Receptionists
Description OES Code: 55305
Answer inquiries and obtain information for general public (e.g., customers, visitors, and other interested parties). Provide information regarding activities conducted at establishment; location of departments, offices, and employees within organization; or services in a hotel. May perform other clerical duties as assigned. Exclude Receptionists who operate switchboards.

Wages, California
Entry-Level Hourly Wage $7.86
25th Percentile $8.79
50th Percentile $10.84
75th Percentile $13.50

Wages, San Joaquin County
Entry-Level Hourly Wage $7.10
25th Percentile $7.93
50th Percentile $9.74
75th Percentile $11.58

Wages by California County
• OES Survey
• CCOIS Survey

Hours & Benefits
Most Receptionists work 40 hours weekly, Monday through Friday. Some work a 33- to 35-hour week; others may work irregular hours and on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays. Overtime work is not common.

Fringe benefits vary from one establishment to another. Most companies and all government agencies offer paid sick leave, vacation, holidays, retirement plans, and medical and dental benefits. Some employers provide life insurance and vision care plans.

Employment Trends, California
Employment 1998 159,800
Projected Employment 2008 211,400
Percent Change 1998-2008 32.3%
Separations 1998-2008 35,500

Employment Trends, San Joaquin County
Employment 1999 2,050
Projected Employment 2006 2,410
Percent Change 1999-2006 17.6%
Separations 1999-2006 300

Employment Trends by California County

Working Conditions
Receptionists usually work in clean, well lit, air-conditioned and heated places. Some offices have nice furnishings. These nice working conditions make the job enjoyable and desirable. Receptionists have to do many jobs at the same time and also deal with a lot of interruptions and breakdown of equipment. The work is usually not physically hard, but sometimes they have to lift heavy boxes or other supplies which requires stooping and bending.

Advancement
Promotional opportunities for Receptionists are often limited. With additional training and experience, they can advance to typist, secretary, or administrative assistant. Receptionists in dental or medical facilities can sometimes learn the duties of dental or medical assistant and move into these positions. Larger employers may offer more promotional opportunities.

Getting the Job & Other Information
Job Service offices of the California Employment Development Department are excellent places to start looking for a job. Persons interested in government employment should apply at federal, state, city and county personnel offices. Many schools operate placement centers for their graduates. Jobs may be found through registration with temporary employment agencies, direct contact with employers and through classified advertisements in newspapers and trade publications.

For a list of current job listings, browse CalJOBS or America's Job Bank.

Education and Training
Employers prefer applicants with at least a high school diploma. Many schools and colleges offer training in the skills required for clerical occupations. Some schools give certificates or diplomas to those who satisfactorily complete training programs. Students can sometimes gain experience by working part time as office Receptionists or Information Clerks. Cooperative work-study programs in high schools and community colleges provide excellent opportunities that may lead to full time jobs after graduation. Students should contact their school counselors to inquire about such programs.

Receptionists and Information Clerks are given on-the-job training by employers regardless of educational preparation, because each business has its own policies and procedures to be followed in reception and clerical operations. Job training can last a few hours, days, or weeks.

Skills & Other Requirements
Applicants should be able to type 40 or more words per minute accurately, and be able to operate calculators, computers, and duplicating machines. Applicants need a pleasant personality and the ability to work well with others. A well-groomed, business-like appearance, clear speaking voice and good judgment are important. Receptionists and Information Clerks should be able to work independently and under pressure, and have good public contact skills and legible handwriting. Familiarity with word processors or personal computers is now almost always a job requirement. Normal or corrected hearing is essential.

Skills & Other Requirements
California Occupationa Guide: #21

Related Occupations: Secretaries, General Office Clerk

Training: California Training and Education Providers (CTEP)