Full-time | $40,000 | Chicago, IL 

About The Ark 

The Ark is a vital resource in Chicago, providing a safety net for the Chicagoland Jewish community and anyone in need. Founded on the principles of dignity and compassion, The Ark offers free, comprehensive human services to help individuals and families navigate life’s challenges. With a deep commitment to restoring hope and self-reliance, The Ark integrates social services, medical care, and financial assistance in a welcoming, respectful environment.

About The Role

Every visit to The Ark starts at the front desk. The Administration Receptionist is the first person clients, visitors, and staff see when they walk in, and sets the tone for everything that follows. Alongside reception, you’ll handle the administrative work that keeps the office running smoothly. This role suits someone warm, steady, and organized, who stays composed when things get busy and treats every person with dignity. You’ll report to the Executive Assistant & Office Manager and work closely with the Welcome Center Manager and staff across departments.

What You’ll Do

Reception and Front-Desk

• Greet clients, visitors, and staff warmly, and make sure everyone feels acknowledged from the moment they arrive

• Answer, screen, and route calls to the right department or staff member

• Answer general questions or point people to the right resource
• Manage visitor check-in and coordinate with the Welcome Center Manager to keep client flow smooth
• Escalate concerning interactions promptly to the Welcome Center Manager, Office Manager, or Security
• Keep the front desk clean, organized, and welcoming

Administrative Support

• Sort, distribute, and process incoming and outgoing mail, using the Pitney Bowes postage meter and Canon scanner
• Support the Executive Assistant & Office Manager with supplies, room setup, mailings, and other office operations
• Help staff across departments with basic administrative tasks
• Keep front-desk supplies, sign-in materials, and visitor reference information stocked and current

Team Support

• Back up the Welcome Center Manager during busy periods and when coverage is needed
• Take part in all-staff meetings, training, and team gatherings

What You’ll Bring  

Education / Certifications: 

• High school diploma or equivalent required
• Associate’s degree or additional administrative training is a plus

Experience: 

• Prior reception, customer service, or front-desk experience required
• Experience in a nonprofit, human services, or healthcare setting is a plus

Skills/Requirements: 

• Warm, clear communication in person and on the phone

• Patience, empathy, and composure when supporting clients who may be under stress

• Ability to interact and communicate effectively with a wide variety of personalities and backgrounds

• Discretion with confidential and sensitive information

• Strong organization and the ability to juggle multiple tasks in a busy environment

• Comfort with Microsoft Office 365 and standard office equipment, and openness to learning new systems

• Dependable and punctual, with sensitivity to the Jewish community and the populations The Ark serves

• Able to stay at the front desk for extended periods and lift mail and packages up to 20 lbs

Schedule: 

This is a full-time, in person role. 

• Monday-Thursday, 9 am-4 pm
• Fridays, 9 am-2 pm

Why You’ll Love Working Here  

• No-Cost HMO Health Insurance with PPO plan options through BlueCross BlueShield

• 100% employer-paid vision and dental coverage

• PTO, sick leave, and generous Jewish and secular holiday time off

• Retirement Plan with matching

• A supportive, collaborative workplace rooted in compassion, integrity, and impact

How to Apply: 

• Please send a cover letter and current resume to [email protected]. Note that only applicants that submit both documents will be considered for this role. 

The Ark is proud to be an equal opportunity employer, welcoming candidates from all backgrounds and experiences. The Ark celebrates diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive and supportive workplace.