BUSINESS SUPPORT SPECIALIST I

Position Overview: The University of Missouri’s Soil Health Assessment Center is seeking a detail-oriented and organized Business Support Specialist I to provide administrative, financial, and operational support. This role is essential to ensuring smooth business operations within the laboratory and maintaining accurate records for clients, employees, and financial transactions. The ideal candidate will be proactive, customer-service oriented, and capable of handling multiple responsibilities efficiently.

Responsibilities

• Prepare client invoices, issue payment receipts, process and record payments, and monitor account receivables to ensure timely collection for laboratory services.
• Process hiring paperwork and other HR-related documentation, submit personnel action forms, and track onboarding materials.
• Maintain time records and review payroll reports for part-time and temporary employees.
• Serve as the first point of contact for the Soil Health Assessment Center (SHAC) by greeting visitors, fielding phone and email inquiries, and providing general information to clients, agency partners, and the public.
• Coordinate incoming shipments, log deliveries, and manage unscheduled or inappropriate shipments per lab protocols.
• Accurately enter and maintain data in databases and internal systems, including client information, lab requests, and financial records, ensuring confidentiality.
• Oversee the procurement of office and laboratory supplies, ensuring timely ordering and proper reconciliation in accordance with university purchasing policies.
• Provide logistical support for meetings, events, and special projects.
• Perform other administrative duties and support tasks as assigned by supervisors or the laboratory director.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or an equivalent combination of education and experience from which comparable knowledge and skills can be acquired is necessary.

Qualifications

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple tasks with accuracy and attention to detail.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Excel, Word, Outlook) and familiarity with digital systems or databases.
• Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to work both independently and collaboratively.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, accounting, agricultural sciences, agricultural economics, environmental sciences, or a related field.
• At least one year of administrative or business operations experience in a professional, academic, or laboratory setting.
• Familiarity with laboratory operations, agricultural extension, or research support environments.
• Experience with billing systems, purchasing software, or HRIS platforms.

Pay

The anticipated hiring range for this position is $15.10 - $20.19 hourly. Salary is determined by a variety of factors, including but not limited to, the individual’s particular combination of education, skills, and experience, as well as organizational requirements.

Schedule

8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Monday - Friday

Benefits

This position is eligible for University benefits. As part of your total compensation, the University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Medical, dental, and vision plans
• Retirement contributions
• Paid time off
• Short- and long-term disability
• Paid parental leave
• Paid caregiver leave
• Educational fee discounts for all four UM System campuses