Explore This Path
Administrative Assistant
π° Earn $45K-$63K
π High School Diploma or GED
β±οΈ 6β12 Month Training
π -1.6% Job Growth
- Ideal for those who love organizing and multitasking in dynamic environments.
- Support business operations by ensuring smooth communication and efficient scheduling.
- Be the friendly face and voice that connects people and information seamlessly.

What Administrative Assistants DoPerform routine administrative functions such as drafting correspondence, scheduling appointments, organizing and maintaining paper and electronic files, or providing information to callers.
- Answer telephones and give information to callers, take messages, or transfer calls to appropriate individuals.
- Greet visitors or callers and handle their inquiries or direct them to the appropriate persons according to their needs.
- Create, maintain, and enter information into databases.
- Use computers for various applications, such as database management or word processing.
- Operate office equipment, such as fax machines, copiers, or phone systems and arrange for repairs when equipment malfunctions.
Administrative Assistants Education, Salary, and GrowthOnly you can decide how much you need to earn β but knowing what it actually costs to live in your area can help. The Family Budget Calculator can guide you.
Minimum EducationHigh School Diploma or GED
Career ProspectsShaky (Decreasing by 1-5%)
Training Time6 months to 1 year
Job Openings202,800 Annually
Median Earnings
$53,190 in California
$46,290 Nationally
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Real Talk Reel
We've curated a playlist for you to get a glimpse into a day in the life of this career.
Is This Career Right For You?
YOU Like
- Influencing or leading others
- Using data or completing tasks
you value
- Having support
- Job security
- Personal relationships
you are skilled in
- Operation and Control
- Operations Monitoring
- Monitoring
- Critical Thinking
- Active Listening
- Judgment and Decision Making
Go Deeper: Administrative Assistants Explained

Administrative AssistantExplore career pathways, key skills, and what each role has to offer.
How Do You Train for This Career?
Learn about the education and training paths that can lead to this career β and what to expect from each one.

Associate's DegreeAn associate's degree typically provides graduates with foundational knowledge and skills for entry-level jobs in the graduate's industry, or serves as a stepping stone towards further education.
π College
β±οΈ Finish in 2-3 years

Bachelor's DegreeA bachelor's degree typically results in increased knowledge about a variety of academic subjects, specialized knowledge in a focused field of study, and is considered the foundational qualification for many careers.
π College
β±οΈ Finish in 4-5+ years

Vocational SchoolA vocational school typically equips students with specialized skills and practical training in specific trades or occupations, enhancing their employability and providing direct pathways to relevant careers.
π Skills-Focused
β±οΈ Finish in 6 months - 2 years

Technology BootcampA technology bootcamp typically offers intensive training in specific tech skills, preparing participants for entry-level roles in the tech industry in a relatively short period of time.
π Skills-Focused
β±οΈ Finish in Less than a year

Workforce Development ProgramA workforce development program typically enhances participants' opportunities to succeed in the workforce through employment skill-building, career counseling, connections to employers, and pathways to high-demand and high-wage jobs.
π Skills-Focused
β±οΈ Finish in 6 months - 2 years

ApprenticeshipAn apprenticeship typically offers a combination of hands-on training and classroom instruction, leading to practical skills, industry-specific knowledge, and the potential for long-term employment in a specific trade or profession.
π Paid Work
β±οΈ Finish in 2-5 years

Professional UpskillingProfessional upskilling typically results in acquiring new or enhanced skills and knowledge relevant to a participant's current job or desired career path, leading to improved job performance, opportunities for career advancement, and greater employability.
π Skills-Focused
β±οΈ Finish in 1 week - 3 months

Fellowship or Service ProgramA fellowship or service program typically provides individuals with opportunities to engage in meaningful community service or social impact work, while encouraging personal growth, developing leadership skills, and creating positive change in society.
π Paid Work
β±οΈ Finish in 1-3 years
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What Is the Administration & Sales Industry?

Administration & SalesThe primary activities of this group involve managing teams and projects, providing administrative support, and selling products or services.
Updated April 2026. Data sourced from O*NET and Bureau of Labor Statistics.
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