Education Development Center (EDC) is a global nonprofit that advances lasting solutions to improve education, promote health, and expand economic opportunity. Since 1958, we have been a leader in designing, implementing, and evaluating powerful and innovative programs in more than 80 countries around the world.

EDC promotes equity and access to high quality education and health services and products that contribute to thriving communities where people from diverse backgrounds learn, live, and work together. We support an inclusive workplace culture that embraces many perspectives and broadens our understanding of the communities we serve, enhancing and enriching our work.

EDC is committed to equity, diversity and inclusion in the workplace.

EDC’s office in Washington, D.C. has an opening for a Receptionist/Administrative Assistant, reporting to the Facilities and Security Coordinator. The office is home to approximately 30 educational projects, focusing on international basic education, youth and workforce development, health and early childhood development.  The office is located in Georgetown, Washington, D.C.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS - The person in this position is expected to communicate clearly and courteously; to develop and maintain positive relationships with clients, consultants, collaborators, co-workers, field sites, and funders; and to work respectfully with EDC colleagues. The job requires adherence to EDC policies & procedures.

Under close or direct supervision, the Receptionist/Administrative Assistant will:

• Assist with administrative tasks consistent with skills including:
  • keep track of petty cash forms through Excel
  • document preparation, photocopying, and electronic data handling
  • assist employees with expense reports and travel requests
  • process documents through EDC’s business units (HR, Facilities, Operations, etc.)
  • assist projects with special requests related to programmatic activities
  • file administrative documents
  • translate documents in English, French, Spanish or Arabic (consistent with skill level)
• Assist Facilities and Security Coordinator with tasks including:
  • order and stock kitchen and workroom supplies
  • coordinate monthly celebrations for the office
  • communicate facility requests and submit work orders
  • collect, obtain signatures, and submit invoices weekly
• Tidy reception area and workroom areas
  • maintain, clean and refill coffee machine daily
• Receive and route telephone calls from domestic and international callers
• Welcome and direct clients courteously and professionally
• Sign for and route courier packages to staff
• Process incoming mail to employee mailboxes
• Collect and submit weekly invoices to head office in Massachusetts; ensure invoices received adhere to compliance and protocols on signatures and deadlines.
• Serve as fire one of 4 fire wardens during fire drills and emergency situations
• Water plants
• Distribute parking passes, postage stamps, and phone lists as needed
• Learn to apply organizational terms, procedures, systems, and policies
• Effectively interact with diverse staff
• Engage teamwork; accepts feedback
• Adapt readily
• Seek help and support as needed

This position requires educational achievement; excellent writing skills; demonstrable initiative, creativity, and flexibility; ability to work independently and effectively in groups; and strong interpersonal & organizational skills. Specific requirements:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• At least 2 years customer service/front-desk experience.
• Be punctual and dependable.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Cheerful and pleasant manner at all times.
• Great interpersonal skills.
• Good computer skills.
• Good organizational skills.
• Ability to prioritize work.
• Excellent English required.  Foreign language ability in Spanish, French or Arabic is preferred.

EDC is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer committed to enhancing the diversity of its workforce and ensuring an equitable and highly inclusive work environment. EDC is a smoke-free workplace, and offers a supportive work environment, competitive salary, and excellent benefits. Women, minorities, individuals with disabilities and veterans are encouraged to apply.