Becoming a reception and administrative officer: duties, skills and career prospects

Updated on 2026-10-31

What does the job involve?

The reception and administrative officer is the first person visitors and callers meet in an organisation. They welcome them, provide information and direct them, while also handling part of the everyday administrative work.

It is a job based on contact and organisation, accessible without a higher education degree. It suits people who are friendly, patient and versatile, enjoy helping others and like to see files move forward.

Day-to-day duties

In practice, the main duties are:

  • Welcoming visitors and callers in person and on the phone
  • Handling difficult situations at reception calmly and tactfully
  • Processing internal and external information flows: mail, emails, messages
  • Handling everyday administrative tasks
  • Processing files administratively
  • Dealing with everyday complaints
  • Filing and archiving documents

Skills and qualities sought

  • A welcoming, service-minded attitude
  • Good spoken and written French
  • Computer skills and command of office tools
  • Patience, self-control and stress management
  • Organisation and the ability to multitask

Where can you work?

Almost every organisation needs a reception and administrative support. You can work:

  • in a company, whatever its sector
  • in a government department, town hall or public body
  • in an association, an educational or healthcare establishment
  • in an estate agency, a hotel or a service company

Career progression and further studies

The Reception and Administrative Officer professional qualification is at level 4, equivalent to the French baccalauréat. It is a good gateway into administrative careers:

  • Administrative secretary or receptionist
  • With experience: executive assistant or administrative manager
  • Possible specialisation in human resources or accounting

Salary

There is no single salary for this job: pay depends on your experience, the size of the company, the region and the applicable collective agreement. For reliable, up-to-date benchmarks, check the corresponding job sheets: France Travail job sheet (ROME M1607), France Travail job sheet (ROME M1602) and France Travail job sheet (ROME M1601).

Train with Assistant Academy

Assistant Academy prepares you for the Reception and Administrative Officer professional qualification (level 4, equivalent to the French baccalauréat), a certification recognised by the French State. The programme lasts 400 hours and can be followed remotely, in enhanced remote mode or on site at our premises in Gennevilliers. The course is eligible for CPF funding (France's personal training account).

Still hesitating, or want to check that this job is right for you? We are here to support you in your plans.

  • Discover the Reception and Administrative Officer programme
  • Take the career guidance quiz
  • Book an appointment with an adviser