well as overseeing all departmental staff responsible for supporting faculty, staff, and students. This role requires a visionary manager adept at leveraging organizational, financial, and leadership skills to drive departmental efficiency and promote faculty/student success.

Ideal Candidate Statement: 

The successful candidate will be a proven administrative leader with significant experience in strategic planning, financial management, and operational oversight in complex academic settings, preferably within STEM disciplines. Exceptional communication abilities, a strong dedication to diversity and inclusion, and a demonstrated record of building collaborative, innovative environments are essential for this role.

Workplace Requirements:

• This is a full-time position requiring four days on site during the six-month probationary period. After successful completion of the probationary period, limited hybrid work flexibility may be available. In accordance with Rice Policy 440, work arrangements are subject to change.
• Must be able to work in an office environment, often at a computer workstation for much of the working day
• Must be able to move between buildings widely separated on a college campus
• Some weekends and evenings may be required during peak times

Hiring Range: Minimum $100,000, commensurate with experience and qualifications

*Exempt (salaried) positions under FLSA are not eligible for overtime.

Minimum Requirements: 

• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, management, accounting, finance, or a closely related field
  • In lieu of the education requirement, additional related experience, above and beyond what is required, on an equivalent year for year basis ma