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Harvard University

Executive Assistant (Social Science’s Dean’s Office)

Closes:

661

Posting date: September 15, 2026

003699SR

Company Description

By working at Harvard University, you join a vibrant community that advances Harvard's world-changing mission in meaningful ways, inspires innovation and collaboration, and builds skills and expertise. We are dedicated to creating a diverse and welcoming environment where everyone can thrive.

Why join the Harvard Faculty of Arts and Sciences?

The Faculty of Arts and Sciences (FAS) is the historic heart of Harvard University. It is the home of Harvard’s undergraduate program (Harvard College, founded in 1636) as well as all of Harvard’s Ph.D. programs (the Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, founded in 1872), Harvard Athletics and the Division of Continuing Education. The 40 academic departments and 30+ centers of the FAS support a community unparalleled in its academic excellence across the broadest range of liberal arts and sciences disciplines. Together, the FAS seeks to foster an environment of ambition, curiosity and shared commitment to knowledge and truth that elicits excellence from all members of our community and prepares the next generation of leaders through a transformative educational experience.

Job Description

Job Summary:

The Executive assistant serves as the primary point of contact for the Social Science’s Dean’s Office and provides high-level administrative, scheduling, and communications support for the Dean. The Executive Assistant reports to the Director of Strategy and Programs and may provide administrative support to others within the Division of Social Sciences office as needed.

Job-Specific Responsibilities:

Front Office and Reception

  • Act as the primary point of contact for the Social Sciences Dean’s Office by greeting visitors and guests in a welcoming and professional manner, answering phones, and fielding general inquiries.

Calendar and Meeting Management

  • Manage complex calendar for the Social Sciences Dean, including scheduling meetings, balancing priorities, anticipating needs, and proactively troubleshooting scheduling conflicts.
  • Assist with agenda preparation for standing meetings and track action items to ensure timely follow up and resolution.

Events and Travel

  • Coordinate logistical details for meetings and events
  • Coordinate travel logistics for the Dean

Financial and Administrative Support

  • Prepare expense reports on behalf of Social Sciences Dean
  • Maintain up-to-date mailing and distribution lists, and assist with the dissemination of information to internal and external stakeholders.
  • Maintain the electronic filing system for general administrative records and materials.
  • Maintain office equipment and supplies, including shared printers, photocopiers, and reception area, to ensure smooth day-to-day office operations.

Communications and Digital Presence

  • Maintain and update the Social Science Division website
  • Review the Dean’s email inbox daily to remove junk mail, flag messages requiring attention, and catch invitations, meeting details, and time-sensitive or urgent requests.
  • Develop automated rules for routing incoming messages
  • Draft templates to accurately address routine inquiries on the Dean’s behalf.
  • Other tasks and projects as assigned.

Working Conditions:

  • This is a full-time position with the expectation to be on site in Cambridge, MA at least 4 days per week. There may be the additional expectation of in-person attendance for specific meetings and events. Schedule details to be discussed during the interview process.

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications:

  • 3 or more years of experience as an Executive Assistant or in a role providing administrative support.

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

  • High level of independent judgment, initiative, discretion, collegiality, professionalism, confidentiality, and attention to detail.
  • Excellent verbal and written communications skills are required.
  • Demonstrated ability to triage and prioritize a high volume of time-sensitive tasks and communications.
  • Fluency in Microsoft Office applications including Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint in a Mac OS environment as well as Office 365 collaboration tools (Teams, SharePoint, OneDrive, etc.), Google Suite applications, and Zoom.

Additional Information

  • Standard Hours/Schedule: 35 hours per week
  • Compensation Range/Rate (including Shift Differential if applicable):
  • Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position
  • Pre-Employment Screening: Identity
  • Other Information:
    • This is a full-time position with the expectation to be on site in Cambridge, MA at least 4 days per week. There may be the additional expectation of in-person attendance for specific meetings and events. Schedule details to be discussed during the interview process.

Work Format Details

This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that some of the duties and responsibilities can be effectively performed at a non-Harvard location. The work schedule and location will be set by the department at its discretion and based upon operational needs. When not working at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location, employees in hybrid positions must work in a Harvard registered state in compliance with the University’s Policy on Employment Outside of Massachusetts. Additional details will be discussed during the interview process. Certain visa types and funding sources may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.

