OFFICE ASSISTANT - PART TIME

City of Houston; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 21,000 - 30,000; Part time

Job summary

The City of Houston’s Planning & Development Department is seeking a part-time Office Assistant to provide administrative and front-desk support, helping keep the office organized during limited scheduled hours. The ideal candidate is highly organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment, with strong communication skills and the ability to work independently.

This role offers an opportunity to contribute to public service in Houston and gain exposure to

Qualifications

• Clear, professional written and verbal communication.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in all tasks.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Assist with Document Signature Collection: route documents and obtain signatures.
• Assist with Department Communications: respond to inquiries professionally.
• Support Small-Scale Projects: aid with administrative tasks and data entry.
• Deliver Front Desk Services: greet visitors, answer calls, and direct inquiries.

Skills

Communication

Detail-oriented

Organized & Efficient

Problem-Solver

Adaptable

Proactive

Team-Oriented

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

Position Overview

Applications accepted from: ALL PERSONS INTERESTED

Division: Management Services

Reporting Location: 611 Walker - 6th floor

Workdays & Hours: Part Time - VARIOUS*

Subject to change*

You are invited to bring your passion for public service and improving the Houston community to the Planning and Development Department as an Office Assistant. Join a dynamic Planning team that is actively working to improve the built and social environments of Houston. The work we do has a lasting impact on the future of our city. Houston is a place where the cost of living is more than 25% below the top 20 metro average, and with no state income tax, home ownership is very achievable. As the fourth largest and most ethnically diversity city in the U.S., Houston has first-class access to medical care, recreation, food, festivals, sports, museums, and the performing arts.

About Us

The City of Houston’s Planning & Development Department is a key player in the mayor’s efforts to improve public safety and infrastructure, enhance the quality of life, and maintain an efficient government that works for more than 2 million residents. Much like Houston itself, we are a culturally diverse team that is committed to improving Houston’s built environment. Our team draws and retains passionate, curious, life-long learners, and big picture thought leaders who make a difference every day by balancing the needs and interests of the community we serve. We strive to operate as a customer-focused, goal-oriented, and efficient organization. We treat ourselves, our partners, and our customers with respect while placing continuous learning at the center of our operations.

Position Profile

The Part-Time Office Assistant provides administrative and operational support to ensure smooth office functions. This role assists with routine tasks, small projects, and front desk responsibilities, contributing to an organized and efficient work environment.

The ideal candidate is highly organized, detail-oriented, and proactive, with excellent communication skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment. They are adaptable, dependable, and capable of working independently while providing exceptional administrative support during limited scheduled hours.

Description Of Duties / Essential Functions

• Assist with Document Signature Collection: Support the routing of documents by obtaining required signatures in a timely and accurate manner.
• Assist with Department Communications: Monitor, prioritize, and respond to inquiries, maintaining accuracy and professionalism.
• Support Small-Scale Projects: Assist with short-term initiatives, including administrative tasks, data entry, and project coordination as assigned.
• Deliver Front Desk Services: Provide courteous and efficient reception support, including greeting visitors, answering calls, and directing inquiries appropriately.

DESIRED EMPLOYEE ATTRIBUTES

• Communication: Clear, professional written and verbal communication skills.
• Detail-Oriented: Strong accuracy and attention to detail in all tasks.
• Organized & Efficient: Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
• Problem-Solver: Resourceful and able to troubleshoot effectively.
• Adaptable: Flexible and responsive to changing priorities.
• Proactive: Self-starter with initiative and a focus on results.
• Team-Oriented: Collaborative and able to build positive working relationships.

Working Conditions

The position occasionally requires stooping or bending. Occasional very light lifting, such as three or four reams of papers or books (up to 20 pounds or an equivalent weight) may be required. There are occasional minor discomforts from exposure to less-than-optimal temperature and air conditions. The position may involve dealing with modestly unpleasant situations, as with occasional exposure to office chemicals and/or extensive use of a video display terminal.

This is a Planning and Development Department Position at the Tier III Level.

Minimum Requirements

EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

Requires a high school diploma or a GED.

Certification: May be required to pass a City administered typing test with a typing speed of 60 words per minute with no more than 6 errors.

Experience: One year of clerical or administrative support experience is required.

Preferences

• Preference shall be given to eligible veteran applicants provided such persons possess the qualifications necessary for competent discharge of the duties involved in the position applied for, such persons are among the most qualified candidates for the position, and all other factors in accordance with Executive Order 1-6.

General Information

All duties and responsibilities may not be included in the above job description.

All new and rehires must pass a pre‑employment drug test and are subject to a physical examination and verification of information provided.

Selection/Skills Tests Required

The selection process will involve application review and/or interview. The department may administer a skill assessment.

Safety Impact Position

No

Salary Information

Factors used in determining the salary offered include the candidate's qualifications as well as the pay rates of other employees in this classification.

Pay Grade: 09

EOE EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

The City of Houston is committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual's sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy.