Program Assistant I/II - Mariposa County

DEFINITION
Under supervision, the Program Assistant I/II performs responsible project and program work at the clerical/administrative support level which includes interpreting and applying department and division policy and procedures and performing related work as assigned.  May provide lead direction to other staff and/or direction to volunteers.
 
DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS
This is a clerical/administrative support classification that provides support to specific programs and projects as assigned.  This classification differs from the Office Assistant class series in that the latter has a larger focus on administrative support duties whereas the Program Assistant I/II's main emphasis is on specific program support duties.  The difference is on the preponderance of responsibility areas.  If a position provides mostly general office and administrative support duties, then the Office Assistant class series is the proper class allocation, even if the position handles some program support duties.  On the other hand, if the preponderance of the duties is related to support of specific programs with some general office/administrative support duties, then the proper classification is Program Assistant I/II.
 
The Program Assistant I/II is a flexibly-staffed class series.  Positions allocated to the I/II level are normally filled at the I level.  Advancement from the I to the II level is at the discretion of the appointing authority, provided that the incumbent meets the minimum qualifications and demonstrates the ability to independently perform the full scope of the assigned duties.
 
Incumbents in the Program Assistant I level usually perform most of the duties required of the position at the Program Assistant II level, but are not expected to function with the same amount of program knowledge or skill level.  Assignments are limited in scope and are performed within a framework of established procedures.
 
The Program Assistant II is the journey level classification in the Program Assistant series.  Incumbents are expected to complete assignments with minimal supervision and are given increased responsibility and latitude of judgment to complete assignments.  The Program Assistant II works with greater independence of action.  This class exercises lead direction over other staff.
 
The Program Assistant II differs from the Program Assistant I in that the latter classification is the entry level and incumbents receive close supervision.
 
SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED
Receives direction from a department head, management staff, or assigned supervisory staff.
 
Depending on assignment, may exercise lead direction over other staff as assigned.