Administrative Assistant/Administrator

An administrative assistant/administrator is responsible for providing administrative support for an office or department.

The work may include:

• dealing with internal and external correspondence
• word processing documents, such as letters, presentations and reports
• monitoring stationery supplies and reordering when necessary
• using office equipment, such as printers, scanners and photocopiers
• answering the telephone and directing calls
• setting up and maintaining filing systems
• updating information on computer databases.

Administrative assistants/administrators normally work a standard working week, Monday to Friday. There may be part-time and job share opportunities. The role is office based.

Salaries range from around £15,000 to over £25,000 a year.

Administrative assistants/administrators should:

• have good interpersonal and communication skills
• be able to work to tight deadlines
• be able to prioritise their workload
• have numeracy and IT skills
• have an interest in business and commerce.

Over 4.7 million people are employed within business, administration and governance in the UK. Jobs are available in all sectors and opportunities are widespread.

Competency in English and maths is essential, and employers may look for a post-16 qualification at Level 3 as a minimum. Work experience in an office environment is highly recommended. Young Apprenticeships, Apprenticeships and Advanced Apprenticeships in business and administration are available, as is the Diploma in business and administration. Many candidates continue their education post-16 taking vocational courses and qualifications in business and administration, including foundation degrees and degrees.

Training is usually on the job under the supervision of experienced colleagues. Some organisations provide in-house and external courses. There are NVQs in business and administration at Levels 1 to 5. Administrative assistants/administrators may choose to study for a foundation degree in business administration.

An administrative assistant's skills are highly transferable. Opportunities for progression include moving into supervisory or management roles or becoming a personal assistant. With further qualifications and training there are also opportunities to specialise, eg in finance, marketing or human resources and in areas such as law and medicine.

Further details