Administrative Assistants

About This Job
Administrative assistants perform a variety of administrative duties in support of managerial and professional employers.

People in this occupation

 * make sure an offices administrative functions are carried out, organize events and meetings, manage distribution of information and keep track of records
 * are employed throughout the private and the public sectors
 * should have well-developed interpersonal and organizational skills
 * should have an interest in working both independently and as part of a team in an office setting
 * require diplomacy as well as good written and verbal communication skills and an ability to carry out instructions
 * should have good attention to detail, quick keyboarding skills and knowledge of office software

Annual median Salary
$45,883

Hourly rate

 * High: $30.00/hr
 * Median: $22.00/hr
 * Low: $14.42/hr

Administrative assistants

 * prepare, key in, edit and proofread correspondence, invoices, presentations, brochures, publications, reports and related material from machine dictation and handwritten copy
 * open and distribute incoming regular and electronic mail and other material and co-ordinate the flow of information internally and with other departments and organizations
 * schedule and confirm appointments and meetings of employer
 * order office supplies and maintain inventory
 * answer telephone and electronic enquirers and relay telephone calls and messages
 * set up and maintain manual and computerized information filing systems
 * determine and establish office procedures
 * greet visitors, ascertain nature of business and direct visitors to employer or appropriate person
 * record and prepare minutes of meetings
 * arrange travel schedules and make reservations
 * may compile data, statistics and other information to support research activities
 * may supervise and train office staff in procedures and in use of current software.
 * may organize conferences

Work Environment
Administrative assistants work in a wide variety of industries, generally from Monday to Friday.

Administrative assistants spend a great amount of time on computer work, which can put stress on their neck, back, shoulders and eyes. Well-designed equipment, such as headsets for those who spend a lot of time on the phone, can be helpful.

There is significant opportunity for flexible work arrangements. Administrative assistants who work with a placement agency (also known as a “temp" agency) work on short-term placements with private sector client companies and government clients.

Education, training & qualifications
Completion of secondary school is generally required. Other training or requirements may include:
 * Completion of a one- or two-year college or other program for administrative assistants or secretaries

Skills

 * Clerical Ability
 * Numerical Ability
 * Detail-Oriented
 * Finger Dexterity