Salary Grade and Ranges

This position is salary grade level 054. Please visit Harvard's Salary Ranges to view the corresponding salary range and related information.

Benefits

Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package that is designed to support a healthy work-life balance and your physical, mental and financial wellbeing. Because here, you are what matters. Our benefits include, but are not limited to:

  • Generous paid time off including parental leave
  • Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one
  • Retirement plans with university contributions
  • Wellbeing and mental health resources
  • Support for families and caregivers
  • Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement
  • Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks

Learn more about these and additional benefits on our Benefits & Wellbeing Page.

EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement

Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes.

Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university's non-discrimination policy. Harvard's equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.

Job details

Title
Executive Assistant (Social Science’s Dean’s Office)
Employer
Harvard University
Location
Cambridge
Published
Sep 17, 2026
Closes:
Nov 16, 2026
Job type
Full time, Staff / Administration
Field
Executive Assistants

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Frequently Asked Questions

🎓What are the minimum qualifications for the Harvard Executive Assistant role?

Candidates must have at least 3 years of experience as an Executive Assistant or in a role providing administrative support. Required technical skills include Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint) in a Mac OS environment, Office 365 collaboration tools such as Teams, SharePoint, and OneDrive, plus Google Suite and Zoom. You will also need excellent verbal and written communication skills, independent judgment, discretion, and attention to detail. Explore administrative jobs in higher education to compare similar qualifications.

🛂Does Harvard University provide visa sponsorship for this Executive Assistant position?

No. Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position. Applicants must already have US work authorization. For more context on hiring policies at top institutions, visit Ivy League schools.

📍What is the work schedule and location for the Social Sciences Dean's Office Executive Assistant?

This is a full-time position with a standard schedule of 35 hours per week. The role is based in Cambridge, MA and requires on-site presence at least 4 days per week, with additional in-person attendance possible for specific meetings and events. When not on campus, hybrid work must be performed in a Harvard registered state. Browse university jobs for more flexible academic roles.

📋What are the primary duties of the Executive Assistant in the Social Sciences Dean's Office?

Primary duties include managing the Dean's complex calendar, scheduling meetings, tracking action items, coordinating travel logistics and events, preparing expense reports, and maintaining the Social Science Division website. You will also serve as the primary point of contact for the front office, review and triage the Dean's email inbox, maintain filing systems, and handle office equipment and supplies. See executive jobs in higher education for related roles.

🏥What benefits does Harvard University offer for this Executive Assistant job?

Harvard provides a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision insurance starting on day one, retirement plans with university contributions, generous paid time off including parental leave, wellbeing and mental health resources, family care support, tuition assistance, and commuter benefits. Learn more about university salaries or read higher ed career advice.

📝How do I apply for the Harvard Executive Assistant (Social Sciences Dean's Office) position?

Submit your application through the official Harvard University careers portal before the deadline. Tailor your resume to highlight 3+ years of executive assistant experience, calendar management, and proficiency with Microsoft Office 365, Google Suite, and Zoom. If needed, use the free resume template and review administrative job postings for application tips.

