IRC is Hiring Administrative / Office Assistant Job – Earn $19.50–$21.50 Per Hour

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If you are seeking a meaningful career in the humanitarian sector while building strong administrative and professional skills, the Administrative / Office Assistant position at the International Rescue Committee (IRC) could be the ideal opportunity. This full-time position is based in Richmond, offering the chance to work with one of the world’s leading humanitarian organizations dedicated to supporting individuals affected by crises.
Working with the IRC means becoming part of a global movement committed to restoring safety, dignity, and hope to communities impacted by war, conflict, and disasters. The organization is well known for providing essential services that help vulnerable populations rebuild their lives and strengthen their futures.
This article provides a detailed overview of the Administrative / Office Assistant role, including responsibilities, requirements, salary, benefits, and why working with IRC can be a rewarding career choice.
About the International Rescue Committee
The International Rescue Committee is a globally recognized humanitarian organization founded in 1933 at the call of Albert Einstein. The organization was established to support people fleeing persecution and violence, and over the decades it has grown into one of the most respected humanitarian institutions in the world.
Today, the IRC operates in more than 40 countries and 29 cities across the United States, delivering programs that help individuals and families survive crises and rebuild their lives. The organization works in areas such as healthcare, education, economic development, safety, and community empowerment.
By focusing on long-term solutions rather than short-term relief, the IRC ensures that communities can regain control over their futures and create sustainable opportunities for growth and stability.
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Job Overview
The Administrative / Office Assistant plays an essential role in ensuring the smooth operation of the IRC office in Richmond. This position combines front-desk reception duties with administrative and operational support.
Because the role serves as the first point of contact for clients, visitors, and phone calls, professionalism and strong communication skills are extremely important. The assistant must ensure that visitors are welcomed, inquiries are addressed, and office operations run efficiently.
This is an in-person role, meaning the selected candidate will be responsible for opening and closing the office each day and maintaining a professional and welcoming environment.
Key Job Details
- Position: Administrative / Office Assistant
- Organization: International Rescue Committee
- Location: Richmond
- Employment Type: Full-time
- Work Mode: In-person
- Working Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Salary Range: $19.50 – $21.50 per hour
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Major Responsibilities
The Administrative / Office Assistant handles a wide range of tasks that support daily office operations and improve service delivery to IRC clients.
Reception and Visitor Assistance
One of the primary duties is managing the reception area. The assistant will:
- Welcome visitors and clients arriving at the office
- Identify their needs and direct them to the appropriate department or staff member
- Answer general questions about services
- Manage the flow of visitors during busy periods
This role requires patience, professionalism, and the ability to interact with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds.
Telephone and Communication Management
The Administrative Assistant is also responsible for managing incoming phone calls and communication. Tasks include:
- Answering calls for the Richmond office
- Transferring calls to the appropriate departments
- Taking and delivering messages to staff members
- Responding to basic inquiries from clients or partners
Efficient communication helps maintain smooth coordination between staff and external stakeholders.
Office Supplies and Equipment Management
Keeping the office well organized and operational is another key responsibility. The assistant will:
- Order and manage office supplies
- Monitor inventory levels and restock items when necessary
- Maintain office equipment such as printers, scanners, projectors, and copiers
- Arrange maintenance or repairs when equipment issues arise
These tasks ensure that staff have the tools they need to perform their work effectively.
Internship Support and Coordination
The Administrative / Office Assistant also contributes to managing the office’s internship program. Responsibilities may include:
- Reviewing intern applications
- Conducting interviews with potential candidates
- Recommending applicants to the Operations Coordinator
- Supporting onboarding and training for interns
This responsibility helps strengthen the organization by bringing in motivated young professionals.
Client Support and Transportation Assistance
The assistant may also support client services by distributing transportation assistance such as:
- Bus passes
- Travel vouchers
Accurate record keeping is essential to ensure fair distribution and proper inventory management.
Administrative and IT Support
Additional duties involve assisting with office systems and administrative tasks. These may include:
- Maintaining staff identification badges and office photo lists
- Supporting basic IT issues and system equipment
- Updating voicemail and telephone extensions for staff
- Ensuring new employees receive office keys, ID cards, and access credentials
These responsibilities help maintain an organized and secure office environment.
Mail and Documentation Handling
Another important duty is managing the office mail system. The Administrative Assistant will:
- Receive and distribute incoming mail
- Prepare outgoing mail for delivery
- Ensure daily mail processing is completed on time
Efficient document handling ensures that communication between departments and external partners remains smooth.
Education Requirements
To qualify for this position, applicants must meet the following educational criteria:
- High school diploma (required)
- Some university education (preferred)
While a university degree is not mandatory, additional academic training may strengthen an applicant’s profile.
Skills and Competencies
The ideal candidate should possess a combination of administrative expertise and interpersonal skills. Important competencies include:
- Strong verbal and written communication skills in English
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office tools such as Excel, Word, and Outlook
- Excellent organizational and multitasking abilities
- Attention to detail and reliability
- Flexibility and professionalism in a busy office environment
- Ability to work collaboratively within a multicultural team
Additional language skills can be an advantage when interacting with diverse communities served by the IRC.
Additional Requirements
Applicants should also meet the following requirements:
- A valid driver’s license
- Active vehicle insurance
- Access to reliable transportation
These conditions ensure that employees can reliably commute and support operational needs.
Salary and Compensation
The salary for the Administrative / Office Assistant position ranges from $19.50 to $21.50 per hour.
Actual compensation may vary depending on several factors, including:
- Candidate experience and qualifications
- Local labor market conditions
- Internal organizational equity
- Budget considerations
This competitive hourly rate reflects the importance of the role in supporting IRC operations.
Employee Benefits
Employees in the United States working for the International Rescue Committee receive a comprehensive benefits package designed to support their well-being.
These benefits include healthcare coverage, retirement savings options, and support services that help employees maintain work-life balance and personal well-being.
Why Work at the IRC?
Working with the IRC offers a unique opportunity to combine professional growth with meaningful humanitarian impact.
Purpose-Driven Work
Every role contributes to helping individuals and families recover from crises and rebuild their lives.
Global Reach
The IRC operates across dozens of countries, giving employees the opportunity to be part of a global humanitarian mission.
Diverse Workplace
Employees collaborate with colleagues from different cultures and professional backgrounds.
Professional Development
The organization encourages continuous learning and provides opportunities for career advancement.
Final Thoughts
The Administrative / Office Assistant role at the International Rescue Committee is an excellent opportunity for individuals who want to build administrative experience while contributing to a global humanitarian mission.
With competitive pay, strong benefits, and the chance to support life-changing programs, this position offers both professional development and meaningful impact.



