Executive Secretaries and Executive Administrative Assistants

Provide high-level administrative support by conducting research, preparing statistical reports, and handling information requests, as well as performing routine administrative functions such as preparing correspondence, receiving visitors, arranging conference calls, and scheduling meetings. May also train and supervise lower-level clerical staff.

SOC: 43-6011.00

Common Job Titles

  • Administrative Assistant
  • Administrative Secretary
  • Executive Assistant
  • Executive Secretary

What You'll Need to Succeed

AI-generated

Key competencies for this occupation at a glance

  • KnowledgeOrganize executive-level meetings, conference calls, and complex scheduling across multiple stakeholders using calendar management systems while balancing competing priorities and time constraints.
  • KnowledgePrepare statistical reports and research summaries by synthesizing information from multiple sources to support executive decision-making.
  • KnowledgeEvaluate information requests for relevance, urgency, and appropriate routing while maintaining confidentiality and organizational protocols.
  • MindsetIntegrate interpersonal relationships with internal and external stakeholders by demonstrating discretion, professionalism, and service orientation in all interactions.
  • MindsetBalance competing demands from multiple executives and departments while maintaining composure and prioritizing effectively under pressure.
  • KnowledgeCoordinate administrative workflows and clerical activities across teams to ensure seamless operations and timely deliverables.
  • KnowledgeCompose professional correspondence, meeting minutes, and business documents applying advanced writing skills and proper formatting conventions.
  • KnowledgeApply office productivity software including Microsoft Office Suite and collaboration platforms to create professional correspondence, presentations, and documentation independently.
  • MindsetEngage with executives, visitors, and team members through active listening and responsive communication to anticipate needs and resolve concerns.
  • KnowledgeApply training and supervisory techniques to develop lower-level clerical staff and ensure quality standards.
  • KnowledgeAnalyze administrative processes and office systems to identify inefficiencies and recommend improvements to workflows.
  • Hands-onOperate multi-line telephone systems, videoconferencing equipment, and office technology efficiently to facilitate communication and virtual collaboration.

Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics

Annual wage data for Executive Secretaries and Executive Administrative Assistants (2024)

Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)

472,770

Wage Distribution by Percentile

Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $48,300. 25th percentile: U.S. $60,000. 50th percentile: U.S. $74,260. 75th percentile: U.S. $90,440. 90th percentile: U.S. $107,710. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.

  • U.S.
MetricU.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less$48,300
10% of workers earn the following or more$107,710
Workers on average earn$77,060

+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)

Skills & Requirements

Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance

  • Administrative4.5/5
  • English Language4.2/5
  • Customer and Personal Service3.5/5
  • Computers and Electronics3.3/5
  • Administration and Management3.2/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge

Tools & Technology

Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation

In-Demand Technology

Frequently requested by employers in job postings

  • Adobe Acrobat
  • Adobe Illustrator
  • Adobe InDesign
  • Adobe Photoshop
  • Apple macOS
  • Cisco Webex
  • Facebook
  • Google Docs
  • Google Workspace software
  • Intuit QuickBooks
  • Microsoft Access
  • Microsoft Dynamics
  • Microsoft Excel
  • Microsoft Office software
  • Microsoft Outlook
  • Microsoft PowerPoint
  • Microsoft Project
  • Microsoft SharePoint
  • Microsoft Team Foundation Server
  • Microsoft Visio
  • Microsoft Word
  • Oracle PeopleSoft
  • Oracle Primavera Enterprise Project Portfolio Management
  • SAP Concur
  • SAP software
  • Slack
  • Zoom

Technology Skills

  • Accounting software
  • Adobe Contribute
  • Aestiva Purchase Order
  • Airtable
  • Apple Keynote
  • Appointment scheduling software
  • Blackbaud The Raiser's Edge
  • Calendar and scheduling software
Tools & Technology: Technology Skills

Tools & Equipment

  • 10-key calculators
  • Data input scanners
  • Desktop computers
  • Dictation equipment
  • Digital cameras
  • Electric typewriters
  • Handheld calculators
  • Handheld computers
Tools & Technology: Tools & Equipment