Receptionist/General Office Assistant

Associated UniversitiesCHARLOTTESVILLE, VA
Onsite

About The Position

The National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO), managed by Associated Universities, Inc. (AUI), is a leading research and development organization in radio astronomy. This position is based at NRAO headquarters in Charlottesville, Virginia. The Receptionist/General Office Assistant will perform a variety of administrative and clerical tasks, handle confidential information, and create a positive first and last impression for the organization. This role is key for monitoring visitors and maintaining building security.

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
  • Proficiency with personal computers including word processing and spreadsheet software (Microsoft Office Suite)
  • Excellent customer service skills and comfort 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 communication skills
  • Ability to understand and follow oral and written instruction
  • Highly organized, takes initiative, and performs work independently
  • Ability to maintain accurate records
  • Resourceful and proactive when issues arise
  • Positive and professional attitude
  • Must be able to work at a computer terminal for extended periods
  • Must be able to handle, bend, stoop, lift, and reach in the maintenance of the office filing system
  • May occasionally drive a vehicle
  • Ability to 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
  • Must be authorized to work in the United States
  • Observatory presently cannot sponsor H-1B Visas for this position

Responsibilities

  • Staffing the front desk during business hours (8:30 am - 5 pm, M-F)
  • Greeting and monitoring visitors
  • Maintaining building security by following safety procedures and controlling building access
  • Answering, handling, and directing incoming calls
  • Responding to visitor inquiries
  • Scheduling meetings and conferences
  • Assisting with internal meeting/event set-up and break-down
  • Managing the Observatory-wide events calendar
  • Overseeing the staff vehicle registration log
  • Coordinating facility use for non-NRAO (external) organizations
  • Assisting with various clerical duties (e.g., filing, photocopying, invoicing, credit card reconciliation)
  • Proactive compliance with NRAO and government safety policies and procedures
  • Assisting with special projects
  • Other administrative duties as assigned

Benefits

  • 13 holidays
  • Annual accrual of up to 24 vacation days
  • Medical, dental and vision plans effective on the first day of employment
  • Retirement benefit: AUI contributes 10 percent of a qualified participant’s base pay with no required employee contribution
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