Executive Secretaries and Executive Administrative Assistants
Executive secretaries and executive administrative assistants provide high-level administrative support to senior managers and executives. They handle research, prepare reports, manage correspondence, schedule meetings, arrange conference calls, and coordinate visitor logistics. This work occurs primarily in corporate offices, government agencies, and other organizations with executive-level staff.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against executive secretaries and executive administrative assistants and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves preparing statistical reports and research summaries for executives, scheduling and coordinating meetings and conference calls, drafting and editing correspondence, managing information requests, and greeting and directing visitors. These professionals may train other administrative staff, maintain filing systems, coordinate travel arrangements, and handle multiple projects simultaneously while managing shifting priorities and deadlines.
Who this work suits
Holland code CES. Conventional work is organized, detail-oriented work with clear procedures. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You tend to excel in this role if you prefer structured, rule-based work environments and enjoy organizing information systematically. You likely have strong interest in business operations, managing details efficiently, and supporting organizational leadership—combining conventional precision with enterprising drive to contribute to business success.
What it takes
Preparation: Medium preparation (vocational training, an associate degree, or related experience). Most people in this occupation hold an associate degree.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Who is hiring
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| District of Columbia | $77,990 | $90,850 | $102,310 | 4,560 |
| New Jersey | $74,840 | $89,520 | $103,290 | 11,690 |
| California | $72,110 | $89,000 | $107,090 | 59,640 |
| Massachusetts | $69,560 | $82,650 | $100,170 | 14,820 |
| Connecticut | $69,570 | $82,520 | $101,060 | 6,490 |
| Hawaii | $66,150 | $80,710 | $97,890 | 1,440 |
| New York | $68,470 | $80,640 | $100,400 | 88,890 |
| Virginia | $63,480 | $80,330 | $98,770 | 10,360 |
| Washington | $72,670 | $79,250 | $90,570 | 11,560 |
| Delaware | $64,160 | $78,920 | $92,550 | 1,320 |
| Maryland | $64,470 | $78,540 | $94,000 | 13,960 |
| Minnesota | $64,810 | $78,470 | $91,540 | 7,970 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Administrative Assistant (PA) — NOCTI
- Administrative Assisting — NOCTI
- Certified Administrative Professional (CAP) — International Association of Administrative Professionals
- Professional Administrative Certification of Excellence (PACE) — American Society of Administrative Professionals
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against executive secretaries and executive administrative assistants and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 43-6011.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.