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Receptionist Temp Jobs in Portland, ME (NOW HIRING)

Office Assistant II

Brunswick, ME · On-site

$16.07 - $22.25/hr

... Receptionist and customer assistance by phone, • Data entry (entering data and narratives) • ... MaineCare, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), Supplemental Nutrition Assistance ...

Receptionist Temp information

See Portland, ME salary details

$10

$18

$25

How much do receptionist temp jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for receptionist temp in Portland, ME is $18.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.72 and $20.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a receptionist temp?

Receptionist temps are temporary workers who fill in as front desk receptionists for organizations on a short-term basis. They handle tasks such as answering phones, greeting visitors, managing appointments, and performing basic administrative duties. Companies often hire receptionist temps to cover staff absences, busy periods, or special projects. These roles typically require strong communication and organizational skills, as well as the ability to quickly adapt to new environments. Temporary receptionist assignments can range from a few days to several weeks or months, depending on the employer's needs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a receptionist temp?

To thrive as a Receptionist Temp, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and basic administrative qualifications such as familiarity with office procedures. Proficiency in office software like Microsoft Office Suite and experience with phone systems or scheduling tools are typically required. Excellent verbal communication, professionalism, and adaptability make someone stand out in this fast-paced, client-facing role. These abilities ensure efficient office operations, a positive first impression for visitors, and seamless support for the team during temporary assignments.

What are the typical challenges a receptionist temp might face when adapting to new workplace environments?

As a Receptionist Temp, one common challenge is quickly learning new office protocols, phone systems, and company cultures since assignments can frequently change. You'll need to adapt rapidly, often with minimal training, and remain organized while managing multiple tasks such as greeting visitors, handling calls, and supporting administrative staff. Strong communication skills and a flexible attitude are essential for thriving in fast-paced or unfamiliar settings. Being proactive in asking questions and taking notes can help ease the transition and ensure you deliver excellent service.

What is the difference between Receptionist Temp vs Receptionist?

AspectReceptionist TempReceptionist
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require basic computer skillsHigh school diploma; often requires experience in customer service or administrative tasks
Work EnvironmentTemporary assignments in various office settingsPermanent position within a specific organization
Employer & Industry UsageStaffing agencies, multiple industriesSingle employer, corporate or healthcare settings
Search & Comparison IntentLooking for temporary front desk or administrative support rolesSeeking full-time or permanent receptionist positions

The main difference between a Receptionist Temp and a Receptionist is the employment duration and stability. A Receptionist Temp works on short-term assignments through staffing agencies, offering flexibility but less job security. A Receptionist is a permanent employee within a company, providing consistent support and benefits. Both roles require similar skills, but their employment terms and work environments differ significantly.

How can I work as a receptionist temp with no experience?

To work as a receptionist temp with no experience, focus on developing basic communication and organizational skills, and highlight any customer service or administrative tasks you've performed. Entry-level temp agencies often provide on-the-job training, and having a professional resume that emphasizes reliability and a positive attitude can improve your chances of securing a temporary receptionist position.

What type of receptionist temp gets paid the most?

The highest-paid receptionist temps typically have specialized skills such as bilingual abilities, experience with advanced office software, or industry-specific knowledge. Temporary receptionists with prior experience in high-demand sectors like healthcare or legal offices often command higher rates. Certifications in office administration can also contribute to increased pay.

What are the most commonly searched types of Receptionist jobs in Portland, ME?

The most popular types of Receptionist jobs in Portland, ME are:

What cities near Portland, ME are hiring for Receptionist Temp jobs?

Cities near Portland, ME with the most Receptionist Temp job openings:

Infographic showing various Receptionist Temp job openings in Portland, ME as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,925 per year, or $18.2 per hour.

Office Assistant II

State of Maine

Brunswick, ME • On-site

$16.07 - $22.25/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


State Of Maine rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 89 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

