Executive Assistant role in AEC — architecture engineering construction
AEC Career Library

Executive Assistant: Role Overview, Responsibilities & 2025 Salary Data

Executive Assistants provide high-level administrative support to principals, CEOs, and senior leadership in AEC firms. They manage complex schedules, coordinate strategic initiatives, and serve as trusted partners to executives.

What Does a Executive Assistant Do?

Executive Assistants provide high-level administrative support to principals, CEOs, and senior leadership in AEC firms. They manage complex schedules, coordinate strategic initiatives, and serve as trusted partners to executives.

What Does a Executive Assistant Responsible For?

  • Manage executive calendars, travel, and meeting logistics
  • Coordinate board meetings, client meetings, and firm events
  • Prepare presentations, reports, and correspondence
  • Handle confidential information with discretion
  • Screen and prioritize communications and requests
  • Coordinate special projects and strategic initiatives
  • Liaise with clients, vendors, and internal departments
  • Manage expense reports and reimbursements

Executive Assistant Qualifications & Requirements

Technical Skills

  • Advanced Microsoft Office Suite proficiency
  • Calendar and travel management tools
  • Presentation software (PowerPoint, InDesign)
  • Document preparation and formatting
  • Project coordination
  • CRM and database management
  • Expense tracking systems
  • Meeting coordination and minute-taking

Professional Competencies

  • Exceptional organizational skills
  • Proactive problem-solving
  • Strong written and verbal communication
  • Discretion and confidentiality
  • Professionalism and poise
  • Ability to prioritize under pressure
  • Anticipatory service mindset

Education & Certifications

Education:

Bachelor's degree preferred; equivalent experience considered

Certifications:

CAP (Certified Administrative Professional) preferred

Preferred Qualifications

  • +5+ years of executive assistant experience
  • +Experience supporting C-level executives
  • +AEC industry experience highly valued
  • +Ability to work in fast-paced environment

Executive Assistant Market Outlook

Path to Senior Roles

Experienced Executive Assistants can advance to Chief of Staff, Executive Operations Manager, or Office Manager roles. Some transition into project management or business development support.

Typical Career Progression:

1
Executive Assistant → Senior Executive Assistant
2
Senior EA → Chief of Staff / Executive Operations Manager
3
Operations Manager → Director of Administration

Sample Job Description Templates

Executive Assistant

Position Overview

Support the CEO and executive team of our leading AEC firm. This role requires exceptional organizational skills, discretion, and the ability to manage competing priorities.

Key Responsibilities

  • Manage executive calendars and coordinate complex meetings
  • Arrange domestic and international travel logistics
  • Prepare board presentations and executive communications
  • Coordinate strategic initiatives and special projects
  • Screen and prioritize incoming requests
  • Liaise with clients, board members, and senior leadership

Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree preferred
  • 5+ years of executive assistant experience
  • Advanced Microsoft Office and presentation skills
  • Exceptional written and verbal communication
  • Proven ability to handle confidential information
  • AEC industry experience strongly preferred

Executive Assistant Salary Ranges (2025)

$72,000

Entry Level: $52K – $62K

Mid Level: $62K – $85K

Senior Level: $85K – $110K+

Salaries vary by experience, location, company size, and specialization.

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