Receptionist
At the SKAO we are coordinating a global effort to deliver one of the largest science facilities on the planet. The SKAO telescopes will be next-generation instruments that will help to answer key questions in astrophysics, drive technological innovation and support human capital development.
More than a dozen partner countries and over a thousand scientists and engineers around the world are already on board, making the SKA project an international collaboration like no other, and one of the most ambitious science and engineering endeavours of the 21st century.
Headquartered in the UK, with telescope sites in Australia and South Africa, the SKAO will be one observatory operating two telescopes, an endeavour spanning three continents. Multinational by design, in early 2021 the SKAO became an intergovernmental organisation, one of only a select handful of science infrastructures to do so worldwide.
Our Global HQ is located near the buzzing city of Manchester at the historic Jodrell Bank Observatory, a UNESCO World Heritage site located in the Cheshire countryside. It is home to a rapidly expanding international team of more than a hundred, working in a highly collaborative and inclusive way, in coordination with SKAO teams in Australia and South Africa as part of a global astronomy and engineering community.
Being part of Team SKA means contributing to something extraordinary: a uniquely exciting project to advance human knowledge that will last for decades. In return, we offer a diverse multicultural working environment, 30 days annual leave plus public holidays, a generous pension scheme, visa and support with relocation (if applicable), regular social events, a family-friendly environment and much more. Come and join us!
An excellent opportunity for an experienced Receptionist to join a welcoming, international organisation with a diverse and multicultural workforce.
Job Location Cheshire, UK (Head Office)Reporting to the Administration Manager, the Receptionist plays a key role as the first point of contact at Head Office, managing day-to-day reception duties while providing administrative and organisational support across the organisation. The role also supports the Events Team in coordinating and delivering a variety of events hosted at Head Office.
This is a fantastic opportunity to join a leading international research organisation within a vibrant, multicultural environment. Working alongside colleagues from across the globe, the role offers exposure to a diverse, collaborative workplace that values innovation and inclusion.
The successful candidate will demonstrate a friendly and flexible approach, strong organisational skills, and the ability to communicate effectively with a wide range of internal and external stakeholders in a dynamic, globally connected setting.
The post is available to start immediately on a permanent contract. Working days will be alternate Wednesdays and each Thursday and Friday. This averages out at 17.5 hours per week over the year. The post holder must be willing to work on a full-time basis when needed to provide holiday cover.
We welcome applications from candidates of all nationalities, especially those from member countries. However, for
this role visa and relocation support will not be available and applicants must be able to comply with the terms of a
UK based local contract, details of which may be accessed on SKAO's recruitment portal.
Key Responsibilities, Accountabilities and Duties
Undertake general reception duties, including greeting and directing visitors.
Help with the organisation of events (reception and greeting, cloakroom, refreshments, general assistance).
Deal with enquiries from internal and external sources via email, telephone and letter.
Assist the Admin team in administrative and organisational activities.
Maintain and track reception-related expenses using the in-house expense system.
Monitor and maintain stationery supplies for Head Office, placing orders as needed.
Provide general administrative support to staff within the Head Office
Act as Fire Marshall and First Aid provider (appropriate training will be provided if necessary).
Support the maintenance of filing and documentation systems.
Maintain the communal areas book and magazine shelving.
Undertake any additional duties as deemed appropriate by the line manager.
The responsibilities outlined above are intended as a guide and are not exhaustive. The Receptionist will be required to demonstrate flexibility and adaptability in responding to the needs of the role.
Mandatory Knowledge, Skills and Experience
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills and/or experience required:
Experience in administration and reception work in a busy office environment.
Flexibility and initiative in meeting competing demands and working to deadlines.
A helpful and friendly manner.
Strong interpersonal, written and oral communication skills.
Competent IT skills, particularly with use of Microsoft Office.
Competent numeracy and literacy skills.
Desirable Knowledge, Skills and Experience
- Experience of working with an Enterprise Resource Planning system.
- Good typing speed with accuracy.
- Experience as Fire Marshall and/or First Aider.
Equality Diversity and Inclusion Statement
SKA Observatory recognises that our diversity is a strength. We aim to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where everyone feels they belong, and diverse perspectives and ideas thrive. As such, Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion are at the core of SKA Observatory’s agenda.
Our aim is to recruit and retain the most talented individuals, regardless of gender, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, marital status, religion, nationality or background.
Women have traditionally been under-represented in the fields of science and engineering; SKA Observatory welcomes and encourages female applicants.
Where applicants with a disability need facilities or adjustments to enable them to participate in the recruitment process, these will be provided.
SKA Observatory welcome all candidates, especially those from member countries.
The “How to Apply” information contained within the SKA Observatory recruitment portal provides more detail regarding our application and selection approach.
Apply for this jobSend to a Friend
