ADMINISTRATIVE SPECIALIST

Administrative Specialist

The Department of Human Services is a place for people passionate about serving others and changing lives for the better. We care for Arkansans of all ages and ensure places like child care centers and nursing homes are safe. We are the safety net for the most vulnerable Arkansans. Whether you answer the phones, take applications, protect children, or help care for residents or patients at one of our facilities, you make a difference by working at DHS. Plus, working for the State has great perks, including a pension, maternity leave, paid state holidays, and much more. At DHS, we take care of our employees so you can help care for others.

The Administrative Specialist works under general supervision and is responsible for performing a wide variety of tasks that are standard or regular support duties within an assigned department or program. This position is governed by state and federal laws and agency / institution policy. This position requires computer keyboarding skills, phone system, clear enunciation, and excellent verbal and written communication skills. Position assignments are dependant on the needs of the office and are determined by management staff.

Must possess a valid Arkansas driver's license (per OPM). Some travel including overnight, lifting up to 20 pounds, frequent stooping and bending, ability to sit for extended periods of time including riding in a vehicle, extensive computer work utilizing Microsoft Office Suite, occasional overtime, ability to utilize current phone system, clear enunciation, and excellent verbal and written communication skills. This position is FSLA exempt, and overtime is not compensated.

The Administrative Specialist is a key administrative support role within a department, responsible for performing a variety of office duties to ensure efficient office operations and support for agency staff and programs. This position involves handling administrative tasks, coordinating schedules, managing documentation, and assisting with customer service. The Administrative Specialist will work closely with team members, supervisors, and the public to maintain smooth and effective office workflows.

Perform a variety of administrative functions, including answering phones, responding to emails, managing office supplies, and maintaining office equipment. Maintain and update office filing systems, both physical and electronic, ensuring that documents are properly organized and easily accessible. Draft and proofread internal and external communications, including memos, reports, and correspondence. Coordinate meetings, appointments, and conferences for agency staff and leadership. Manage calendars, ensuring that appointments, deadlines, and meetings are scheduled efficiently and with attention to priority. Prepare and distribute meeting agendas, take minutes, and track follow-up actions for meetings. Create, maintain, and update records, files, and databases, ensuring accuracy and compliance with agency and state policies. Provide helpful, professional, and timely responses to inquiries, referring questions to appropriate staff when necessary. Accurately input and maintain data in electronic systems, databases, and spreadsheets. Monitor and update records or databases to ensure that information is current and accurate. Ensure that supplies and materials are ordered and available to meet operational needs.

Ability to draft clear, concise, and professional correspondence. Ability to interact with the public, staff, and leadership in a professional and approachable manner. Ability to maintain organized records and files. Ability to assess situations, troubleshoot problems, and implement effective solutions in a timely manner. Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion and in compliance with state and federal privacy laws. Knowledgeable of office software applications (e.g., Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint), and familiarity with office equipment (e.g., copiers, fax machines, phone systems). Proactive in identifying opportunities for process improvement and streamlining office operations.

A high school diploma or equivalent is required.

The State of Arkansas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.