Receptionist/General Office Assistant

About the role

The National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) is a prestigious research and development organization that plays a vital role in the study of the universe. The Observatory is a hub for technological and scientific collaboration, operating state-of-the-art radio telescope facilities for use by the international scientific community. The Observatory has been instrumental in the study of black holes, galaxies, and the early universe.

Responsibilities

• Staff the front desk during business hours of operation (8:30 am–5:00 pm, Monday–Friday)
• Greet and monitor visitors
• Maintain building security by following safety procedures and controlling building access via the reception desk (monitor visitor access log, issue visitor badges, etc.)
• Answer, handle, and direct incoming calls accordingly
• Respond to visitor inquiries in a polite and timely manner
• Schedule meetings and conferences via the Meeting Planner system
• Assist with internal meeting/event set-up and break-down as needed
• Manage the Observatory-wide events calendar
• Oversee the staff vehicle registration log
• Coordinate facility use for non-NRAO (external) organizations
• Assist with various clerical duties as needed (e.g., filing, photocopying, invoicing, credit card reconciliation)
• Proactively comply with NRAO and government safety policies and procedures in own work area
• Assist with special projects as needed
• Perform other administrative duties as assigned

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED or equivalent combination of education and experience
• Minimum of one year of experience in a receptionist or administrative capacity

Qualifications

• Proficiency with personal computers including word processing and spreadsheet software (Microsoft Office Suite)
• Excellent customer service and comfortable interacting with the general public, groups, and individuals of all professional levels
• Knowledge of standard office practices, procedures, various office equipment and administrative techniques
• Strong attention to detail
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills and ability to understand and follow oral and written instruction
• Highly organized, takes initiative, and performs work independently in the absence of specific instructions
• Maintain accurate records
• Ability to be resourceful and proactive when issues arise
• Possesses a positive and professional attitude

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work at a computer terminal for extended periods of time and work effectively in an environment with multiple tasks and competing priorities
• Ability to handle, bend, stoop, lift, and reach in the maintenance of the office filing system
• May occasionally drive a vehicle, lift and/or move up to 50 pounds
• Frequent communication in person, by electronic mail, and by telephone
• Specific vision abilities required include close vision and ability to adjust focus

Additional Requirement

• Observatory employees must be authorized to work in the United States. The Observatory presently cannot sponsor H-1B Visas for this position.

Pay

The starting salary/hourly rate of this position is between $14.00 and $21.00 per hour. Factors which may affect starting pay within this range may include education, experience, skills, competencies, other qualifications of the successful candidate, as well as internal equity and labor market conditions.

Benefits

• Excellent paid time off (13 holidays, annual accrual of up to 24 vacation days)
• Medical, dental and vision plans effective on the first day of employment
• AUI’s retirement benefit contributes an amount equal to 10 percent of a qualified participant’s base pay with no required employee contribution