Development and Alumni Relations Receptionist

Rice University, located in Houston, Texas, is a renowned private research university with a sprawling 300-acre tree-lined campus. Consistently ranked among the top 20 national universities by U.S. News & World Report, Rice boasts a close-knit undergraduate student-to-faculty ratio of 6-to-1, allowing for personalized academic experiences and mentoring. The university operates a unique residential college system, which enriches students’ intellectual, emotional, and cultural lives through a diverse array of social events, intramural sports, student plays, lecture series, courses, and student government activities. This strong tradition of fostering diverse college communities contributes to Rice’s outstanding reputation for quality of life and value among private universities. Beyond academics, Rice University is also committed to being an excellent place to work. The university’s faculty, staff, and students all share core values essential to maintaining a healthy and thriving community. These values, symbolized by the acronym RICE, stand for Responsibility, Integrity, Community, and Excellence. They shape the university’s culture, guiding how members treat one another and welcome visitors alike.

The Development and Alumni Relations Receptionist position at Rice University provides a vital role within the Development and Alumni Relations staff, located at the Ion Building in the Rice Innovation District in downtown Houston. This full-time, in-person, on-site role supports the administrative and operational needs of the division by managing multiple daily responsibilities. The receptionist serves as the initial point of contact for visitors and callers, delivering courteous and efficient service. Key responsibilities include managing room reservations and calendars, greeting guests, answering phones, sorting mail, and ordering office supplies to ensure the smooth operation of the office. This position requires a detail-oriented, energetic professional comfortable juggling multiple tasks while providing friendly, professional service to staff and visitors alike. Strong verbal and written communications skills coupled with excellent organizational abilities are essential to success in this role. Working within a vibrant university setting, the receptionist will also have the opportunity to engage with a broad community, supporting Rice University’s mission and values through their everyday interactions and contributions. Additionally, as a non-exempt, hourly position under the Fair Labor Standards Act, this role may qualify for overtime work as needed. The candidate should expect a dynamic and welcoming workplace reflective of Rice’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. This role offers an excellent opportunity for individuals looking to grow their administrative skills within a prestigious academic institution and to contribute significantly to the university’s Development and Alumni Relations efforts.