Fresh Profile: Administrative Assistant Jobs

Published on 2008-03-20

The administrative assistant is a true multitasker. Besides handling the traditional clerical duties of a secretary, an admin assistant is often a de facto office manager who orchestrates executive schedules, communicates with personnel, manages projects, maintains both paper and electronic records, creates reports and PowerPoint presentations, makes travel arrangements, purchases supplies, etc. Few office jobs provide such wide-ranging responsibility, and for many admins, that's a big part of the job's appeal.

Needless to say, the qualifications needed to apply for administrative assistant jobs have also evolved. At most companies, a two-year or four-year degree is a basic requirement. Computer literacy is a must, including familiarity with popular software applications and desktop publishing. Fluency in another language is beneficial. If applying for a position as a legal or medical administrative assistant, completion of a specialized training program may be necessary. Certifications such as CAP (Certified Administrative Professional) and CPS (Certified Professional Secretary) are also helpful.

Depending on the company, the scope of admin jobs can change with the individual. Advancement or greater responsibility may be obtained by taking initiative with company projects or gaining new skills through on-the-job training or educational programs. Supplementing experience with specialized education may enable assistant admins to cross over into higher-paying finance, legal or health administration jobs. Another possible career path for experienced, educated and motivated individuals is that of an executive administrative assistant, a position that usually involves greater responsibility, higher pay and more complex and rewarding challenges.

The median annual pay for admin assistant jobs is around $38,000, though in some industries, administrative assistants can make anywhere from $40,000 to $60,000, particularly when working as an executive assistant.

Whether you're looking for full time or part time admin jobs, Fresho.com has the tools you need for a fast, free and effective job search. For administrative jobs in California, New York or anywhere else in the U.S., make Fresho.com your first stop.