Administrative Specialist CL2 - Departments of History and Political Science

The University of Southern Maine’s Departments of History and Political Science are seeking an Administrative Specialist CL2.   

This position supports the daily operations of the office including, but not limited to:

• Providing a full range of communications, both verbally and in writing, regarding non-routine questions, issues and procedures.
• Handling the most complex and sensitive customer/student requests requiring a comprehensive understanding of relevant policies, procedures and rules.
• Preparing individualized responses for non-routine and/or escalated issues.
• Planning and coordinating complex projects and events including related budgeting.

The ideal candidate will bring strong administrative expertise, outstanding communication skills, and a dedication to supporting a vibrant academic setting. The role requires discretion and the ability to manage confidential information concerning students and faculty. This position offers the opportunity to contribute to a collaborative and engaging environment that advances scientific learning and research.

The University of Southern Maine's Department of History offers a diverse and engaging curriculum that explores global, national, and regional histories. The department emphasizes critical thinking, research, and analytical skills, preparing students for careers in education, law, public history, and more. With a focus on interdisciplinary learning and experiential opportunities, students benefit from small class sizes, faculty mentorship, and connections to Maine’s rich historical resources. 

The Department of Political Science offers a dynamic and student-centered environment dedicated to the study of politics, governance, and public life at the local, national, and global levels. The department emphasizes critical thinking, civic engagement, and applied learning, preparing students for careers in public service, law, policy, advocacy, and related fields. 

This Administrative Specialist position will pay a starting rate of $19.61/hour for a new hire or the appropriate transfer rate for a current employee with the University of Maine System, as determined by the Associated Clerical Office Laboratory Technical Staff of the Universities of Maine (ACSUM/COLT).  This is a full-time, in-person position based on our Portland Campus.   

This position provides a terrific opportunity to pursue a bachelor’s or advanced degree through the university’s generous tuition waiver benefit.

The University of Southern Maine offers highly competitive benefits for full-time and eligible part-time employees that includes (but is not limited to):

• 14 paid holidays plus earned vacation time and sick time
• Health, dental and vision insurance
• Low-cost short-term disability insurance and employer-paid long-term disability insurance
• Employer-paid basic life insurance and supplemental life insurance
• A tuition waiver program for employees and their spouse or dependent child(ren)
• A 403(b)-retirement plan with employer contribution
• Free access to the METRO system, including the Husky Line with service between our Portland and Gorham campuses

To learn more, please review the Benefits Information Summary.  

The University of Southern Maine is a vibrant academic community located in the greater Portland, Maine area, including campuses in Portland, Gorham, Lewiston, and online. USM is part of the University of Maine System and offers a comprehensive array of undergraduate and graduate programs, emphasizing hands-on learning, community engagement, and interdisciplinary collaboration. With a highly engaged student-centered learning environment, USM is a steward of higher education, helping drive the economic, cultural, and civic life in the communities where our campuses are located and beyond.  USM is committed to providing expanded access to high-quality education that elevates economic opportunity and contributes significantly to the vitality of a diverse society. To learn more about USM, visit About Our University. 

The University of Southern Maine fosters a welcoming and supportive campus environment that respects and appreciates diverse perspectives, enhancing teaching, learning, personal growth, and overall institutional achievement.  We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds who share our dedication to academic excellence and the enrichment of our community.

We are dedicated to our Service Promise, Student Focused Every Day and seek a team member who embraces this commitment and upholds our core values of Respect & Care, Integrity, Equity, and Responsiveness. 

Required Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent (G.E.D.) or international degree equivalency
• 1+ years of administrative support experience
• Excellent communication and customer service skills
• Computer proficiency, including experience working with spreadsheets
• Ability to handle confidential information related to students and faculty

To apply, click on ‘Apply Now’ or visit our USM Careers Page and submit the following:

• Cover Letter
• Resume/Curriculum Vitae
• Finalist candidates will be asked to provide a list of the names and contact information for references

For full consideration please submit all required materials by April 29, 2026. 

We are not able to consider applicants who require Visa sponsorship support.

Appropriate background screening will be conducted for the successful candidate.

The University of Maine System (the System) is an equal opportunity institution committed to fostering a nondiscriminatory environment and complying with all applicable nondiscrimination laws. Consistent with State and Federal law, the System does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, transgender status, gender, gender identity or expression, ethnicity, national origin, citizenship status, familial status, ancestry, age, disability (physical or mental), genetic information, pregnancy, or veteran or military status in any aspect of its education, programs and activities, and employment. The System provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. If you believe you have experienced discrimination or harassment, you are encouraged to contact the System Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX Services at 5713 Chadbourne Hall, Room 412, Orono, ME 04469-5713, by calling 207.581.1226, or via TTY at 711 (Maine Relay System). For more information about Title IX or to file a complaint, please contact the UMS Title IX Coordinator.

Clery Act:

The Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, or Clery Act, mandates that all Title IV institutions, such as the University, prepare, publish, and distribute an Annual Security Report (ASR), and provide notice of the availability of the ASR to all prospective employees. This report consists of two basic parts: disclosure of the University’s crime statistics for the past three calendar years; and disclosures regarding the University’s current campus security policies. View the University’s Annual Security Report (PDF). If you wish to have a paper copy of the ASR or need to have a copy of the ASR in an accessible format, the University will provide such a copy upon request. Please contact our Public Safety Office at 207.780.5211.