Receptionist/General Office Assistant

Receptionist/General Office AssistantThe National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) is a prestigious research and development organization that plays a vital role in the study of the universe. Associated Universities, Inc. (AUI) is a nonprofit organization that manages and operates the NRAO under a cooperative agreement with the National Science Foundation. 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.At NRAO we are seeking a Receptionist/General Office Assistant with a high level of professionalism to perform a variety of challenging administrative and clerical assignments, frequently handling confidential information. This position creates a positive first and last impression for the organization and is key for monitoring our visitors.This position will be based at our headquarters in Charlottesville, Virginia located on the grounds of the University of Virginia.What You Will Be Doing:Staffing the front desk during business hours of operation (8:30am-5pm, M-F)Greeting and monitoring visitorsMaintaining building security by following safety procedures and controlling building access via the reception desk (monitor visitor access log, issue visitor badges, etc.)Answering, handling, and directing incoming calls accordinglyResponding to visitor inquiries in a polite and timely mannerScheduling meetings and conferences via the Meeting Planner systemAssisting with internal meeting/event set-up and break-down as neededManaging the Observatory-wide events calendarOverseeing the staff vehicle registration logCoordinating facility use for non-NRAO (external) organizationsAssisting with various clerical duties as needed (e.g., filing, photocopying, invoicing, credit card reconciliation)Proactive compliance with NRAO and government safety policies and procedures in own work area is expectedAssisting with special projects as neededOther administrative duties as assignedWork Environment:Work is typically performed in an open office environment but may occasionally be required to be outdoors.While performing the duties of this job, the employee typically sits at a desk, uses a personal computer, telephone, photocopier, scanner, facsimile, and other standard office equipment.Who You Are:You have a high school diploma or GED or equivalent combination of education and experience.You have a minimum of one year of experience in a receptionist or administrative capacity.Competency Summary:Proficiency with personal computers including word processing and spreadsheet software (Microsoft Office Suite)Provides excellent customer service and comfortable interacting with the general public, groups, and individuals of all professional levelsKnowledge of standard office practices, procedures, various office equipment and administrative techniquesStrong attention to detailExcellent verbal and communication skills and ability to understand and follow oral and written instructionHighly organized, takes initiative, and performs work independently in the absence of specific instructionsMaintain accurate recordsAbility to be resourceful and proactive when issues arisePossesses a positive and professional attitudePhysical Requirements:Must be able to work at a computer terminal for extended periods of time and work effectively in an environment given multiple tasks and competing priorities. Must be able to handle, bend, stoop, 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. The employee frequently is required to communicate in person, by electronic mail, and by telephone.

Specific vision abilities required by this job 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.Total Rewards:Compensation:The starting salary/hourly rate of this position is between $14.00-$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 are 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.Click Total Rewards for more information.Application Instructions:Select the "Apply Now" button. Please be prepared to upload your current CV/Resume and a cover letter describing interest and suitability for the position.Equal Opportunity Employer Statement:AUI is an equal opportunity employer.

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