Chicago Center for Urban Life and Culture Short-term Program Assistant Chicago, IL · Part time

Apply for Short-term Program Assistant

The Chicago Center for Urban Life and Culture equips college students and other participants to learn from diverse urban communities through innovative programs, seminars, and internships. Together, these centers are redefining urban internships. The programs emphasize innovative, community-focused pedagogies that not only expand the traditional college classroom experience but also promote self-awareness, global citizenship, and engagement with issues like race, equity, and inclusion through critical place-based pedagogies. In 2023, the Chicago Center for Urban Life and Culture began managing The Philadelphia Center, an urban experiential learning program that integrates urban living, academic study, and professional development with every student’s experience. We use the city as a classroom, providing social and academic support through thought-provoking courses.

With the Short-term Program Team and Chicago Center staff, the Short-term Program Assistant temporary position collaborates, coordinates, staffs, and communicates with various stakeholders on important program administration including, but not limited to: program staffing and post-program administration.

Attention to detail and a hands-on approach in setting up program environments are essential for success in this role.

 

• Assist the Short-term Program Team and staff in administering a variety of program-related tasks.
• Staff short-term programs, escorting and supervising participants throughout the city to scheduled events and locations.
• Prepare, set up, and manage classrooms, meeting rooms, or field spaces, equipping them with necessary materials for presenters and participants.
• Respond promptly to emails and text messages, and answer calls, providing timely information and addressing inquiries related to the programs, as necessary.
• Make reservations and arrangements for off-site business meetings and program-related events.
• Process payments for vendors and suppliers in a timely and accurate manner.
• Liaise with faculty, students, consultants, and field office staff, delivering logistical and administrative support as needed.
• Update and manage program schedules, keeping track of pre-departure tasks.
• Create, assign, and review program forms, customizing and editing pre-departure guides for specific programs or destinations.
• Proactively identify and communicate any issues, offering solutions when necessary.
• Reconcile financial transactions associated with the program to ensure fiscal responsibility.
• Other duties/projects as assigned and/or required.

 

Qualifications:

• 2+ years' experience, and 1 years’ experience in Chicago
• Dedication to high quality customer service
• Strong problem solving skills
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
• Demonstrated problem-solving abilities and a proactive attitude in addressing challenges.
• Flexibility to adapt to changing schedules and program needs.
• Ability to organize and prioritize multiple projects simultaneously and to meet deadlines
• Strong oral and written skills with the ability to communicate well with various constituents
• Maintains a positive can-do attitude even during stressful situations
• Takes responsibility for actions, results and mistakes
• Act in a professional manner at all times
• Ability to exercise sound judgment when handling a variety of issues
• Ability to manage multiple projects in fast-paced environment
• Strong computer skills, including but not limited to Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel