Front Office Administrator
London Borough of Barking and Dagenham
About this job
Our well-established and highly regarded employment service is seeking a dedicated professional with strong front of house and administrative experience to support our team. B&D Works (formerly known as the Job Shop) provides employment advice, training, and job opportunities to local people looking for work. We are recruiting a 1-year fixed term Front Office Administrator who will be the first point of contact for residents accessing our service. In this role, you will help create a welcoming, efficient, and supportive environment for people from various backgrounds and those facing health conditions, disabilities, and those from disadvantaged backgrounds. Your work will directly contribute to transforming lives and supporting a fairer, more inclusive community. You will join a committed and passionate team operating in a diverse and fast paced environment. We pride ourselves on offering a safe, supportive workplace built on the belief that everyone deserves a fair chance, regardless of their circumstances. By helping residents access the right support, information, and guidance, you will play a key role in their journey toward employment and personal development. This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act, and an enhanced DBS check will be required for the successful applicant. What We’re Looking For We are seeking a self-motivated, enthusiastic team player who aligns with the Council’s core values: Deliver our best every day, and do what we promise Respond positively and promptly to the needs of our community Inspire others through our actions and attitudes Value people for who they are and what they can achieve Engage with others to strengthen resilience and flexibility
Special requirements for this post
Please complete your application form in full. To maximise your chances of being shortlisted, ensure you address each criterion in the Person Specification that is assessed by application. If the role requires proof of qualifications, ensure these are uploaded within the attachments section of your application. It is a criminal offence to apply for this role if you are barred from engaging in regulated activity involving children and vulnerable adults.
About you
As a Front Office Administrator, you will ensure the smooth running of our reception and administrative functions across B&D Works locations. You will provide high-quality customer service, manage enquiries, support staff with administrative tasks, and help residents access the right services. You will bring empathy, professionalism, and a person-centred approach to every interaction. Success in this role requires: A strong ability to empathise with residents and provide a welcoming first point of contact Excellent communication skills, both face-to-face and over the phone Confidence in managing a busy reception area and handling multiple tasks at once Strong organisational skills and the ability to work independently in a fast paced, target driven environment A proactive approach to problem-solving and supporting colleagues Key Responsibilities Provide a warm, professional, and inclusive front of house service Manage reception duties, including greeting visitors, handling enquiries, and maintaining a tidy and organised environment Support residents to sign in, access appointments, and navigate services Handle confidential information sensitively and in line with data protection requirements Maintain accurate records, appointment schedules, and administrative systems Support Work & Skills Brokers and other team members with administrative tasks Communicate confidently with residents, partners, and senior colleagues Use IT systems effectively, including email, databases, and booking tools Contribute to a positive team culture and uphold the Council’s values Please see further responsibilities within the Job Description, also please note this role will be based on-site within the offices 5 days per week and will be required to travel between sites to provide cover when needed.
About us
Employment and Skills sit within the Council’s Inclusive Growth directorate, which works to remove social and economic barriers so all residents can benefit from growth in the borough. Challenges such as poverty, homelessness, environmental issues, and unemployment can significantly affect individuals and families, and we aim to reduce these pressures through targeted support. B&D Works is the Council’s free employment service for Barking & Dagenham residents. Our mission is to help people improve their skills, expand their career options, and access tailored support either online or in person at our two community Job Shops. Our offer includes: Support with CVs, job applications, and interview preparation Training to increase employability and improve access to career opportunities Exclusive access to job vacancies across a wide range of sectors A team of dedicated Work and Skills Brokers Advice on benefits, childcare, and other issues affecting residents Specialist support for people with disabilities or health conditions