Local Government Administrative Assistant

Job Description:

Local government administrative assistants provide office support in council departments and give information to the public.

Job Category:

Government & Public Services

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What you will do:

In your day-to-day duties you could:

answer enquiries over the phone, online, in writing or in person
look up information on a computer
file, scan and photocopy documents
write letters and reports
work with databases and spreadsheets
deal with cash and payments
update records
act as a secretary or personal assistant (PA) to a manager

Skills:

You’ll need:

to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

As well as:

administration skills
customer service skills
to be thorough and pay attention to detail
the ability to work well with others (teamwork skills)
the ability to work on your own (drive)
sensitivity and understanding
to be flexible and open to change (adaptability skills)
excellent verbal communication skills

Illustration of employee looking at workspace

Entry Requirements:

To become a Local Government Administrative Assistant, you don’t typically need specific GCSE (or equivalent) subjects, but there are general skills and qualifications that can be beneficial for this role. Local Government Administrative Assistants perform a wide range of administrative and clerical tasks to support the functioning of local government offices. Here are some relevant subjects and skills:

English: Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, are essential for administrative work, including writing emails, reports, and handling correspondence.
Mathematics: Basic math skills are important for tasks like budget tracking, financial record keeping, and data analysis.
IT and Computer Skills: Proficiency in using office software like Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and email is crucial for administrative work.
Business Studies: Subjects related to business, administration, or office management can provide a foundational understanding of administrative processes and practices.
Public Administration or Politics (if available): While not common, coursework in public administration or politics can offer insights into how local governments operate.

Post School

You can get into this job through:

a college course
an apprenticeship
applying directly

College

You could take a college course to learn some of the skills and knowledge needed in this job.

In the UK, for example, courses include:

Certificate in the Principles of Business Administration
Diploma in Business Administration

Apprenticeship

You could do an apprenticeship to get into this job, such as:

business and administration intermediate or advanced apprenticeship
public service operational delivery officer advanced apprenticeship

Direct Application

You could apply directly to become a local government administrative assistant.

Understanding common computer software packages and experience of working in customer service could give you an advantage.

As part of the application process you could be tested for your communication, IT and number skills.

Working Hours and Environment:

A typical week consists of 37-39 hours of work. You could be required to work between 8am and 6pm.

You could work in an office.

Career Path & Progression:

With experience, you could progress to admin officer, office manager or jobs in other local authority departments.

You could also move into administrative work in other sectors.

Local Government Administrative Assistant