Administrative Assistant
What do Administrative Assistants do?
Administrative Assistants are the unseen heroes of the nuclear industry. Vital members of any organisation, administrators provide essential support to ensure smooth day-to-day operations – whether in the office or out on site. No day is the same because the role involves a diverse range of tasks, including office management, communication and coordination, all to facilitate the efficient functioning of the workplace.
Typical duties and responsibilities of an Administrative Assistant
- Office Management: Maintain a well-organised and efficient office environment, including supplies, equipment and the facility.
- Communication: Write documents and handle incoming calls, emails and enquiries, directing them to the appropriate personnel..
- Record Keeping: Accurately input data into databases and maintain organised records, retrieving and updating this as required.
- Schedule Management: Arranging meetings, room bookings and travel, to optimise the use of time.
Skills and knowledge required to be an Administrative Assistant
- Interpersonal Skills: Excellence in oral and written communication is essential - to both technical and non-technical individuals; professional and polite interaction with internal and external stakeholders should be maintained at all times.
- Computer Proficiency: Using standard and specialist software, whilst troubleshooting minor IT issues.
- Organisational Skills: An ability to maintain oversight and records for multiple tasks, whilst maintaining a high level of attention to detail.
- Adaptability & Resilience: An ability to thrive in a dynamic fast-paced work environment, handling unexpected tasks or changes in priorities.
- Confidentiality: Maintain confidentiality in handling sensitive information and documents, in line with security requirements.
How do I become an Administrative Assistant?
Working towards the role
You may wish to consider joining a company directl, via an internship or entry-level position. Gain experience in the role and complete further training on the job. If you have already started out within an internship or entry-level position, demonstrating your competency and gaining experience will be incredibly valuable. Consider transferable skills, build your network to seek mentoring from experienced colleagues, look out for development opportunities, and pursue professional certifications.
Apprenticeship
If you would prefer to earn whilst you learn, why not consider completing an engineering apprenticeship? This can help you to get those essential technical knowledge and skills at the same time as building up valuable experience. Get started out in the industry and, whilst it may not allow you to jump straight into a senior role, it’s possible to start out as an Assistant Engineer and continue to develop. This pathway is likely to aid swift career progression toward a more senior or managerial role.
Academic Route
Pursuing a college course or university degree in english language, communication or related fields can help propel you into a role within Administration, though it is not a pre-requisite. A degree often takes 3 years, and may include an opportunity to gain experience in industry.