9th of 50 rated states


Job description

If you are a current State of Maine employee, please submit your application through the internal application process using the Find Jobs report in PRISM. Seasonal employees who do not have PRISM access should apply through the State's career page and indicate on the application that they have previously worked for the State.
Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS)
Opening Date: August 13, 2026
Closing Date: August 26, 2026
Job Class Code: 6538
Grade: 08 (Admin Svcs)
Salary: $16.07 - $22.25 per hour*
*This is inclusive of a 4.00% recruitment and retention stipend
*New employees begin at Step 1, $16.07 per hour
Position Number: 02022-7293
Location: Fort Kent
Currently, this position is not eligible for visa sponsorship or STEM OPT extensions.
Core Responsibilities:
As an Office Assistant II, you will be performing a variety of administrative support duties including typing, filing, making copies, answering telephones and other general clerical duties as needed.
These duties may include:
• Answering incoming phone calls,
• Processing incoming and outgoing mail,
• Filing of paperwork and documents,
• Faxing, scanning and indexing documents,
• Assisting with lobby and mailroom duties as a back-up for Regional Operations staff,
• Other miscellaneous administrative duties as assigned
Minimum Qualifications:
In order to qualify, you must have training, education, or experience in office and administrative support work that demonstrates 1) competency in applying a general knowledge of modern office practices to perform routine, varied office support tasks often requiring the operation of technical office equipment, and 2) the ability to use independent judgment in prioritizing the work and selecting the most appropriate course of action within set procedures. All positions in this classification assume the qualifications of: Office Assistant I.
Please submit a cover letter rating your skills in each of the following tasks/tools as: expert, skilled or novice.
• Outlook or comparable email applications,
• Excel or comparable spreadsheet applications,
• MS Word or comparable word processing applications,
• Receptionist and customer assistance by phone,
• Data entry (entering data and narratives)
• Keyboarding (words per minute).
Thinking about applying?
Research shows that people from historically excluded communities tend to apply to jobs only when they check every box in the posting. If you're currently reading this and hesitating to apply for that reason, we encourage you to go for it! Let us know how your lived experience and passion set you apart.
Agency information:
The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is dedicated to promoting health, safety, resilience, and opportunity for Maine people. The Department provides health and social services to approximately a third of the State's population, including children, families, older Mainers, and individuals with disabilities, mental illness, and substance use disorders. The Department also promotes public health, operates two state psychiatric hospitals, and provides oversight to health care providers.
The Office for Family Independence (OFI) is responsible for administration of a number of programs and services, including MaineCare, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, Child Support, and Disability Determinations.
Application Information:
For additional information about this position, please contact Marcus Hatch at Marcus.Hatch@Maine.gov
To apply, please upload a recent resume and a cover letter rating your skills in each of the six (6) areas in the Minimum Qualifications Section.
Please submit all documents or files in a PDF or Word format.
To request a paper application, please contact Mandy.Hernandez@Maine.gov
Benefits of working for the State of Maine:
No matter where you work across Maine state government, you find employees who embody our state motto-"Dirigo" or "I lead"-as they provide essential services to Mainers every day. We believe in supporting our workforce's health and wellbeing with a valuable total compensation package, including:
  • Work-Life Fit - Rest is essential. Take time for yourself using 13 paid holidays and 3+ weeks of vacation leave annually. Vacation leave accrual increases with years of service, and overtime-exempt employees receive personal leave. When you or immediate members of your family are ill, utilize 12 days of sick leave per year.
  • Health Insurance Coverage - The State of Maine pays 85%-95% of employee-only premiums ($12,213.60 - $13,650.48 annual value), depending on salary. Use this chart to find the premium costsfor you and your family, including the percentage of dependent coverage paid by the State.
  • Health Insurance Premium Credit - Participation decreases employee-only premiums by 5%. Visit the Office of Employee Health and Wellness for more information about program requirements.
  • Dental Insurance - The State of Maine pays 100% of employee-only dental premiums ($365.28 annual value).
  • Retirement Plan - The State contributes the equivalent of 14.06% of the employee's pay towards the Maine Public Employees Retirement System (MainePERS), on behalf of the employee.
  • Gym Membership Reimbursement - Improve overall health with regular exercise and receive up to $40 per month to offset this expense.
  • Health and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts - Set aside money pre-tax to help pay for out-of-pocket health care expenses and/or daycare expenses.
  • Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness - The State of Maine is a qualified employer for this federal program. For more information, visit the Federal Student Aid office.
  • Living Resources Program - Navigate challenging work and life situations with our employee assistance program.
  • Parental leave is one of the most important benefits for any working parent. All employees who are welcoming a child-including non-birthing and adoptive parents-receive six weeks of fully paid parental leave. Additional, unpaid leave may also be available, under the Family and Medical Leave Act.
  • Voluntary Deferred Compensation - Save additional pre-tax funds for retirement in a MaineSaves 457(b) account through payroll deductions.

State employees are eligible for an extensive and highly competitive benefits package, covering many aspects of wellness. Learn about additional wellness benefits for State employees from the Office of Employee Health and Wellness.
Note: Benefits may vary somewhat according to specific collective bargaining agreements and are prorated for anything less than full-time.
There's a job and then there's purposeful, transformative work. Our aim is to create a workplace where you can learn, grow, and continuously refine your skills. Applicants demonstrate job requirements in differing ways, and we appreciate that many skills and backgrounds can make people successful in this role.
As an Equal Opportunity employer, Maine State Government embraces a culture of respect and awareness. We are committed to creating a strong sense of belonging for all team members, and our process ensures an inclusive environment to applicants of all backgrounds including diverse race, color, sex, sexual orientation or gender identity, physical or mental disability, religion, age, ancestry, national origin, familial status or genetics.
If you're looking for a great next step, and want to feel good about what you do, we'd love to hear from you. Please note reasonable accommodations are provided to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request.
If you are unable to complete the online application, please contact the Human Resources representative listed on the job opening you are interested in applying for. They will work with you for an alternative method of submitting.

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