About this role
University Settlement partners with 40,000+ New Yorkers in Lower Manhattan and Brooklyn every year to build on our collective strengths as we achieve healthy, stable, and remarkable lives. For nearly 140 years, we’ve fought poverty and systemic inequality by building highly effective social services in collaboration with our neighbors. Established in 1886 as the first Settlement House in the United States, we bring the values of that movement into the 21st century by meeting New Yorkers where they live, listening deeply to all perspectives, and creating space for responsive cooperation.
Joining with our neighbors to make stable foundations where people of all ages can grow and pursue their dreams, we build community strength. We infuse a commitment to civic engagement, equality, and communal action into each of our programs, which include early childhood education, youth development, healthy aging, mental health and wellness, English classes for adult immigrants, community centers, and the arts.
The Front Desk Receptionist serves as the first point of contact for all visitors, participants, staff, and community members entering 175 Eldridge Street. This position is responsible for providing a welcoming and professional environment, controlling access to the building, managing participant attendance, and sharing program information while supporting the safety and daily operations of the facility.
Responsibilities:
- Monitor and control access to the building, ensuring a safe and secure environment for staff, participants, and visitors.
- Greet, check in, and direct visitors in a courteous, professional, and welcoming manner.
- Manage participant sign-in and sign-out processes throughout program operating hours to ensure accurate attendance records and compliance with safety procedures.
- Provide accurate information regarding program services, schedules, policies, procedures, and resources.
- Maintain visitor logs and other reception-related records in a timely and organized manner.
- Communicate and coordinate with program staff during daily operations and promptly report concerns, incidents, or emergencies.
- Assist with the implementation of emergency procedures, including fire drills and health and safety protocols.
- Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned.
Qualifications:
- High School Diploma or equivalent required.
- Minimum of two (2) years of reception, customer service, or related administrative experience.
- Demonstrated ability to interact effectively with diverse populations, including children, families, staff, and community members.
- Strong interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills.
- Excellent customer service and telephone etiquette.
- Ability to remain professional, organized, and calm while working in a fast-paced environment.
- Strong attention to detail and ability to maintain accurate records.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and basic computer applications preferred.
- Bilingual English/Spanish or English/Chinese preferred.
- Professional appearance and demeanor.
Physical Requirements:
- Ability to sit, stand, and move throughout the workday.
- Ability to communicate effectively in person and by telephone.
- Ability to respond appropriately during emergency situations.
We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive community. We support a broadly diverse team who will contribute to our organization. We are an equal opportunity employer for all regardless of race, color, citizenship, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, veteran or reservist status, or any other category protected by federal, state, or local law.