About the opportunity
The Department of Political Science at the University of Cologne’s Faculty of Management, Economics and Social Sciences is seeking a Department Coordinator. The role involves strategic and operational management of the department, focusing on financial, budget, and third-party funding management, as well as personnel planning and the development of modern management structures. The position is based in Cologne, Germany, and operates within a dynamic, internationally visible team.
Salary and benefits
- Independent and diverse activities in a cosmopolitan and modern working environment.
- Diverse and equitable working environment.
- Support for balancing professional and family life.
- Flexible working time models.
- Extensive continuing education opportunities.
- Occupational health management offers.
- Possibility for mobile work.
- Remuneration according to pay grade 11 TV-L, subject to collective agreement and personal requirements.
Who can apply?
- Completed relevant university degree (Bachelor or Master, e.g., in administration, economics, or social sciences).
- Several years of relevant professional experience, ideally in university/science management or public administration.
- In-depth knowledge of budget, grant, and third-party funding law, with proven experience managing large third-party projects (e.g., DFG, EU/ERC).
- Sound knowledge of university financial and personnel administration, and proficiency with SAP, common Office, and CMS applications.
- Strong conceptual and analytical skills, and the ability to independently manage and strategically develop complex processes.
- Strong organizational, coordination, and communication skills, with a high service orientation and a professional demeanor.
- Very good German language skills and business-fluent English skills (at least C1 GER level); English is the working language of the department.
Required documents
- Comprehensive application documents.
- Supporting evidence of required qualifications.
When to apply
- The position is available immediately.
- The application deadline is September 13, 2026.
How to apply
- Submit a comprehensive application including supporting evidence of the same qualifications online via the university's job portal.
- Do not include a photo in the application.
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Professionals with several years of experience in university or public administration.
- Experts in budget, grant, and third-party funding law (e.g., DFG, EU/ERC).
- Proficiency in SAP and university financial/personnel administration.
- Bilingual proficiency in German and English.
What should you think carefully about?
- The role requires very good German language skills and business-fluent English (C1), making it a non-starter for those without high proficiency in both.
- Relocation to Cologne may be necessary as the role is hybrid, but requires a presence on-site.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This is a career-defining role for someone looking to lead strategic finance and personnel operations within a prestigious political science department. It offers the chance to develop modern management structures in an internationally visible team.
Our take
A strong fit for experienced university administrators with deep expertise in German public funding and SAP, who are looking for a permanent, high-level management role.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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