Senior Executive Assistant and Data Analyst (IS-0301-12)

Application Deadline: 8 October 2024

Department: Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory

Employment Type: Full Time

Location: Cambridge, MA

Compensation: $98,240 - $127,707 / year

Description

OPENING DATE: September 25, 2024
CLOSING DATE: October 8, 2024
zTYPE OF POSITION: Trust Indefinite (Non-Federal)
DIVISION: Director's Office
LOCATION: Cambridge, MA
AREA OF CONSIDERATION: This position is open to all eligible candidates.
What are Trust Fund Positions?Trust Fund positions are unique to the Smithsonian. They are paid for from a variety of sources, including the Smithsonian endowment, revenue from our business activities, donations, grants and contracts. Trust employees are not part of the civil service, nor does trust fund employment lead to Federal status. The salary ranges for trust positions are generally the same as for federal positions and in many cases trust and federal employees work side by side. Trust employees have their own benefit program, which may include Health, Dental & Vision Insurance, Life Insurance, Transit/Commuter Benefits, Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance, Annual and Sick Leave, Family Friendly Leave, 403b Retirement Plan, Discounts for Smithsonian Memberships, Museum Stores and Restaurants, Credit Union, Smithsonian Early Enrichment Center (Childcare), Flexible Spending Account (Health & Dependent Care). 
Conditions of Employment

• Pass Pre-employment Background Check and Subsequent Background Investigation, as required.
• Complete a Probationary Period if applicable. 
• Maintain a Bank Account for Direct Deposit/Electronic Transfer.
• The position is open to all candidates eligible to work in the United States.  Proof of eligibility to work in U.S. is not required to apply.
• Applicants must meet all qualification and eligibility requirements within 30 days of the closing date of this announcement. 
• Telework is allowed according to the SAO telework policy and supervisor approval; SAO policy is currently 3 days/week on-site.

OVERVIEW

INTRODUCTION
The Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory (SAO) is at the forefront, internationally, of the scientific exploration of the universe. SAO combines its resources with those of the Harvard College Observatory to form the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics (CfA). The CfA is the best-known astrophysics center in the world. Its programs range from ground-based astronomy and astrophysics research to space-based research, the engineering and development of major scientific instrumentation for space launch and use in large ground-based facilities, and research designed to improve science education. The research objectives of SAO are carried out primarily with the support of Government and Smithsonian Institution funds, with additional philanthropic support.  Government funds are in the form of Federal appropriations or the form of contracts and grants from other agencies. In contrast, Institution funds are available to SAO through grants from the Institution's Restricted Funds, Special Purpose Funds, Bureau Activities, Business Activities, and non-Federal contracts and grants. 

SUMMARY
This position serves as Senior Executive Assistant and Data Analyst to the CfA Director on a wide variety of administrative, data analysis, and other aspects related to the management of the Center which affect the effectiveness and efficiency of the Center’s activities.

MAJOR DUTIES

Administrative Support and Coordination 

• Efficiently manages the Director’s calendar management, which includes national and international travel, public events, and frequent meeting requests from internal and external constituents while remaining consistent with the CFA Director’s strategic priorities
• Oversees and contributes to the development of communications (including emails, voicemails, newsletters, presentations, speaking notes, and other materials) from members of SAO, Harvard, Smithsonian Institution, the astrophysics community, and sponsors. Interacts with high-ranking officials from the public and private sectors. Uses judgment and knowledge of the organization and programs to answer inquiries, referring callers to appropriate individuals across the Center. Keeps abreast of the major issues and communications of interest to the CFA Director.
• Responsible for providing or overseeing the preparation of various logistical support to the CfA Director, including all travel arrangements for the CfA Director, including national and international travel, accommodation and schedules. This includes c