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Temporary Receptionist Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Managed Staffing

Legal Receptionist

San Diego, CA · On-site

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

Legal Receptionist/Front desk/Mailroom Location: San Diego, CA 92101 Type ... Temp to Engage (Contract-to-Hire) Schedule: Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM (1-hour lunch ...

AA2IT

Receptionist

Irvine, CA · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

Receptionist Pat Rate: $21-23/HR Hours: M-F 8-5 Location: Irvine-17900 Laguna Canyon Rd, CA Short ... temporary badges - Escort people or client - Setting up conference room - Things needed in the ...

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$11

$18

$29

How much do temporary receptionist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for temporary receptionist in California is $18.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.47 and $21.11 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Which temporary receptionist job pays the most?

Temporary receptionist positions in high-demand industries such as healthcare, legal, or corporate sectors tend to offer higher pay. Factors like location, experience, and the complexity of the role can also influence compensation, with specialized or senior temporary receptionist roles generally paying more than entry-level positions.

What is a temporary receptionist?

A Temporary Receptionist is a short-term administrative professional responsible for greeting visitors, answering phone calls, handling basic office tasks, and directing inquiries. They may work in various industries to cover employee absences, busy periods, or special projects. Strong communication, organization, and multitasking skills are essential for success in this role.

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

To thrive as a Temporary Receptionist, you need strong organizational skills, proficiency in verbal and written communication, and basic computer literacy, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with office equipment, scheduling software, and phone systems like multi-line telephones or Microsoft Office is typical for this role. Exceptional customer service, adaptability, and professionalism are standout soft skills for temporary receptionists. These abilities ensure smooth front-desk operations, positive visitor experiences, and efficient coordination within a dynamic office environment.

Can a shy person be a temporary receptionist?

A temporary receptionist role requires good communication skills and a friendly demeanor, but being shy does not disqualify someone. With practice and confidence-building, shy individuals can succeed in customer service and front-desk positions. The job often involves interacting with visitors and answering calls, so interpersonal skills are important but can be developed over time.

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

To work as a temporary receptionist with no experience, focus on developing basic communication and organizational skills, and highlight any customer service or administrative tasks you've performed. Entry-level positions often require a professional appearance, a friendly attitude, and the ability to learn quickly; some employers may provide on-the-job training. Certifications in office software like Microsoft Office can also improve your chances.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a temporary receptionist?

A Temporary Receptionist generally handles answering and directing phone calls, greeting visitors, scheduling appointments, managing incoming mail, and performing basic administrative tasks such as filing or data entry. These responsibilities help maintain organized office operations and create a welcoming, professional first impression for clients and guests. As a key point of contact, you'll support staff by managing front-desk inquiries and facilitating communication within the team. This role is essential in ensuring the workplace runs smoothly and efficiently, even during transitional periods like employee absences or peak business times.

What are the most commonly searched types of Receptionist jobs in California? The most popular types of Receptionist jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Temporary Receptionist jobs in California? For Temporary Receptionist jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Temporary Receptionist jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Temporary Receptionist jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Temporary Receptionist jobs? Cities in California with the most Temporary Receptionist job openings:
Temporary Receptionist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Temporary Receptionist job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 56% Full Time, 22% Temporary, and 22% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,186 per year, or $18.4 per hour.

Substitute/Temporary/On-call - Receptionist II

Santa Cruz County Office Of Education

Santa Cruz, CA • On-site

$23.19/hr

Temporary

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

About the Employer
The Santa Cruz County Office of Education is committed to ensuring all students have the educational opportunities they need to thrive. We offer a wide range of services and programs geared at supporting our 10 public school districts and expanding educational opportunities and outcomes for over 37,000 students who call Santa Cruz County home. We envision an impactful educational community where everyone feels they belong and have the resources, relationships, and skills to thrive. Our mission is to create an equitable educational system that fosters growth, opportunities, and well-being for all. We work alongside partners in Santa Cruz County's educational community to build BRIDGES - Belonging, Relationships, Innovation, Data-informed decision-making, Growth mindsets, Excellence, and Sustainability - to equity in education.
The Santa Cruz County Office of Education is an equal opportunity employer.
Job Summary
This position will be assigned to Human Resources Department: Under general supervision, check-in and direct visitors and public to appropriate division personnel; perform a variety of duties involved in the operation of a multi-button central telephone system and main receptionist desk; provide information to staff, school officials and the general public accurately and courteously; maintain and coordinate the functions of the central mail room and perform a variety of clerical tasks; provides clerical support and assistance to the Human Resources Department. Exercise no oversight over County Office staff.
This substitute/temporary/on-call position will be open until filled and cover while the employee is out or to cover for school events.
Requirements / Qualifications
Comments and Other Information
Benefits: No benefits are offered with this position. On-call/temporary workers do not receive vacation but do receive sick as defined under Healthy Families Act (AB 1522/SB 616).

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