The Pacific Ancient and Modern Language Association (PAMLA) is seeking a dependable, detail-oriented Graduate Student Assistant to help carry out a wide range of tasks assigned by Executive Director Dr. Craig Svonkin. This is a paid, part-time position ideal for a graduate student in the humanities who is responsive, organized, and able to follow through on delegated responsibilities.
This is a directive role: the Assistant will work closely with Dr. Svonkin – primarily via phone calls or in person – to work together on specific projects related to PAMLA’s operations, communications, and conference planning. The ideal candidate is someone who can take direction clearly, ask questions when needed, and carry out tasks efficiently. The right assistant needs to be proactive and have good follow-through.
Key Responsibilities:
- Meet regularly with Dr. Svonkin via phone call, or in person, to work together on specific tasks.
- Execute assigned projects promptly and accurately, with attention to detail and follow-through.
- Assist with administrative work including correspondence, scheduling, proofreading, and logistical coordination.
- Most importantly, be available for scheduled and impromptu phone calls.
Essential Qualifications:
- Current graduate study in the humanities.
- Strong organizational and critical thinking skills.
- Verbal communications skills are a must: needs to communicate with the Executive Director whenever they have questions, face a problem, or need direction.
- Strong professional writing skills.
- Willingness to engage in real-time meetings and follow through on tasks without excessive reminders.
- A collegial, respectful attitude and the ability to work independently.
- Reliability: needs to meet agreed upon deadlines.
- Honesty and good character: must protect confidential information and act in a professional manner.
This position provides behind-the-scenes experience in the running of an academic organization and offers practical skills in project coordination and academic administration.
If you have questions about this position, or wish to apply, please email or call Dr. Svonkin to arrange for an interview: director@pamla.org or 626-354-7426.
Candidates for this position will need to provide Dr. Svonkin with a brief application letter, a CV, at least two references, and evidence of their current academic status.