University of Washington Human Resources

Program Assistant

UW CODE AND REPRESENTATIVE GROUP

CLASS SERIES CONCEPT

Perform work requiring knowledge and experience that is specific to a program. Organize and perform work related to program operations independent of the daily administrative office needs of the supervisor. Represent the program to clients, participants and/or members of the public.

A program is a specialized area with specific complex components and discrete tasks which distinguish it from the main body of an organization. A program is specific to a particular subject. The specialized tasks involve interpretation of policies, procedures and regulations, budget coordination/administration, independent functioning and typically, public contact. Duties are not of a general support nature transferable from one program to another. Performance of clerical duties is in support of incumbent’s performance of specialized tasks.

BASIC FUNCTION

Perform specialized technical/clerical duties in support of a program activity.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

Under general supervision, perform work requiring knowledge and experience specific to the program. Provide students, staff, program participants and/or the public with information and interpretation of policies and activities related to the program specialty. Compose written communications, and establish and maintain records relating to program operations.

TYPICAL WORK

Within the specialized program:

Serve as primary contact with program participants; provide information regarding program policies and activities; perform a variety of public relations functions;
Compose correspondence, printed materials, and/or news releases related to program policies, procedures, and operations; edit materials for accuracy, appearance, readability, and style;

Compile and distribute information relative to program activities, confer with other campus departments and outside agencies; serve as resource person for campus committees concerned with program operations; interpret statistical data, historical activity reports, and other materials in the functional area;

Coordinate arrangements for program activities such as meetings, conferences, and banquets;

Schedule appointments and meetings;

Maintain and monitor budget and inform supervisor of status;

Establish and maintain records and files, record statistical information;

Prepare narrative and/or statistical reports regarding program operations;

Perform complex word processing tasks such as merging and sorting, integrating text with graphics, spreadsheet and data base files, uploading and downloading and creating footnotes and outlines;

Use spreadsheet and data base software to develop and maintain records;

Use basic statistical software packages and simple computer inquiry programming;

Use graphics software and make recommendations regarding appropriate display of graphic information;

May order, receive, and maintain inventory;

May use desk top publishing software;

May direct the work of others;

Perform related duties as required.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

High school graduation or equivalent

AND

Two years of clerical experience

OR

Equivalent education/experience.

CLASS SPECIFICATION HISTORY

• Revised MQs: 09-08-2023
• Revised New Class Code: November 25, 2013;
• Class adopted for UW contract classified staff per PERC decision to add this title to SEIU 925 Contact Center bargaining unit, effective November 25, 2013 (Case #23546-E-10-3593). Incorporates the work of SEIU 925 Clerical Nonsupervisory bargaining unit, job code 7255, Program Assistant.
• New Class (P.A. I & II): 1-3-73
• New Class (P.A. III): 12-14-73
• Revise Class (P.A. I): 9-19-75
• Revise Class/Title: 7-1-91
• CSR Class Conversion (mc): 06-01-05