Senior Research Administrative Assistant

Position: Senior Research Administrative Assistant
Location: East Orange, NJ
Work Environment: Hybrid (on-site with ad-hoc ability to work remotely)
Status: Contingent Upon Contract Award

Knowesis is currently seeking a Senior Research Administrative Assistant to support research programmatic activities at the New Jersey War Related Illness and Injury Study Center (NJ WRIISC). This position plays a crucial role in ensuring the smooth operation of the program and supporting the Director in overall management.  This position requires a high level of professionalism, ability to be discreet with confidential issues, and organizational skills to manage a wide range of responsibilities.

To be eligible for this position, candidates must possess U.S. Citizenship without the need for sponsorship, both now and in the future. Applicants without proof of U.S. Citizenship will not be considered due to the position’s security clearance requirements.

 The Job Duties and Responsibilities include but are not limited to the following:  

• Develop internal SOPs in collaboration with subject matter experts and area leaders.
• Analyze areas of inefficiency and improve workflows.
• Make administrative decisions and act on behalf of the Director based on knowledge of the organization, policies, and personnel.
• Coordinate meetings and prioritize competing demands, prepare agendas, and take summary notes of meetings; facilitate meetings and ensure effective communication flow.
• Manage correspondence for Directors; draft and edit documents, reports, and presentations; screen emails to prioritize tasks; maintain records and track expenses for Co-Directors and research program; serve as a liaison between the Director and other staff, board members, and external stakeholders; and draft correspondence on behalf of the Director.
• Improve administrative processes; suggest innovative solutions to departmental problems; develop and implement new administrative procedures; document procedures using VA’s Standard Operating Procedure format; coordinate special projects as assigned; assist in preparation of strategic plans and reports; organize departmental events and meetings; coordinate logistics for conferences and seminars; and manage guest speaker arrangements and itineraries.
• Track required tasks and reports from the local facility, VISN, and Program Office, provide draft responses, and coordinate with relevant lead personnel to ensure that requests are responded to in a timely manner.

Required Qualifications:

• Minimum of an Associate degree
• Nine years of similar experience
• Favorable background check

Knowesis is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all individuals based on merit and qualifications. We prohibit discrimination in all aspects of employment as required by Title VII of the Civil Rights Act and other applicable federal laws. Our company values all applicants and employees and fosters a work environment where everyone is treated with respect and dignity.