1

Desk Assistant Jobs in Countryside, IL (NOW HIRING)

Bring deficiency of information to the attention of the directors and staff members. - Track and update class inquiries log and correspondence with customers. - Assist in creating invoices ...

FRONT DESK

Palos Heights, IL · On-site

$21 - $24/hr

As a Medical Assistant, you will be preparing for each patient visit by preparing charts and pulling notes before their arrival, providing routine support alongside nurses and medical staff, and ...

FRONT DESK

Palos Heights, IL · On-site

$21 - $24/hr

As a Medical Assistant, you will be preparing for each patient visit by preparing charts and pulling notes before their arrival, providing routine support alongside nurses and medical staff, and ...

FRONT DESK

Palos Heights, IL · On-site

$21 - $24/hr

As a Medical Assistant, you will be preparing for each patient visit by preparing charts and pulling notes before their arrival, providing routine support alongside nurses and medical staff, and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Desk Assistant information

See Countryside, IL salary details

$10

$20

$32

How much do desk assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for desk assistant in Countryside, IL is $20.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.16 and $22.60 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much is an office assistant's salary?

The salary for a desk assistant or office assistant typically ranges from $25,000 to $40,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the specific employer. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced assistants or those in larger organizations can earn higher wages, often with additional benefits such as health insurance and paid time off.

Is being an EA a stressful job?

A desk assistant role typically involves managing administrative tasks, coordinating schedules, and handling communication, which can be demanding during busy periods. The level of stress depends on workload, environment, and organizational support, but strong organizational skills and time management can help mitigate stress levels.

What is the difference between Desk Assistant vs Receptionist?

AspectDesk AssistantReceptionist
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require basic computer skillsHigh school diploma; customer service skills often preferred
Work EnvironmentOffice, hospital, school, or hotel front deskFront desk, office reception, hotel lobby, healthcare facilities
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions, healthcare, corporate offices, hospitalityHotels, healthcare, corporate offices, government buildings
Common Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

The main difference between a Desk Assistant and a Receptionist lies in their typical work environments and specific responsibilities. While both roles involve front desk duties and customer interaction, Desk Assistants often support administrative tasks in educational or healthcare settings, whereas Receptionists primarily handle guest or visitor reception in hospitality or corporate environments. Understanding these distinctions can help job seekers identify the right role for their skills and career goals.

What are some common challenges faced by Desk Assistants, and how can they effectively manage them?

Desk Assistants often handle multiple tasks simultaneously, such as greeting visitors, managing phone calls, and coordinating schedules. One common challenge is balancing these competing priorities while maintaining a positive and professional demeanor. Effective Desk Assistants use strong organizational skills, prioritize urgent requests, and communicate clearly with both team members and visitors. Adapting quickly to changing situations and using available technology can also help manage a fast-paced environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Desk Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Desk Assistant, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and basic administrative knowledge, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with office software like Microsoft Office Suite, phone systems, and scheduling tools is typically required. Excellent communication, a customer-service mindset, and the ability to multitask set outstanding Desk Assistants apart. These skills ensure efficient front-desk operations, positive visitor experiences, and effective support for office staff.

Can I be a receptionist with no experience?

Yes, many receptionist positions, including desk assistant roles, do not require prior experience. Employers often provide on-the-job training and look for basic skills such as communication, organization, and a professional appearance. Having a high school diploma or equivalent is typically sufficient to start in this role.

What is the easiest desk job to get?

A desk assistant position is generally considered one of the easiest desk jobs to obtain, often requiring minimal experience and basic organizational or customer service skills. These roles typically involve administrative support, data entry, or greeting visitors, and may require familiarity with office software. They are suitable for entry-level job seekers and often have flexible schedules.

What are desk assistants?

Desk assistants are support staff who help manage the front desk or reception area of an organization. Their duties typically include greeting visitors, answering phone calls, handling inquiries, sorting mail, and providing administrative support to other staff members. Desk assistants play a vital role in ensuring smooth day-to-day operations and creating a welcoming environment for guests and employees alike.
What are the most commonly searched types of Desk jobs in Countryside, IL? The most popular types of Desk jobs in Countryside, IL are:
What cities near Countryside, IL are hiring for Desk Assistant jobs? Cities near Countryside, IL with the most Desk Assistant job openings:

Circulation Desk Assistant (Part-time)

MOUNT PROSPECT PUBLIC LIBRARY

Mount Prospect, IL

$16.96/hr

Other

Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Do you enjoy a job that has a mix of public interaction and task-oriented work? We are hiring a part-time Desk Assistant with excellent customer service skills and a keen eye for detail to join our Circulation team. In this role, you will assist library users at our checkout desk and handle various workroom activities, such as checking in, sorting, and shelving material – ensuring material is moved smoothly throughout the library and readily available for our patrons to enjoy.

SCHEDULE: 25.5 hours per week on average -

  • Monday & Tuesday 2pm to 9pm
  • Friday 11am to 7pm
  • Every other weekend, Saturday 9am to 5pm & Sunday 11am to 5pm

SALARY: $16.96 per hour
 

BENEFITS

  • Paid time off (vacation, sick, holiday, and birthday)
  • Dental, life, and pet insurance
  • Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF) participation
  • 457 retirement savings plan

PURPOSE

Under the direct supervision of the designated supervisor (Circulation Department Head, Circulation Assistant Department Head, or Circulation Supervisor), the Circulation Desk Assistant is responsible for staffing the public desk, performing tasks related to the handling of library materials and other various clerical duties. This position is expected to handle all aspects of patron services related to the department within a team atmosphere.

SUMMARY OF DUTIES:

This position comprises of the following essential duties:

  1. Materials Handling (approx. 50%)
  2. Public Service (approx. 35%)

Other non-essential job duties may include special projects and other departmental tasks.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

Materials Handling

  1. Checks in, sorts, arranges, print and non-print materials to make ready for reshelving, including loading and arranging carts
  2. Inspects and cleans materials
  3. Shelves books and other materials in appropriate places
  4. Maintains shelves by straightening, shifting and organizing materials as assigned
  5. Reads shelves to ensure correct order of materials
  6. Retrieves materials used by patrons in the Library and keeps a tally of total materials picked up, sorted, & re-shelved
  7. Checks in in-house materials in ILS as assigned
  8. Prepares reports and compiles statistics as assigned
  9. Contacts patrons regarding lost, damaged, and overdue materials as needed
  10. Runs reports and participates in specialized tasks as assigned

Public Service

  1. Applies MPPL-values-based customer service
  2. Assists patrons at the public desk, on the telephone, and via e-mail with account inquiries.
  3. Monitors the behavior and conduct of Library patrons to ensure an atmosphere conducive to the use of the department and library resources for all patrons
  4. Assists patrons at public service desk with all circulation functions
  5. Answers patron questions on circulation related problems
  6. Registers patrons for new library cards; updates library card records as needed
  7. Adds reciprocal patron library cards to the database
  8. Collects money for fees and issues refunds as required

Special Projects

  1. Assists with training staff when assigned
  2. Participates in special projects when assigned

Other

  1. Attends appropriate meetings, workshops, and seminars
  2. Serves on committees as assigned
  3. Other duties as assigned

EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND EXPERIENCE

High school diploma (or equivalent work experience) required. Experience working in a public setting is desirable.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & WORK CONDITIONS

Knowledge & Ability

  • Knowledge of library policies and procedures   
  • Knowledge in the use of the Integrated Library System
  • Ability to access, input and retrieve data from the computer
  • Ability to alphabetize correctly and to understand numerical arrangement utilizing the decimal point
  • Ability to operate a two-way radio and telephone
  • Ability to read library material spines and labels
  • Ability to handle cash transactions and/or operate a cash register

Behavioral Skills

  1. Attention to Detail. Able to follow detailed procedures and ensure accuracy in documentation and data; concentrate on routine work details and organize and maintain a system of records.
  2. Communication. Able to clearly present information through the spoken or written word; read and interpret complex information; talk with customers or clients; listen well.
  3. Customer Focus. Able to demonstrate a high level of service delivery; do what is necessary to ensure internal and external customer satisfaction; deal with service failures and prioritize customer needs.
  4. Decision Making & Problem Solving. Able to take action in solving problems while exhibiting judgment and a realistic understanding of issues; able to use reason, even when dealing with emotional topics; review facts and weigh options.  
  5. Flexibility. Able to remain open-minded and change opinions on the basis of new information; perform a wide variety of tasks and change focus quickly as demands change; manage transitions effectively from task to task; adapt to varying customer needs.  
  6. Policies, Process, & Procedures. Able to act in accordance with established guidelines; follow standard procedures in crisis situations; communicate and enforce organizational policies and procedures; recognize and constructively conform to unwritten rules or practices.  
  7. Supporting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Able to adapt behavior to others' styles; interact effectively with people who have different values, cultures, or backgrounds; optimize the benefits of having a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workforce.
  8. Teamwork. Able to share due credit with coworkers; display enthusiasm and promote a friendly group working environment; work closely with other departments as necessary; support group decisions and solicit opinions from coworkers; display team spirit.  
  9. Tolerance of Ambiguity. Able to withhold actions or speech in the absence of information; deal with unresolved situations, frequent change, delays, or unexpected events.  

Working Conditions

  • Work is performed in a typical library environment
  • Work is performed while:
    • carrying library materials weighing up to 20 lbs.,
    • moving heavy book carts loaded with materials and/or while
    • standing for varied lengths of time (from 2 - 6 hours)