1

Secretary Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Building Secretary

Camas, WA · On-site

$17.25 - $22.50/hr

The Building Secretary coordinates the school office and provides a wide range of administrative support to assist with the effective and efficient operations of the building. This includes providing ...

Performs intermediate level secretarial, clerical and receptionist duties to support efficient office operations requiring a thorough understanding of department and appropriate agency procedures and ...

Performs intermediate level secretarial, clerical and receptionist duties to support efficient office operations requiring a thorough understanding of department and appropriate agency procedures and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Secretary information

See Portland, OR salary details

$26K

$48.7K

$66.8K

How much do secretary jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for secretary in Portland, OR is $48,725.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,800.00 and $55,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a secretary typically manage competing priorities and urgent requests throughout the workday?

Secretaries often handle multiple tasks simultaneously, such as scheduling meetings, answering correspondence, and supporting various team members. Managing competing priorities requires strong organizational skills, the ability to assess the urgency of requests, and clear communication with supervisors and colleagues. Many secretaries use digital tools like calendars and task management software to stay on top of deadlines and ensure nothing is overlooked. Proactively clarifying expectations and regularly updating supervisors about progress can help manage workload effectively.

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

To thrive as a Secretary, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and proficiency in office administration, usually supported by a high school diploma or associate degree. Familiarity with office software such as Microsoft Office Suite, scheduling tools, and basic bookkeeping systems is typically required. Excellent communication, discretion, and multitasking abilities help a Secretary excel in managing multiple responsibilities and interacting with diverse stakeholders. These skills ensure smooth office operations, efficient information flow, and professional support for teams and executives.

What is the difference between Secretary vs Administrative Assistant?

AspectSecretaryAdministrative Assistant
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certificationHigh school diploma; some roles may prefer additional certifications or training
Work EnvironmentOffice settings, often in legal, medical, or corporate environmentsVaries from office to administrative support across industries
Job ResponsibilitiesManaging schedules, answering phones, filing, and correspondenceSupporting office operations, coordinating meetings, handling reports
Usage & Search IntentOften searched for in legal, medical, or corporate contextsBroader, includes general office support roles

While both roles involve administrative support, secretaries typically focus on managing schedules and correspondence within specific industries like legal or medical. Administrative assistants often have broader responsibilities supporting overall office functions across various industries.

Do secretaries get paid a lot?

Secretaries' salaries vary depending on experience, location, and the industry they work in. On average, secretaries earn a median annual wage that is below many higher-skilled professions, but experienced secretaries with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher pay. Salary ranges typically reflect the level of responsibility and the complexity of tasks performed.

What does a secretary do?

A Secretary is often the first individual people come in contact with at a company, giving them the unofficial title as the “face of the organization.” They perform a wide range of tasks to assist the organization or company throughout the day. These tasks can include maintaining files, scheduling appointments or meetings, sending emails, recording meeting minutes, arranging guest travel arrangements, and answering phones. Secretaries frequently use computer software to create spreadsheets, manage databases, and produce documents, reports, and presentations. Some also gather data from a variety of sources, manage corporate libraries or manage stockrooms, buy supplies, and negotiate with vendors.

What are the most commonly searched types of Secretary jobs in Portland, OR? The most popular types of Secretary jobs in Portland, OR are:
What are popular job titles related to Secretary jobs in Portland, OR? For Secretary jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Secretary jobs? Cities near Portland, OR with the most Secretary job openings:
Infographic showing various Secretary job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,725 per year, or $23.4 per hour.

