Receptionist

Palo Alto, CA, USA|Onsite

Job Overview

Employment Type

Full-time

Compensation

Hourly

Range $24.52 - $33.17

Work Schedule

Standard Hours

Benefits

Health Insurance

Dental Insurance

Paid Time Off

Merit bonus

overtime pay

Retirement Plan

Job Description

Wilson Sonsini is a premier legal advisory firm known globally for its expertise in serving technology, life sciences, and other growth enterprises. Established with a mission to support companies from their earliest stages as entrepreneurial start-ups to globally recognized multibillion-dollar corporations, Wilson Sonsini stands at the forefront of legal innovation and counsel. The firm also provides expert advisory services to venture firms, private equity firms, and investment banks that play crucial roles in financing and advising these companies. With approximately 1,100 attorneys spread across 17 offices—13 in the U.S., two in China, and two in Europe—the firm boasts an expansive footprint that supports a broad spectrum of legal practices. This diverse landscape creates a dynamic environment fostering career growth, professional achievement, and entrepreneurial spirit.

The Receptionist role at Wilson Sonsini’s Palo Alto office is a pivotal full-time position within the Reception Services department, focusing on providing outstanding hospitality and operational support. Reporting directly to the Office Administrator, the Receptionist is one of the first points of contact for visitors, clients, attorneys, and internal staff, embodying the firm’s commitment to professionalism and welcome. This role demands exceptional communication, organizational skills, and the capability to multitask efficiently in a fast-paced professional services environment.

Key duties involve managing inbound calls through the firm’s Landis Attendant Console System integrated with Microsoft Teams, ensuring callers are directed appropriately and efficiently. The role also includes backup coverage for front desk receptionists, and although primarily based in the back office, it supports comprehensive reception and daily administrative functions. The Receptionist works collaboratively with the Office Administrator and office services teams to coordinate meeting space reservations, office hoteling logistics, visitor check-in and escorting, and the maintenance of hospitality standards across conference rooms and common areas.

This position is critical to the seamless coordination of office operations, including cooperating with Facilities, Cafe, IT, and Security teams to guarantee successful event support and hospitality readiness. The role also encompasses special projects and additional administrative duties as assigned, contributing to the firm’s smooth daily functions. Candidates for this role should be prepared to work onsite Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., playing a key role in fostering a welcoming, service-oriented work environment.

The compensation for this role ranges from $24.52 to $33.17 per hour, with potential for overtime and a discretionary year-end merit bonus based on performance. Wilson Sonsini offers a highly competitive salary package combined with a comprehensive range of benefits and career development opportunities. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, Wilson Sonsini is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion within its workforce.

Job Requirements

High school diploma or GED
1+ year of reception experience
Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Strong computer skills including Microsoft Office and Microsoft Teams
Ability to work onsite Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Ability to handle multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
Strong organizational and customer service skills
Ability to work independently and follow established procedures
Flexibility to adjust schedules and work overtime as needed

Job Qualifications

1+ year of prior reception experience
High school diploma or GED required
Bachelor’s degree preferred
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to interact professionally and effectively with internal and external clients, visitors, attorneys, and staff
Strong computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook) and Microsoft Teams
Prior experience using the Microsoft Teams Phone Landis Attendant Console System is a plus, including the ability to manage a high volume of incoming calls in a professional and efficient manner
Strong organizational, administrative, and customer service skills with exceptional attention to detail and follow-through
Ability to prioritize multiple tasks, work effectively under pressure, and meet deadlines while maintaining a positive attitude and high level of professionalism
Demonstrated ability to work independently and complete assignments within established guidelines, procedures, and standard business practices
Flexible and adaptable with the ability to adjust priorities, work overtime, or modify schedules on short notice based on business and operational needs
This position requires a regular onsite presence as part of the firm’s in-office work environment

Job Duties

Assist employees with telephone and voicemail support inquiries
Research internal records and databases to identify attorney and client relationships as needed
Coordinate meeting and event support with Facilities, Cafe, IT, and Security teams to ensure successful execution and hospitality readiness
Maintain conference room and hospitality standards throughout the office
Assist with special projects and additional administrative duties as assigned
Maintain compliance with all firm policies, procedures, and operational standards