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
Karen Porter, The Administrative Professional Job Performance and Career Success Coach™