Administrative Assistant

Position Summary

The Administrative Assistant plays a vital role in supporting the daily operations of the New England Science & Sailing Foundation (NESS). This position provides administrative, clerical, and customer service support across the organization. The ideal candidate is organized, detail-oriented, proactive, and able to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment. Strong computer skills, database experience, and a commitment to providing exceptional customer service are essential. This customer-facing role assists with all office functions and program administration and support. This is a non-exempt, full-time, year-round position reporting to the Office Manager.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Communicate professionally and effectively with students, parents, customers, and staff.
• Partner with the Office Manager to support the daily operations and administrative functions of the office.
• Answer incoming phone calls, direct callers to appropriate staff members, and take accurate messages as needed.
• Welcome students, parents, and visitors, and respond to questions and inquiries promptly and courteously.
• Help maintain the front-end store and reception area to ensure a clean, organized, and welcoming environment.
• Supervise students ages 4–17 during lunch periods throughout the summer season.
• Maintain accurate student records and update information within registration and database systems.
• Prepare and distribute program rosters, reports, and other administrative documents.
• Enter survey results and vessel usage data into designated tracking systems.
• Monitor, respond to, and document VHF radio communications as required.
• Follow and support NESS Emergency Action Plan protocols and procedures.
• Demonstrate professionalism, sound judgment, and a positive attitude in all interactions.
• Perform additional duties and special projects as assigned.

Qualifications

• Previous experience in an office, customer service, educational, camp, or related environment required.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Experience working with databases and data management systems.
• Strong organizational, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
• Exceptional attention to detail and ability to manage multiple tasks effectively.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team-oriented environment.
• Commitment to delivering outstanding customer service.

Benefits

Comprehensive benefits package for full-time / year-round staff:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Optional 401(k) Retirement Plan with Company Match
• Generous Paid Time Off, Including Company Holidays
• Company-Paid Basic Life Insurance

The anticipated compensation range for this position is $20.00 - $22.00 per hour. Actual compensation will be determined based on factors including, but not limited to, experience, qualifications, skills, internal equity, and market considerations. In certain circumstances, compensation may fall outside of the posted range.

For 25 years, the New England Science & Sailing Foundation (NESS) has inspired confidence, curiosity, and connection through ocean-based experiential learning. Since 2002, NESS has served nearly 50,000 students through hands-on programs that combine marine science, sailing, adventure sports, and environmental stewardship. Guided by its Core Values of Experiential Learning, InclusiveNESS, Personal Growth, and Stewardship, NESS partners with schools, families, and communities throughout New England to help students of all ages build confidence, resilience, leadership skills, and a lifelong connection to the water.

NESS is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer