What are the responsibilities and job description for the Administrative Office Assistant I/II position at City of Modesto?
THE POSITION
The City of Modesto is on the lookout for an upbeat, organized Administrative Office Assistant I/II who loves keeping things running smoothly. From greeting visitors with a smile to mastering mail, records, and all the little details that make an office hum, you’ll be at the center of the action. If you’ve got six months of clerical experience and a high school diploma or GED, come join us and help keep Modesto’s departments shining!
Upcoming Salary Increases And Incentives:
3�fective 7/1/2026
2.5% Education Incentive - Bachelor's Degree
5% Education Incentive - Master's Degree
The Administrative Office Assistant I/II is responsible to provide a variety of routine to moderately difficult office support to various City departments and offices, including but not limited to, processing and handling of mail, record keeping, specialized processing related to the department in which assigned, typing, word processing, telephone and in-person reception, and filing.
Application Process:
Applicants will be assessed on the application submitted. Due to the volume of applications received, resumes will not be screened for the purpose of determining who is the most qualified to compete in the testing process. It is the applicant's responsibility to fill out the "Education" and "Work Experience" section of the application with complete information and adequate detail. Do not substitute any part of the application with the words "SEE RESUME".
The following information is provided for use as a reference and as a planning tool. Human Resources is unable to schedule make-up examinations. Applicants considered to be the most qualified will be invited to continue in the testing process. The Human Resources Department reserves the right to revise the testing process to best meet the needs of the City.
Tentative Testing Schedule
Online exam
April 22, 2026 - April 28, 2026
The City of Modesto is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to fostering, cultivating and preserving a culture of diversity, equity and inclusion.
Essential And Marginal Function Statements
Essential and other important responsibilities and duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:
Essential Functions:
Perform a variety of office support and general clerical duties related to the work unit.
Process correspondence, reports, forms, and specialized documents related to the functions of the organizational unit to which assigned from drafts, notes, dictated tapes, or brief instructions.
Proofread and check typed and other materials for accuracy, completeness, compliance with departmental policies, and correct English usage including grammar, punctuation, and spelling.
Enter, retrieve and process data, and generate reports using computer systems, following established formats.
Gather information from individuals or reference sources to complete and process various routine forms, records, and applications; and contact individuals to obtain additional information.
Maintain records and process and translate forms, such as time records, purchase requisitions and orders, reservation of City pool vehicles, service contract payments, refunds, and others specific to the organizational unit.
May process and generate fund transfers, checks, and invoices.
Post and transcribe data, prepare, and update a variety of reports.
Perform a variety of routine arithmetical calculations.
Establish and maintain office files, and research and compile information from such files.
Act as receptionist and receive and screen visitors and telephone calls, take messages, and make appointments; provide directions and basic information and assistance.
Provide information regarding City or unit activities and functions.
Perform such office support activities as opening and distributing mail, processing outgoing mail, operating a postage meter, and ordering office supplies.
Build and maintain positive working relationships with co-workers, other City employees, and the public using principles of good customer service.
Observe and maintain a safe working environment in compliance with established safety programs and procedures.
Marginal Functions:
Perform related duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications
Administrative Office Assistant I
Knowledge Of:
Basic practices and procedures of filing systems.
Correct English usage, including spelling, grammar, and punctuation.
Office procedures, methods, and equipment including computers and applicable software applications such as word processing, spreadsheets, and databases.
Ability To:
Learn specialized processing, procedures, and office support tasks related to the
department to which assigned.
Understand and carry out oral and written instructions.
Maintain accurate records and files.
Make accurate arithmetic calculations.
Depending on assignment, accurately perform basic clerical work.
Type and perform word-processing at a speed necessary for successful job performance.
Multi-task and maintain attention to detail with frequent interruptions.
Communicate tactfully and effectively with the public, remain calm, and follow designated protocols in stressful and/or emergency situations.
Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
Operate office equipment including computers and supporting word processing, spreadsheet, and database applications.
Experience And Training Guidelines:
Any combination of experience and training that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required knowledge and abilities would be:
Experience:
Six months of general clerical experience.
Training:
High School diploma or GED equivalency.
License And Certificate:
Depending upon assignment, a valid California driver’s license may be required.
Administrative Office Assistant II
In addition to the qualifications for the Administrative Office Assistant I:
Knowledge Of:
Business letter writing and standard formats for typed materials.
Policies, procedures, processes, and forms related to the department to which assigned.
Ability To:
Organize and maintain office files and records.
Compose routine correspondence from brief instructions.
Use initiative and sound independent judgment within established guidelines.
Prioritize work and coordinate several activities simultaneously.
Proofread various documents to maintain accuracy.
Experience:
Eighteen months of general clerical experience.
or
One year of experience with the City of Modesto as an Administrative Office Assistant I with the City of Modesto.
License And Certificate:
Depending upon assignment, a valid California driver’s license may be required.
Physical And Mental Requirements
Mobility: frequent use of keyboard; frequent sitting for long periods of time; occasional bending or squatting. Lifting: frequently up to 10 pounds; occasionally up to 25 pounds. Vision: constant use of overall vision; frequent reading and close-up work; occasional color and depth vision. Dexterity: frequent repetitive motion; frequent writing; frequent grasping, holding, and reaching. Hearing/Talking: frequent hearing and talking, in person and on the phone. Emotional/Psychological: frequent decision making and concentration; frequent public and/or coworker contact; occasional working alone. Environmental: frequent exposure to noise.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Work is performed in a typical temperature-controlled office environment subject to typical office noise and environment. Some positions may be assigned to remote locations. Positions may require occasional overtime and weekend work and travel is rare.
Modesto City Employee Association (MCEA)
Employee benefits are subject to change and are not guaranteed. For a detailed explanation of benefits currently in effect please see the Memoranda of Understanding.
PUBLIC EMPLOYEES' RETIREMENT SYSTEM: CalPERS enrollment in either the 2% @ 60 or the 2% @ 62 formula is dependent on eligibility, as per AB 340. Employee pays the full member contribution. Retirement benefit is based on the employees three year final compensation average. The City does not participate in Social Security except for the required 1.45% Medicare contribution by both the City and the employee (applies to employees hired after 4-1-86).
HOLIDAYS: 12 paid holidays per year plus 8 hours of holiday credit.
VACATION: Accrual normally begins at a rate of two weeks per year, with incremental increases to five weeks at 21 years of service. Employees may accumulate up to twice their annual accrual.
SICK LEAVE: Accumulated at 8 hours per month, 96 hours per year. Employees may accumulate up to 2,100 hours.
MEDICAL INSURANCE: Health, dental and vision coverage is provided. The City's monthly contribution to health, dental and vision benefits is based on a three-tier system as follows:
$ 2,110.00 Employee Family
$ 1,494.00 Employee 1 Dependent
$ 748.00 Employee Only
$ 450.00 Opt Out
The employee pays the balance. An employee who opts out of health coverage receives the amount noted above minus dental and vision premium on their paycheck and treated as taxable income. Dental and vision coverage continuation is available upon retirement.
LIFE INSURANCE: Coverage in the amount of $20,000 is provided by the City. Supplemental coverage is available at employee cost.
DISABILITY INSURANCE: coverage is provided by the City, at City cost. This benefit pays 66 2/3% of the first $12,000 per month in salary.
DEFERRED COMPENSATION: With a matching contribution by the employee, the City will contribute 1% of salary, (increasing to 2% after 15 years of service) to a voluntary 457 Plan.
RETIREE HEALTH SAVINGS ACCOUNT (RHS): $2,880 initial deposit provided upon completion of a two (2) year vesting period. After initial contribution, the City shall contribute $130 per month.
EMPLOYEE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM: Available to employees and dependents. Plan provides up to 3 counseling visits per incident, at City expense.
EDUCATIONAL INCENTIVE: Bachelor's degree pays in the amount of 2.5% of salary and Master's degree pays in the amount of 5% of salary.
BILINGUAL INCENTIVE LEAVE: Employees who pass a review panel and are needed in this capacity by the department, will receive 3 hours of Bilingual Leave Time per pay period into their Compensatory Time Off (CTO) balance.
UNIFORM AND UNIFORM ALLOWANCE PROGRAM: is provided for some positions.
ANNUAL PHYSICAL EXAM is provided for some positions.
LONGEVITY PAY: 2.5% of salary at 10 years of service.
SECTION 125 PLAN: Providing for pre-tax deductions for employee-paid health premium and dependent care costs.
01
I understand that in order for my application to receive every consideration in the selection process, I must complete the following Supplemental Questions. I understand these responses must match the information I provide in the Work Experience and Education sections of my application. I certify that all information provided on this application and the Supplemental Questions is true to the best of my knowledge.
This classification is eligible for Veteran's Preference. Do you wish to claim Veteran's Preference? To qualify you must submit the Veteran's Preference Form and DD214 by 5:00 pm on the final filing date. These documents can be submitted to the Human Resources Department by e-mail to hr@modestogov.com, by fax to (209) 571-5813, or by mail to P.O. Box 642, Modesto, CA 95353 (must be received by final filing date.)
Do you possess a high school diploma or GED equivalent?
How many months of clerical experience do you possess?
Please Rate Your Level Of Expertise In Microsoft Word:
Please Rate Your Level Of Expertise In Microsoft Excel:
Please Rate Your Level Of Expertise In Microsoft Outlook:
The City of Modesto is on the lookout for an upbeat, organized Administrative Office Assistant I/II who loves keeping things running smoothly. From greeting visitors with a smile to mastering mail, records, and all the little details that make an office hum, you’ll be at the center of the action. If you’ve got six months of clerical experience and a high school diploma or GED, come join us and help keep Modesto’s departments shining!
Upcoming Salary Increases And Incentives:
3�fective 7/1/2026
2.5% Education Incentive - Bachelor's Degree
5% Education Incentive - Master's Degree
The Administrative Office Assistant I/II is responsible to provide a variety of routine to moderately difficult office support to various City departments and offices, including but not limited to, processing and handling of mail, record keeping, specialized processing related to the department in which assigned, typing, word processing, telephone and in-person reception, and filing.
Application Process:
Applicants will be assessed on the application submitted. Due to the volume of applications received, resumes will not be screened for the purpose of determining who is the most qualified to compete in the testing process. It is the applicant's responsibility to fill out the "Education" and "Work Experience" section of the application with complete information and adequate detail. Do not substitute any part of the application with the words "SEE RESUME".
The following information is provided for use as a reference and as a planning tool. Human Resources is unable to schedule make-up examinations. Applicants considered to be the most qualified will be invited to continue in the testing process. The Human Resources Department reserves the right to revise the testing process to best meet the needs of the City.
Tentative Testing Schedule
Online exam
April 22, 2026 - April 28, 2026
The City of Modesto is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to fostering, cultivating and preserving a culture of diversity, equity and inclusion.
Essential And Marginal Function Statements
Essential and other important responsibilities and duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:
Essential Functions:
Perform a variety of office support and general clerical duties related to the work unit.
Process correspondence, reports, forms, and specialized documents related to the functions of the organizational unit to which assigned from drafts, notes, dictated tapes, or brief instructions.
Proofread and check typed and other materials for accuracy, completeness, compliance with departmental policies, and correct English usage including grammar, punctuation, and spelling.
Enter, retrieve and process data, and generate reports using computer systems, following established formats.
Gather information from individuals or reference sources to complete and process various routine forms, records, and applications; and contact individuals to obtain additional information.
Maintain records and process and translate forms, such as time records, purchase requisitions and orders, reservation of City pool vehicles, service contract payments, refunds, and others specific to the organizational unit.
May process and generate fund transfers, checks, and invoices.
Post and transcribe data, prepare, and update a variety of reports.
Perform a variety of routine arithmetical calculations.
Establish and maintain office files, and research and compile information from such files.
Act as receptionist and receive and screen visitors and telephone calls, take messages, and make appointments; provide directions and basic information and assistance.
Provide information regarding City or unit activities and functions.
Perform such office support activities as opening and distributing mail, processing outgoing mail, operating a postage meter, and ordering office supplies.
Build and maintain positive working relationships with co-workers, other City employees, and the public using principles of good customer service.
Observe and maintain a safe working environment in compliance with established safety programs and procedures.
Marginal Functions:
Perform related duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications
Administrative Office Assistant I
Knowledge Of:
Basic practices and procedures of filing systems.
Correct English usage, including spelling, grammar, and punctuation.
Office procedures, methods, and equipment including computers and applicable software applications such as word processing, spreadsheets, and databases.
Ability To:
Learn specialized processing, procedures, and office support tasks related to the
department to which assigned.
Understand and carry out oral and written instructions.
Maintain accurate records and files.
Make accurate arithmetic calculations.
Depending on assignment, accurately perform basic clerical work.
Type and perform word-processing at a speed necessary for successful job performance.
Multi-task and maintain attention to detail with frequent interruptions.
Communicate tactfully and effectively with the public, remain calm, and follow designated protocols in stressful and/or emergency situations.
Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
Operate office equipment including computers and supporting word processing, spreadsheet, and database applications.
Experience And Training Guidelines:
Any combination of experience and training that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required knowledge and abilities would be:
Experience:
Six months of general clerical experience.
Training:
High School diploma or GED equivalency.
License And Certificate:
Depending upon assignment, a valid California driver’s license may be required.
Administrative Office Assistant II
In addition to the qualifications for the Administrative Office Assistant I:
Knowledge Of:
Business letter writing and standard formats for typed materials.
Policies, procedures, processes, and forms related to the department to which assigned.
Ability To:
Organize and maintain office files and records.
Compose routine correspondence from brief instructions.
Use initiative and sound independent judgment within established guidelines.
Prioritize work and coordinate several activities simultaneously.
Proofread various documents to maintain accuracy.
Experience:
Eighteen months of general clerical experience.
or
One year of experience with the City of Modesto as an Administrative Office Assistant I with the City of Modesto.
License And Certificate:
Depending upon assignment, a valid California driver’s license may be required.
