Assistant to the Director

Job Description

Department of Microbiology has an outstanding opportunity for a Part Time (30 hours a week) Assistant to the Director to join their team.

Position Overview

The Assistant to the Director serves as the principal administrative partner to the Director, providing professional-level coordination and management of financial, HR, and operational functions within the Department of Microbiology. Under the Director’s guidance and with delegated authority, this position integrates complex financial analysis with HR and administrative processes to support efficient and compliant departmental operations.

This role exercises independent judgment in managing workflows, identifying issues, and implementing solutions, and represents the Director in coordinating administrative functions across multiple systems and stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Management & Analysis (40%)

• Perform complex monthly financial analysis, including budget reconciliation, variance review, and trend identification using Workday Finance and Excel

• Maintain and track detailed financial records across multiple funding sources

• Support development and monitoring of departmental budgets and projections

• Identify discrepancies and recommend corrective actions to ensure financial accuracy and compliance

• Develop and maintain reports and tools to improve financial tracking and transparency

HR Operations & Coordination (30%)

• Coordinate HR-related processes including appointments, payroll-related actions, and personnel transactions

• Navigate and manage workflows across UW HR, Integrated Resource (IR), and other internal systems

• Serve as liaison with HR partners to resolve issues and ensure compliance with UW policies and procedures

• Track HR actions and deadlines to ensure timely and accurate completion

• Support implementation and coordination of HR processes under the Director’s guidance

Administrative & Systems Coordination (20%)

• Oversee and coordinate access to Microbiology electronic systems for internal and external personnel under delegated authority

• Maintain and monitor system access records to ensure compliance and security

• Coordinate administrative processes across finance, HR, and departmental systms

• Represent the Director in facilitating communication and coordination across stakeholders 

Other Duties (10%)

• Provide support for special projects and departmental priorities as assigned

• Identify opportunities to improve administrative processes and workflows

• Perform other duties as needed in support of departmental operations

Pay Rate Information

The salary information provided below is for a full-time position and will be prorated for part-time.

Required Qualifications 

To be considered for this opportunity your application must demonstrate you meet both the minimum qualifications and additional qualifications listed below.

Equivalent education and/or experience may substitute for minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license,certification, and/or registration.
The Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in business, administration, finance or related field and 1-2 years of experience or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Applicants who do not meet these qualifications WILL NOT be forwarded to the Hiring Department.

Additional Requirements

• Demonstrated experience in financial data analysis, reconciliation, and reporting
• High level of proficiency in Microsoft Excel (e.g., data analysis, formulas, reporting)
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy Ability to manage multiple priorities, track progress independently, and meet deadlines
• Excellent interpersonal and written communication skills with a high level of professionalism and tact
• Ability to work independently in a remote environment while maintaining strong coordination with leadership and team members

Desired Qualifications 

• Experience using Workday (Finance and/or HR modules) 
• Experience with HR and/or payroll processes 
• Experience working in higher education or a complex administrative environment 

Work Environment 

• This position is fully remote and expected to perform work using UW enterprise systems and virtual collaboration tools 
• The role supports a fully remote Director and operates within a distributed work environment 

• Regular communication and coordination with internal stakeholders across UW systems is required 

Compensation, Benefits and Position Details

Pay Range Minimum:

Pay Range Maximum:

Other Compensation:

Benefits:

Shift:

Temporary or Regular?

FTE (Full-Time Equivalent):

Union/Bargaining Unit:

About the UW 

Working at the University of Washington provides a unique opportunity to change lives – on our campuses, in our state and around the world.  

UW employees bring their boundless energy, creative problem-solving skills and dedication to building stronger minds and a healthier world. In return, they enjoy outstanding benefits, opportunities for professional growth and the chance to work in an environment known for its diversity, intellectual excitement, artistic pursuits and natural beauty. 

Our Commitment 

The University of Washington is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful and welcoming community for all. As an equal opportunity employer, the University considers applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, pregnancy, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, disability, or veteran status consistent with UW Executive Order No. 81.

To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact the Disability Services Office at 206-543-6450 or dso@uw.edu. 

Applicants considered for this position will be required to disclose if they are the subject of any substantiated findings or current investigations related to sexual misconduct at their current employment and past employment. Disclosure is required under Washington state law.