Undergraduate Administrative & Data Entry Student Assistant – Research Institute on Aging

About the Role

Are you an organized, detail-oriented undergraduate student seeking meaningful part-time work that contributes to groundbreaking research on health, well-being, and the aging process? The arenaflex Institute on Aging is looking for a dependable and motivated Undergraduate Administrative & Data Entry Student Assistant to join our dynamic research support team. This is an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a professional research environment while supporting the daily operations of a nationally recognized institute dedicated to understanding the multidimensional aspects of human aging.

The arenaflex Institute on Aging is a hub of cutting-edge research examining health and well-being across the decades of adult life. Our work looks outward to broad influences of class, culture, and race/ethnicity, as well as inward to fine-grained influences of biology, genetics, and neuroscience. Between these two perspectives, we examine proximal influences from work and family life, personal thoughts and feelings, and health practices and behaviors. Collectively, our research emphasizes the potential and strengths of individuals as they age, improves understanding of pathways to disease and impairments associated with growing older, and advances knowledge of resilience in the face of challenge and adversity.

As an Administrative & Data Entry Student Assistant, you will play a critical behind-the-scenes role in keeping our research operations running smoothly. From managing reception coverage to handling sensitive data entry projects, your contributions will directly support the mission of arenaflex and the researchers who depend on accurate, well-organized information to drive their work forward.

Position Details

• Anticipated Start Date: October 21, 2024
• Anticipated Hours Per Week: 10 hours
• Schedule: Flexible scheduling between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday
• Compensation: $12.00 – $13.00 per hour, depending on experience and qualifications
• Number of Open Positions: 2
• Work Location: On-site at the arenaflex Institute on Aging campus location (not remote)

Key Responsibilities

As an Undergraduate Administrative & Data Entry Student Assistant at arenaflex, you will take on a variety of responsibilities that combine administrative support, data management, and event coordination. Your primary duties will include, but are not limited to:

• Reception Area Coverage: Serve as the welcoming face of the Institute, greeting visitors, answering phone calls, and directing inquiries to the appropriate staff members in a courteous and professional manner.
• Document Scanning and Digital File Management: Scan administrative files and organize both digital information and paper records to ensure efficient retrieval and long-term preservation of important documents.
• Supply Inventory Management: Create and maintain inventories for office and research supplies, helping the team stay well-stocked and operationally prepared.
• Event Support: Provide logistical and administrative assistance at departmental events, including setup, coordination, and post-event follow-up tasks.
• Data Entry Projects: Perform regular and special data entry assignments with a high degree of accuracy, including entering research data, updating participant information, and supporting larger data management initiatives.
• Mail Processing: Assist with processing mailing returns by tracing contact information and entering the new information into the database to maintain up-to-date records.
• General Administrative Support: Provide additional support tasks as needed, including running campus errands between various locations and assisting with other operational duties that contribute to the smooth functioning of the Institute.

Physical Demands

This position requires the ability to lift, carry, and move boxes weighing up to a reasonable office capacity, and the ability to efficiently complete campus errands between various locations. Candidates should be comfortable with light physical activity as part of their daily responsibilities.

Essential Qualifications

To be considered for this position, applicants must meet the following minimum requirements:

• Current Enrollment: Must be a current undergraduate student at arenaflex in good academic standing.
• Technical Proficiency: Prior experience using Microsoft Office products, including Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• Summer Availability: Must be available for work during the summer months in addition to the academic year.

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Beyond the essential qualifications, the ideal candidate will demonstrate the following attributes and competencies:

• Attention to Detail: A meticulous approach to tasks, ensuring accuracy in data entry, file organization, and inventory management.
• Problem-Solving Aptitude: The ability to think critically and address challenges independently once familiar with job responsibilities.
• Confidentiality: A strong understanding of the importance of discretion when handling sensitive research data and personal information.
• Reliability: Consistent dependability in showing up on time, completing tasks, and meeting deadlines.
• Task Orientation: A focused, goal-driven mindset that prioritizes efficient task completion.
• Independence: The ability to work autonomously after receiving initial training and guidance.
• Strong Work Ethic: A commitment to producing high-quality work and taking ownership of assigned responsibilities.
• Interpersonal Skills: Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to interact professionally with faculty, staff, students, and external visitors.