Physical And Mental Requirements
Mobility: frequent use of keyboard; frequent sitting for long periods of time; occasional bending or squatting. Lifting: frequently up to 10 pounds; occasionally up to 25 pounds. Vision: constant use of overall vision; frequent reading and close-up work; occasional color and depth vision. Dexterity: frequent repetitive motion; frequent writing; frequent grasping, holding, and reaching. Hearing/Talking: frequent hearing and talking, in person and on the phone. Emotional/Psychological: frequent decision making and concentration; frequent public and/or coworker contact; occasional working alone. Environmental: frequent exposure to noise.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Work is performed in a typical temperature-controlled office environment subject to typical office noise and environment. Some positions may be assigned to remote locations. Positions may require occasional overtime and weekend work and travel is rare.
Modesto City Employee Association (MCEA)
Employee benefits are subject to change and are not guaranteed. For a detailed explanation of benefits currently in effect please see the Memoranda of Understanding.
PUBLIC EMPLOYEES' RETIREMENT SYSTEM: CalPERS enrollment in either the 2% @ 60 or the 2% @ 62 formula is dependent on eligibility, as per AB 340. Employee pays the full member contribution. Retirement benefit is based on the employees three year final compensation average. The City does not participate in Social Security except for the required 1.45% Medicare contribution by both the City and the employee (applies to employees hired after 4-1-86).
HOLIDAYS: 12 paid holidays per year plus 8 hours of holiday credit.
VACATION: Accrual normally begins at a rate of two weeks per year, with incremental increases to five weeks at 21 years of service. Employees may accumulate up to twice their annual accrual.
SICK LEAVE: Accumulated at 8 hours per month, 96 hours per year. Employees may accumulate up to 2,100 hours.
MEDICAL INSURANCE: Health, dental and vision coverage is provided. The City's monthly contribution to health, dental and vision benefits is based on a three-tier system as follows:
$ 2,110.00 Employee Family
$ 1,494.00 Employee 1 Dependent
$ 748.00 Employee Only
$ 450.00 Opt Out
The employee pays the balance. An employee who opts out of health coverage receives the amount noted above minus dental and vision premium on their paycheck and treated as taxable income. Dental and vision coverage continuation is available upon retirement.
LIFE INSURANCE: Coverage in the amount of $20,000 is provided by the City. Supplemental coverage is available at employee cost.
DISABILITY INSURANCE: coverage is provided by the City, at City cost. This benefit pays 66 2/3% of the first $12,000 per month in salary.
DEFERRED COMPENSATION: With a matching contribution by the employee, the City will contribute 1% of salary, (increasing to 2% after 15 years of service) to a voluntary 457 Plan.
RETIREE HEALTH SAVINGS ACCOUNT (RHS): $2,880 initial deposit provided upon completion of a two (2) year vesting period. After initial contribution, the City shall contribute $130 per month.
EMPLOYEE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM: Available to employees and dependents. Plan provides up to 3 counseling visits per incident, at City expense.
EDUCATIONAL INCENTIVE: Bachelor's degree pays in the amount of 2.5% of salary and Master's degree pays in the amount of 5% of salary.
BILINGUAL INCENTIVE LEAVE: Employees who pass a review panel and are needed in this capacity by the department, will receive 3 hours of Bilingual Leave Time per pay period into their Compensatory Time Off (CTO) balance.
UNIFORM AND UNIFORM ALLOWANCE PROGRAM: is provided for some positions.
ANNUAL PHYSICAL EXAM is provided for some positions.
LONGEVITY PAY: 2.5% of salary at 10 years of service.
SECTION 125 PLAN: Providing for pre-tax deductions for employee-paid health premium and dependent care costs.
01
I understand that in order for my application to receive every consideration in the selection process, I must complete the following Supplemental Questions. I understand these responses must match the information I provide in the Work Experience and Education sections of my application. I certify that all information provided on this application and the Supplemental Questions is true to the best of my knowledge.
- Yes
This classification is eligible for Veteran's Preference. Do you wish to claim Veteran's Preference? To qualify you must submit the Veteran's Preference Form and DD214 by 5:00 pm on the final filing date. These documents can be submitted to the Human Resources Department by e-mail to hr@modestogov.com, by fax to (209) 571-5813, or by mail to P.O. Box 642, Modesto, CA 95353 (must be received by final filing date.)
- Yes
- No
Do you possess a high school diploma or GED equivalent?
- Yes
- No
How many months of clerical experience do you possess?
- No experience
- 0 - 6 months
- 6 - 12 months
- More than 12 months
Please Rate Your Level Of Expertise In Microsoft Word:
- No experience
- Basic
- Intermediate
- Advanced
- Expert
Please Rate Your Level Of Expertise In Microsoft Excel:
- No experience
- Basic
- Intermediate
- Advanced
- Expert
Please Rate Your Level Of Expertise In Microsoft Outlook:
- No experience
- Basic
- Intermediate
- Advanced
- Expert
- Required Question
Salary : $130 - $12,000