The College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) is a pioneer of purpose-driven science and Cornell University’s second-largest college. We work across disciplines to tackle the challenges of our time through world-renowned research, education, and outreach. The questions we probe and the answers we seek focus on three overlapping concerns: natural and human systems; food, energy, and environmental resources; and social, physical, and economic well-being.

The Cornell Lab of Ornithology is a renowned nonprofit, member-supported institution dedicated to advancing the understanding and protection of birds, wildlife, and our shared planet through research, education, citizen science, and conservation. We join with people from all backgrounds and abilities to make new scientific discoveries, share insights, and foster conservation action. Our collaborative relationship with the broader Cornell community allows us to tackle the big challenges for science and society, and to translate cutting-edge science, technology and storytelling into real-world impact. Our online resources allow millions of people around the globe to deepen their connection with the natural world.

What We Need

As the Temporary Administrative Assistant, you will provide advanced administrative and logistical support for a university-hosted campaign event and an institutional board meeting. This role supports high-level coordination efforts involving university leadership, trustees, donors, and external stakeholders. Duties include:

Support planning and execution of a Cornell Lab of Ornithology campaign-related event, including coordination of venue, catering, audiovisual services, and event materials
Maintain detailed project plans, timelines, and tracking documents
Serve as a liaison between academic units, administrative offices, and external partners
Provide on-site support, including event setup, registration, and coordination with vendors and staff
Manage guest lists, invitations, and RSVP tracking, including coordination with donors, alumni, and university leadership

We are looking for a talented individual who excels at building and maintaining effective relationships with different stakeholders, has proven strong organizational skills, and is enthusiastic about supporting the Lab of Ornithology. Specifically, we need someone who has the following:

Associate’s Degree and 2+ years of administrative experience, or the equivalent combination of education and experience
Experience supporting events, executive leadership, or board-level activities
Strong organizational and project coordination skills with high attention to detail
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and university systems (or ability to quickly learn)
Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a dynamic environment
Demonstrated ability to handle confidential and sensitive information with discretion
Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work effectively with inclusive constituencies

If you possess these experiences and skills, this may be the role for you! There are a few other qualifications that we would view as incredibly helpful in this role, including:

3+ years of progressively responsible administrative experience in a higher education setting
Experience supporting and/or coordinating large events

This is a temporary two-month (19 hours/week) position. This is a two-month term appointment that is contingent upon available work, funding, and performance.

This position is eligible for a remote or hybrid work arrangement, with hybrid preferred. Employees typically perform this role remotely three days per week within New York State and on-site two days per week in Ithaca, New York. The university reserves the right to modify, suspend, revoke, or terminate the hybrid work arrangement at any time.

Rewards and Benefits

Compensation is $28.55/hour.

No relocation assistance is provided for this position. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Cornell is an equal opportunity employer. For more information, visit hr.cornell.edu/eeo.

University Job Title:

Temporary Administrative Assistant

Job Family:

Temporary Administration

Level:

No Grade - Hourly

Pay Rate Type:

Hourly

Pay Range:

Refer to Posting Language

Remote Option Availability:

Hybrid

Company:

Contact Name:

Janet Camilli

Contact Email:

jer278@cornell.edu

Job Titles and Pay Ranges:

Non-Union Positions

Noted pay ranges reflect the potential pay opportunity for each job profile. The hiring rate of pay for the successful candidate will be determined considering the following criteria:

Prior relevant work or industry experience
Education level to the extent education is relevant to the position
Unique applicable skills
Academic Discipline

To learn more about Cornell’s non-union staff job titles and pay ranges, see Career Navigator.

Union Positions

The hiring rate of pay for the successful candidate will be determined in accordance with the rates in the respective collective bargaining agreement. To learn more about Cornell’s union wages, see Union Pay Rates.

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EEO Statement:

Cornell welcomes students, faculty, and staff with diverse backgrounds from across the globe to pursue world-class education and career opportunities, to further the founding principle of “... any person ... any study.” No person shall be denied employment on the basis of any legally protected status or subjected to prohibited discrimination involving, but not limited to, such factors as race, ethnic or national origin, citizenship and immigration status, color, sex, pregnancy or pregnancy-related conditions, age, creed, religion, actual or perceived disability (including persons associated with such a person), arrest and/or conviction record, military or veteran status, sexual orientation, gender expression and/or identity, an individual’s genetic information, domestic violence victim status, familial status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

Cornell University embraces diversity in its workforce and seeks job candidates who will contribute to a climate that supports students, faculty, and staff of all identities and backgrounds. We hire based on merit, and encourage people from historically underrepresented and/or marginalized identities to apply. Consistent with federal law, Cornell engages in affirmative action in employment for qualified protected veterans as defined in the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRAA) and qualified individuals with disabilities under Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act. We also recognize a lawful preference in employment practices for Native Americans living on or near Indian reservations in accordance with applicable law.

2026-04-02

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