Skills and Competencies for Success

Success in this role requires a balanced combination of technical skills, organizational abilities, and interpersonal strengths. Candidates who thrive in this position typically demonstrate proficiency in digital file management, an aptitude for learning new software systems and database tools, and the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously in a fast-paced research environment. Strong written and verbal communication skills are essential, as is the ability to handle confidential information with the utmost discretion. Time management skills and the ability to prioritize tasks will help you balance your academic responsibilities with your work commitments effectively.

Career Growth and Learning Opportunities

Joining the arenaflex Institute on Aging as an Undergraduate Administrative & Data Entry Student Assistant is more than just a part-time job; it is an investment in your professional development. In this role, you will:

• Gain real-world administrative experience in a prestigious research institution, enhancing your resume and building a strong professional foundation.
• Develop advanced data entry and database management skills that are highly transferable to careers in research, healthcare administration, public policy, and nonprofit management.
• Learn about the research process and gain exposure to the operations of a major research institute focused on aging, health, and well-being.
• Build professional networks with faculty, researchers, and administrative professionals who can serve as mentors and references throughout your career.
• Receive on-the-job training and ongoing support to help you grow in your role and prepare for future career opportunities.

Many of our student assistants have gone on to pursue successful careers in research coordination, public health, healthcare administration, and graduate studies. Your work at arenaflex will provide you with valuable insights and experiences that set you apart in competitive academic and professional environments.

Work Environment and Company Culture

At arenaflex, we believe that diversity is a source of strength, creativity, and innovation. We value the contributions of each person and respect the profound ways their identity, culture, background, experience, status, abilities, and opinion enrich our university community. We are committed to the pursuit of excellence in teaching, research, outreach, and diversity as inextricably linked goals.

As a student assistant at the arenaflex Institute on Aging, you will become part of a welcoming, inclusive, and intellectually vibrant community. Our team is collaborative, supportive, and dedicated to fostering an environment where every team member can thrive. We embrace individuals from every background, and we believe that people who serve as students, faculty, and staff enrich the world through their diverse perspectives and experiences.

The Institute on Aging is located on the arenaflex campus, offering a dynamic collegiate atmosphere with access to libraries, recreational facilities, student services, and a wide range of cultural and educational events. Our flexible scheduling allows you to balance your academic commitments with meaningful work experience.

Compensation and Benefits

This position offers a competitive hourly wage of $12.00 – $13.00 per hour, commensurate with experience and qualifications. In addition to competitive pay, student assistants at arenaflex enjoy several valuable benefits, including:

• Flexible Scheduling: Work hours that accommodate your class schedule and academic commitments.
• Professional Development: Access to training, mentorship, and opportunities to build practical skills.
• Networking Opportunities: Direct exposure to faculty, researchers, and administrators in a leading research institute.
• Campus Engagement: Deepened connection to the arenaflex community and its resources.
• Resume-Building Experience: Relevant work experience that strengthens applications for graduate programs, fellowships, and future employment.

Equal Employment Opportunity and Inclusion

arenaflex is an Equal Employment, Equal Access Employer committed to increasing the diversity of our workforce. We celebrate diversity in all its forms and are dedicated to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We believe that a diverse workforce drives innovation, enriches our research, and strengthens our community.

Accommodations for Applicants

If you need to request an accommodation because of a disability, you can find information about how to make a request through the arenaflex employee disabilities resources. We are committed to providing equal access to all applicants and ensuring that every candidate has a fair opportunity to be considered for employment.

How to Apply

If you are a motivated undergraduate student looking to make a meaningful contribution to research that impacts lives across generations, we encourage you to apply for the Undergraduate Administrative & Data Entry Student Assistant position at the arenaflex Institute on Aging. This is your opportunity to develop professionally, work alongside leading researchers, and gain hands-on experience in a supportive and intellectually engaging environment.

Bring your attention to detail, your strong work ethic, and your enthusiasm for learning. In return, arenaflex offers an environment where your contributions are valued, your growth is supported, and your work makes a real difference. We are excited to welcome two new student assistants to our team and look forward to reviewing your application. Apply today and take the first step toward an enriching and rewarding experience at arenaflex.