About the employer

Harvard University Jobs

Harvard University

4.0 Star Employer Ranking

Harvard University offers a diverse range of job and work opportunities across various categories, reflecting its status as a leading academic and research institution. These opportunities cater to different skill sets, academic backgrounds, and career stages. Harvard University Academic Positions - click here . Harvard University Staff Jobs - click here . The main types of jobs and work opportunities at Harvard: 1. Faculty and Academic Positions Tenure-Track Faculty : These roles include assistant, associate, and full professors across Harvard’s schools (e.g., Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Harvard Medical School, Harvard Business School). Faculty engage in teaching, research, and service. Qualifications typically include a Ph.D. or equivalent terminal degree, a strong research portfolio, and teaching experience. Openings vary by department and school, with competitive hiring processes. Non-Tenure-Track Faculty : Includes lecturers, preceptors, and visiting professors. These roles focus primarily on teaching or short-term research projects and may require a Ph.D. or significant expertise in the field. Research Appointments : Postdoctoral fellowships, research associates, and scientists work on cutting-edge research in fields like medicine, engineering, humanities, and social sciences. These positions often require advanced degrees and are funded through grants or specific research programs. 2. Administrative and Professional Staff Administrative Roles : These include positions in academic administration (e.g., deans’ offices, registrar, admissions), student services, and program management. Examples include academic program coordinators, admissions officers, and financial aid advisors. These roles often require a bachelor’s or master’s degree and relevant experience. Professional Staff : Harvard employs professionals in areas like human resources, finance, communications, development (fundraising), and alumni relations. Examples include HR specialists, financial analysts, and marketing managers. These positions typically require specialized skills or certifications. Executive and Leadership Roles : Senior positions like directors, department heads, or executive administrators oversee operations in specific units or schools. These roles demand extensive experience and leadership skills. 3. Research and Laboratory Staff Research Support Staff : Includes lab managers, research technicians, and data analysts who support faculty and postdoctoral researchers in labs across disciplines like biology, chemistry, physics, and medicine. These roles often require technical skills, such as proficiency in lab equipment or data analysis software. Clinical Research Roles : At Harvard Medical School and affiliated hospitals, clinical research coordinators and specialists support medical and health-related studies. These positions may require certifications like Good Clinical Practice (GCP) training. 4. Technical and IT Staff Information Technology : Harvard employs IT professionals for roles like systems administrators, software developers, cybersecurity analysts, and data scientists to support its technological infrastructure. These positions require expertise in areas like cloud computing, AI, or network management. Library and Information Services : Harvard’s extensive library system hires librarians, archivists, and digital resource specialists. These roles often require a master’s degree in library science or related fields. 5. Support and Operations Staff Facilities and Operations : Includes roles in maintenance, custodial services, groundskeeping, and security. These positions ensure the smooth operation of Harvard’s campus and may not require advanced degrees but often need specific training or certifications. Dining and Hospitality : Harvard’s dining services employ chefs, food service workers, and catering staff to support campus dining halls and events. Administrative Support : Roles like executive assistants, office managers, and receptionists provide critical support to departments and faculty. 6. Student and Temporary Opportunities Student Employment : Harvard offers on-campus jobs for students, including work-study positions in libraries, dining halls, labs, and administrative offices. These roles are typically part-time and designed to accommodate academic schedules. Temporary and Seasonal Work : Temporary roles, such as event staff or short-term project assistants, are available for non-students as well. These are often listed through Harvard’s temporary staffing services. 7. Medical and Healthcare Roles Clinical and Healthcare Staff : Through Harvard Medical School and affiliated hospitals (e.g., Massachusetts General Hospital, Brigham and Women’s Hospital), opportunities exist for physicians, nurses, medical technicians, and other healthcare professionals. These roles require medical licenses or certifications. Public Health Professionals : The Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health employs researchers, policy analysts, and program managers focused on global health initiatives. 8. Creative and Media Roles Arts and Culture : Harvard’s museums (e.g., Harvard Art Museums) and cultural institutions hire curators, educators, and exhibition staff. The American Repertory Theater employs artists, stage managers, and production staff. Communications and Media : Roles in writing, graphic design, social media, and public relations support Harvard’s outreach and branding efforts. Key Characteristics of Harvard Jobs Diversity of Roles : Harvard’s workforce spans academic, administrative, technical, and operational functions, with opportunities for both entry-level and highly specialized professionals. Competitive Benefits : Harvard offers comprehensive benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, tuition assistance, and professional development. Faculty and staff also gain access to Harvard’s libraries, museums, and cultural events. Global Impact : Many roles, especially in research and public health, contribute to global advancements in knowledge and policy. Location : Most positions are based in Cambridge or Boston, Massachusetts, with some remote or hybrid options, particularly for administrative and IT roles. How to Find Opportunities Harvard Careers Portal : The primary resource for job listings is Harvard’s Human Resources website (hr.harvard.edu/jobs), which lists openings for faculty, staff, and temporary roles. School-Specific Listings : Each Harvard school (e.g., Harvard College, Harvard Law School) may post specialized positions on their websites. Networking and Referrals : Many academic and research roles are filled through professional networks or direct outreach to departments. X Platform : Searching for “Harvard University jobs” on X can reveal real-time discussions, job postings, or employee experiences, though these should be verified through official channels. Additional Notes Qualifications : Requirements vary widely. Faculty roles typically need advanced degrees, while support roles may prioritize experience or specific skills. Work Environment : Harvard emphasizes diversity, inclusion, and collaboration, with opportunities for professional growth and community engagement. Application Process : Most positions require an online application through Harvard’s careers portal, including a resume, cover letter, and sometimes additional materials like teaching statements or research portfolios.

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