Operational Support Assistant III (Part-Time) (Extended Temporary Employment)

The Pima County Cooperative Extension is seeking an enthusiastic and organized individual to fill the position of Operational Support Assistant III.
This position assists with managing day-to-day administrative functions for The Garden Kitchen (GK) program. The incumbent will coordinate financial and travel matters, create annual reporting data, and monitor the evaluation of programs. A high degree of professionalism, organization, discretion, initiative, collaboration, and ability to follow instructions while using good judgment and problem-solving skills is expected. The candidate must be capable of performing various tasks independently and under the direction of a supervisor.

This is a remote and Extended Temporary Employment (ETE) position that is expected to end in August 2026.

The University of Arizona has been recognized for our innovative work-life programs. For more information about working at the University of Arizona and relocations services, please click here.

P-Card & Travel:

• Deliver support for department purchasing card activities by independently troubleshooting issues and ensuring documentation is complete and compliant with university requirements.
• Reconcile and compile p-card purchases, identifying and resolving discrepancies, and maintain all records per established procedures.
• Directly respond to employee inquiries and interpret policies and procedures regarding P-Card and travel, using extensive job knowledge and judgment to resolve difficult cases or escalate when required.
• Independently prepare and process employee travel authorizations in University systems, addressing any unusual case or system issue through appropriate resolution or referral.

Reporting & Financial Documentation:

• Collect, organize, and maintain annual reporting data for programs, proactively identifying areas for data integrity or process optimization.
• Reconcile and maintain data in relevant systems, troubleshooting discrepancies and proposing corrective actions for supervisor approval.
• Prepare and review business office documents, including financial reconciliation and reimbursement forms, ensuring accuracy, completeness, and compliance prior to distribution.
• Identify sources of error in reports and resolve routine issues independently; escalate non-routine or complex discrepancies to supervisors with recommendations for action.

Operations & Process Improvement:

• Regularly review, update, and improve operational processes and practices, recommending solutions for increased efficiency and effectiveness.
• Support implementation of established and new procedures for daily operations, interpreting policy as needed and collaborating with team members to resolve operational challenges or implement improvements.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to handle confidential and sensitive financial information.
• Ability to communicate effectively with different groups/individuals.
• Knowledge of accounting principles.
• Ability to organize large quantities of information.
• Ability to keep meticulous records.

This job posting reflects the general nature and level of work expected of the selected candidate(s). It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. The institution reserves the right to amend or update this description as organizational priorities and institutional needs evolve.

• High school diploma or high school diploma equivalency is required.
• Five years of relevant experience, or equivalent combination of education and work experience.
• Must have a valid driver's license and ability to drive according to the University Fleet Safety Policy.

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in a relevant field.
• Experience in higher education.
• Prior experience with purchasing card transactions and handling travel.
• Knowledge of and experience with SNAP-Ed program content and accounting principles.
• Familiarity with Pima County Cooperative Extension, particularly the Garden Kitchen program.
• Experience with UAccess and University of Arizona accounting processes, including disbursement vouchers and the usage of Concur travel policies and website.
• Ability to read, write, and speak in Spanish.