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Featured Administrative Professional Job Description:  Pharmaceutical - Biotechnology


 

Current job title:  Sr. Administrative Assistant I

 

Industry:  Biotechnology/Pharmaceutical Manufacturing

 

Department:  Administration - Manufacturing

 

Years worked in this industry:  4

 

Years worked in this department:  2

 

Special training or attributes needed or helpful to get job in this industry (or specific department): 

Excellent calendaring, administrative skills, and Lotus Notes experience. MS Office (Excel, Word, Power Point) skills.

 

Previously worked as a recruiter in the tech industry, and prior to that was a real estate broker for 15 years in multiple states.

 

Number of managers and/or staff supported:  1 VP, 2 Associate Directors, 1 Director, (indirectly assist several managers and their departments)

 

Typical work hours:  7:30 - 5:30 (normal operating hours are from 8:30-5:00---however, I tend to get here when my boss does and leave when he does or later)

 

Weekends or overtime hours:  I work approximately four hours of overtime a week and do get time and a half for it. Do not work on the weekends.

 

General salary range (Note: This is a general figure or range provided by survey respondent and may NOT be an exact salary in order to give survey respondent some privacy. Also you must take into account that the number of years worked in industry/department may contribute to this salary as well as criteria such as level of position and person reports to, required hours and geographical location.):  approx. $45,000

 

Benefits (direct or indirect):  We have a 401K, ESPP, 529 Plan available, dental benefits & medical. We also participate in a yearly bonus plan which included a stock distribution also. We also have site functions, such as picnics, ice cream socials, etc.

 

Lingo you might hear in this industry:  In the biotech industry we recognize a "bell ringing". This is a significant milestone in regards to our products.

 

A typical day on the job:  65% of my day is spent taking care of calendar issues, such as scheduling and rescheduling meetings, attending meetings, taking and transcribing minutes, organizing site metrics, answering emails, responding to requests regarding copies, etc. Picking up the mail, making travel arrangements, ordering office supplies, etc.

 

Positive things about being an administrative professional in this industry:  The most positive fact about being an administrative professional is the ability to make my boss's day easier for him, and running smooth. Taking the menial tasks away from him, so that he can concentrate on more important issues at hand.

 

Negative things about being an administrative professional in this industry:  Trying to help everyone. Sometimes when your good at your job, other folks know it, and want your help also. Saying "no" is very hard.

 

Type of workspace/office:  Cubicle

 

Primary responsibilities as an administrative professional in this position: 

1. Calendaring

2. Meeting Planning

3. Travel Arrangements

4. Copying/Faxing/Scanning

5. Comminication through emails, etc.

 

Top thing(s) incumbent admin would require of job applicants seeking to be her/his position replacement:  Ability to identify and resolve problems/issues through communication, teamwork, and dedication.

 

Office machines or equipment operated regularly:  Computer, Printer, Scanner, Fax

 

Technology (hard) skills used regularly: 

Extensive knowledge of Lotus Notes, MS Excel, Power Point, & Word

 

 

Critical soft skills:  Good attitude, teamwork, collaboration skills, communication, flexibility. There are only about  four admins that take care of 750 employees, so you definitely need to be a team player and work with everyone. Having a good attitude with the folks that you support - smiling through all issues is important- "a positive can-do attitude"!

 

Pace of this position:  Average

 

Geographical region:  Southeast


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