Administrative Skills, Calendar Management, Detail Oriented, Executive Assistant Skills , Geology, High Reliability, Leadership, Logistics, Logistics Management, Multitasking, Schedule Development, Writing Skills
The Kansas Geological Survey (KGS) is a research and service division of the University of Kansas, employing more than 180 scientific researchers, technical staff, and students across geology, geophysics, energy resources, hydrogeology, GIS, and public outreach. The KGS is led by a Director/State Geologist and four Associate Directors.
This position serves as the primary executive support partner to the Director and State Geologist. The ideal candidate is a highly proactive professional who anticipates the Director’s needs, independently manages logistics and communications, and ensures seamless execution of the Director’s priorities. The position requires sound judgment, discretion with sensitive matters, and the ability to manage complex logistics across internal and external stakeholders with polish and confidence.
Key Attributes for Success:
The successful candidate will demonstrate the following qualities that directly enable executive effectiveness:- Proactive and forward-thinking — anticipates needs before they arise, surfaces issues and solutions without being asked, and stays one step ahead of the Director’s schedule and priorities.
- Logistics mastery — manages complex, multi-stakeholder events and travel flawlessly, with keen attention to detail and contingency awareness.
- Sound independent judgment — handles execution and routine decisions autonomously, while recognizing when to loop in the Director on judgment calls.
- Organizational agility — comfortable managing competing priorities across communications, scheduling, events, and administrative tasks simultaneously.
- Calm under pressure — maintains composure and reliability during high-stakes periods such as in calls with senior university leadership and state officials, during advisory council meetings, and other major events.
- Professionalism and discretion — handles confidential personnel, political, and institutional matters with tact and integrity.
- Strong written communication — drafts and polishes correspondence, meeting materials, and reports that reflect executive-level standards.