An operations support associate is someone who handles clerical duties for a company’s top executive. Operations support associates work in a wide range of industries and handle an array of tasks. They answer phones, forward messages, fax documents, respond to emails and greet customers and clients. These associates typically report solely to the person in charge of the company.

Basics

Operations support associates provide important links between top executives and their clients. They type letters written by their superiors and occasionally handle light bookkeeping duties. At times, they schedule appointments or return calls on behalf of the top executive. Operations support associates also might do everything from taking minutes at meetings to reminding their bosses of the day’s agenda.

Skills

Operation support associates typically need to be skilled typists and have a knowledge of computers and software needed for the job--such as those related to finances or scheduling. They should be professional, organized, courteous, adaptable and able to juggle many office tasks at the same time. They also need to be good listeners, following the instructions given by top executives. On top of those things, operation support associates likely need to possess basic math skills to help with collections or payroll.

Background

Operations support associates come from a variety of backgrounds and education levels. Most are able to learn on the job, but in order to become the assistant for a top executive, many need to have at least some experience as a secretary or receptionist in a related industry. Occasionally, an operations support associate will need to have obtained an associate or even bachelor’s degree, with an emphasis on courses in administration, keyboarding, business, math and English.

Prospects

Jobs for operations support associates are largely at the mercy of their industry. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs for executive secretaries and administrative assistants are expected to decrease by 8.9 percent during the 2018 to 2028 decade, which is less than the 6 percent average growth rate for all occupations. Nearly 600,000 workers were employed as executive secretaries in May 2020, the BLS reported.

Receptionists salary

• Top 10% Annual Salary: More than $45,150 ($21.71/hour)
• Median Annual Salary: $31,110 ($14.96/hour)
• Bottom 10% Annual Salary: Less than $22,030 ($10.59/hour)

Earnings

Wages for operations support associates differ by their industry, experience and overall responsibilities.