Administrative officers (NOC 1221)

Administrative officers review, oversee and carry out the office procedures involved in running a business or organization. This group includes administrative officers who are supervisors

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In general, administrative officers:

• Oversee and co-ordinate office administrative procedures and policies
• Test and carry out new procedures
• Set work priorities and delegate work to office support staff
• Make sure deadlines are met and procedures are followed
• Plan and manage events
• Co-ordinate meetings for leadership teams, staff updates and team-building exercises
• Advise staff, stakeholders and partners on office procedures
• Analyze and oversee budgeting, contracting, project planning and management processes
• Help prepare the operating budget and maintain inventory and budgetary controls
• Collect data and prepare reports, manuals and correspondence
• Provide administrative support—such as typing forms and responding to general inquiries
• Organize office space

Administrative officers also co-ordinate and act as the main contact for travel accommodations, relocations, equipment, supplies, forms, parking, maintenance and security services for the office.

They may also perform industry-specific activities, such as post-secondary admission.

Administrative officers work in a wide variety of public and private industries and services. Hours are generally Monday to Friday, unless there are events or off-site meetings.

Administrative officers work in many different types of offices and work environments. In some offices, they may not have an assigned desk or workspace. Some may be able to work from home.

They are often interrupted in their work with requests from staff, management and the public. They are also expected to manage many projects at the same time, and often work in busy, noisy offices.

As offices rely more on technology and services are shared among departments, not as many administrative staff may be needed. However, administrative officers are used in a broad range of industries so demand for these positions will likely to continue as people retire.

Although employers may favour higher education and credentials when hiring an administrative officer, they also consider an individual’s personality and how well suited they are to the role.