Administrative Secretary - Columbia Elementary School

Woodland School District 404

Woodland, WA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Position Type:
Secretarial/Clerical/Secretary
Date Posted:
7/30/2026
Location:
Columbia Elementary
Woodland Public Schools - Administrative Secretary - Columbia Elementary School
We appreciate your interest in employment with Woodland Public Schools. All applications are considered and reviewed. The most qualified and competitive applicant(s) who possess directly related experience and expertise, training, and education may be invited to participate in the interview/selection process. As part of the selection process, the District conducts confidential reference checks to include former and present employers and also requires a criminal background investigation. Unfortunately, due to the number of applications received, not all applicants will receive an interview.
All district employees are encouraged to review their personnel file periodically to ensure that their file includes current and relevant documentation that supports their education, experience, training, etc., as it relates to qualifications described on job postings.
Position Title: Administrative Secretary
Posting #: 3728
Location: Columbia Elementary School
Days/Hrs: 217 days (204 work days plus 13 holidays), 8 hours per day Monday through Friday
Start Date: 8/12/2026
Benefits: Position is eligible for medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D and LTD through the School Employee Benefits Board (SEBB) and retirement through the WA State Department of Retirement Systems (DRS)
Salary Schedule: Link to Schedule
Job Summary: Serves as administrative secretary to the principal and as a facilitator for the school being served in communicating information, problem-solving, material acquisition, cash handling, and record keeping. Provides secretarial support to the staff of the school.
Fiduciary responsibilities include reconciling the principal's purchase card and maintaining the building and ASB budgets. In a strong team-oriented environment, duties include overseeing the office, facilitating and organizing field trips, developing a master schedule, and other administrative duties related to the smooth operation of the school and supporting the building administrator. The work assists toward the accomplishment of the mission of the Woodland Public Schools of preparing students for career, life, and college so that they can become responsible and successful citizens.
The Administrative Secretary is supervised by the building principal/director.
Qualifications:
  • High School Diploma or equivalent
  • Demonstrated knowledge of modern office procedures including filing systems, data recording methods, and commonly used office equipment (i.e., computer, telephone, email, and fax)
  • Demonstrated ability to employ good principles of business correspondence and report organization
  • Demonstrated ability to work independently and effectively with minimal supervision, to learn quickly, exercise good judgment, take initiative, demonstrate flexibility, and maintain composure while working under frequent interruptions and changing priorities
  • Exceptional interpersonal and social skills to communicate and interact in a courteous, politically correct, and effective manner, using tact and diplomacy while exercising good judgment with individuals at all levels when meeting in person, or communicating in writing, and by telephone
  • Ability to independently research, compile, organize, interpret, and select data and materials from various sources
  • Demonstrated organizational skills and commitment to follow through on tasks without direct supervision
  • Demonstrated ability to budget time in an effective and efficient manner
  • Demonstrated ability to communicate in a warm, friendly, and professional manner, both orally and in writing, with students, staff, parents, and the public
  • Experience with general accounting procedures and processes
  • Demonstrated ability to maintain strict confidentiality with demonstrated experience in utilizing good judgment and discretion when working with a variety of sensitive issues or highly confidential information
  • Demonstrated ability to represent the school district positively in all interactions
  • Demonstrated knowledge and skills using a computer and utilizing Microsoft and database software (i.e., Word, Excel, Skyward, Google, etc.)
  • Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in a dynamic work environment
  • Demonstrated ability to employ principles of good business correspondence and report organization
  • Ability to establish priorities in a dynamic and high-stress environment with multiple supervisory personnel
  • Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
  • Ability to communicate in person and on the telephone with the general public in a professional manner
  • Demonstrated ability to communicate in a professional manner both orally and in writing with students, parents, staff and the public
  • Must possess excellent reading, writing, and editing skills
  • Prior experience with Skyward
  • Regular and punctual attendance

Such alternatives to the above requirements and desirable qualifications may be made as the district finds appropriate.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Support administrator and building staff
  • Remain flexible and team-oriented
  • Promote and practice professional growth and development
  • Planning/Organization/Time Management - The ability to plan ahead, manage time, accomplish tasks effectively, and maintain an accurate records system
  • Flexibility/Adaptability - Manage multiple conflicting priorities, ability to adjust to changing conditions, procedures, job interruptions, and deadlines
  • Prioritization - The ability to prioritize projects and daily tasks to ensure completion of essential projects
  • Problem Solving/Judgement - The ability to tackle problems on his/her own when appropriate and find constructive solutions
  • Commitment/Teamwork - The level of initiative/enthusiasm for work, professional conscience.
  • Office Procedures - Performing and understanding of daily office/divisional procedures
  • Quality of Work - The level of thoroughness, accuracy, and neatness of work which is produced
  • Finance/Budgeting - Knowledge and understanding of accounting procedures
  • Computer/Technical Skills - A high level of experience with computer programs and technology overall
  • Communication Skills - The ability to exchange information accurately and effectively both verbally and in written form with the entire learning community
  • Professionalism - The degree of cooperativeness and consideration displayed in working with the entire learning community. The ability to interact effectively and harmoniously with the entire learning community
  • Confidentiality - Maintain confidentiality related to students, their families, and staff and all matters concerning district business
  • Student Needs - Have the ability to establish and maintain positive relationships with the student body (genuine rapport)
  • Dress - Dress neatly in appearance; appropriately dressed for the job
  • Teachable - Accepts constructive criticism
  • Perform other tasks and assume other responsibilities as assigned by supervisor

Possible Building Specific Duties:
  • Work closely with the school principal to manage their emails and schedule
  • Maintain records and files for Administrator and related requirements
  • Maintain budget and required documentation for Administrator
  • Ability to type, prepare, distribute, file records/reports, attend to correspondence, mailings, etc. related to building functions and administrator needs
  • Order, process, and maintain office materials and equipment
  • Reconcile Procurement cards
  • Operate standard office equipment
  • Take in-service training as directed/approved by the administrator
  • Computer skills required include: Word, Excel, Skyward, and Google
  • Submit monthly AESOP report
  • Complete all secretarial/clerical functions of the department in an efficient and timely manner
  • Receptionist/greet public
  • Answer and direct incoming phone calls
  • Coordinate and organize various office/school mailings
  • End-of-year reporting processes

Physical Demands: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand and talk or hear and sometimes walk and sit.
Occasionally, the employee will bend or twist at the neck more than the average person. While performing the duties of this job, the employee may occasionally push or lift up to 50 lbs. The employee is directly responsible for the safety, well-being, or work output of other people.
Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision such as to read handwritten or typed material, and the ability to adjust focus. The position requires the individual to meet multiple demands from several people and interact with the public and other staff.
Work Environment:
The noise level in the work environment is moderate to loud.
Nothing in this job description restricts management's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.
Position Opens Internally: 7/30/26
Position Closes Internally: 8/5/26
Position Opens Externally (if necessary):8/6/26
Position Closes: Open until filled.
If you are hired for this position, you will be required to pay for a background check, unless you have completed the background check in the past two years, and it is on file with the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI).