A Career Guide to Administrator Jobs 

Administration mightn’t sound like the most exciting job sector, but if you enjoy being organised, then it could make for a very satisfying career option. Furthermore, working as an administrator can be very varied and challenging, with a huge range of duties, such as:  

• Dealing with correspondence  
• Organising calendars and events 
• Dealing with paperwork, filing and office systems  
• Taking calls/dealing with emails  
• Scheduling meetings and taking minutes 
• Managing business/office supplies

Admin opportunities exist in every industry sector 

Admin jobs exist in every type of organisation and business. Typically, admin roles are created to handle general clerical work, but can be more specialised due to specific organisational needs. Many such roles exist in the NHS and education.  

Administrators often act as the first point of contact between clients, business partners and customers/end users, so good communication skills are essential in these roles. Much of this communication will be written, whether using a PC or on paper, so an excellent grasp of English, spelling and grammar is essential.  

Given the variety of jobs you may be required to perform, administrators need to be self-starters, well-organised, able to problem solve, flexible and able to work under their own initiative. In addition, a familiarity with technology and office equipment could be beneficial when it comes to securing many admin jobs. Basic bookkeeping/spreadsheet skills is also highly sought-after in some roles.  

Qualifications aren’t necessary, but could help 

While you don’t need qualifications to get started in administration, a recognised qualification will give you an advantage in a competitive contest – you’ll also become suitable for a wider range of admin roles. Most hirers will expect candidates to have good GCSE results, especially in English and Maths. Basic secretarial skills, a good typing speed and a knowledge of office software such as Microsoft Word, Outlook and PowerPoint, as well as spreadsheet and desktop publishing applications will all be useful. 

The City & Guilds Group provides NVQ’s in administration. Acquiring a Diploma in Office Admin and Reception (Level 3) is a good way of demonstrating that you are committed to a career in administration. After that, you could go on to do a Level 4 Diploma in Office Administration. Many of these qualifications are offered through The Open University for flexible learning while working. 

How much can you earn? 

Starting salaries for entry level office and admin jobs tend to be low, averaging just £18,262, but, as an administrator your experience and earning potential should grow quickly. You may find that the longer you stay with an organisation, your role will expand and become more vital to the firm. As a result, your salary will improve. Opportunities for progression can be good too. Experienced administrators occupy key roles in certain companies and attract good salaries in senior positions within public sector organisations such as the NHS and government bodies.   

To find your first role as an administrator, or a better paying administrator roles as a more experienced candidate, start with a job search on Zoek UK.