How Much Does a Senior Administrative Assistant Make? (2025)
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), senior administrative assistant jobs in the US are expected to grow only 1% from 2023 to 2033. This figure is slower than the national average for all occupations, but it corresponds to an estimated 367,500 job openings every year for senior administrative assistants.
Salary.com reports that the average annual salary for senior administrative assistants in the United States in 2025 is $62,953. This salary guide provides a comprehensive overview of salaries, job descriptions, FAQs, and job expectations for senior administrative assistants.
What Does a Senior Administrative Assistant Do?
Senior administrative assistants play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth operation of offices and organizations. They typically manage complex scheduling, coordinate communication between departments, prepare reports and presentations, and oversee administrative projects.
In addition, they often supervise junior administrative staff, handle confidential information, and serve as a key liaison between executives and other employees or external contacts. These professionals are skilled in multitasking and problem-solving, often anticipating the needs of executives and proactively addressing potential issues.
Senior administrative assistants also manage office supplies, coordinate meetings and travel arrangements, and may assist in budget tracking or event planning. Below are the top industries where senior administrative assistants are commonly employed:
- Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services
- Government
- Religious, Grantmaking, Civic, Professional, and Similar Organizations
- Educational Services (State, Local, and Private)
- Healthcare and Social Assistance
A high school diploma or equivalent is typically required, but many senior administrative assistants hold an associate or bachelor's degree, especially in business administration or related fields. Proficiency in office software (such as Microsoft Office Suite), strong communication skills, and prior administrative experience are essential.
Certifications like the Certified Administrative Professional (CAP) credential can significantly enhance job prospects and demonstrate professional expertise.
What is the Senior Administrative Assistant Salary Overview?
The average salary for senior administrative assistants in the United States in 2025 is $62,953 per year, according to Salary.com. A senior administrative assistant’s salary ranges from $50,783 to $76,594 per year. The average salary per month is $5,246.
Senior administrative assistants earn an average of $30 per hour, with hourly rates ranging from $24 to $37. Moreover, the average salary for senior administrative assistants per week is $1,211, with weekly pay ranging from $977 to $1,473.
2025 Senior Administrative Assistant Salary: $62,953 ($30 per hour)
Meanwhile, the median core compensation for a senior administrative assistant is $67,713 per year, including salary and bonuses, and varies depending on the percentile.
| Percentile | Salary + Bonus |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $53,461 |
| 25th Percentile | $60,253 |
| 50th Percentile | $67,713 |
| 75th Percentile | $75,993 |
| 90th Percentile | $83,532 |
On the other hand, the average total compensation for senior administrative assistants in the US is $97,434 according to the Salary.com report. The total compensation package includes benefits like healthcare ($8,352), time off ($8,334), and Social Security ($5,180), which make up 22.5% of the total compensation.
| Core Compensation | ||
|---|---|---|
| Median | % of Total | |
| Base Salary | $62,953 | 64.6% |
| Bonus | $4,760 | 4.9% |
| Value of Benefits | ||
| Social Security | $5,180 | 5.3% |
| 401K/403B | $2,844 | 2.9% |
| Disability | $1,354 | 1.4% |
| Healthcare | $8,352 | 8.6% |
| Pension | $3,657 | 3.8% |
| Time Off | $8,334 | 8.6% |
| Total Compensation | $97,434 | 100% |
What Can Affect Senior Administrative Assistant Salaries?
Various factors such as experience level, geographic location, education, and skills can significantly influence senior administrative assistant salaries. Below is a breakdown of key salary components:
By Experience Level
Over time, senior administrative assistant salaries are expected to grow in line with work experience. Salary.com data shows that entry-level senior administrative assistants with less than one year of experience earn an average salary of $59,354.
In contrast, experienced senior administrative assistants working for eight or more years, considered expert-level professionals, can expect to earn an average salary of $66,719.
| Levels | Salary |
|---|---|
| Entry Level Senior Administrative Assistant | $59,354 |
| Intermediate Level Senior Administrative Assistant | $59,831 |
| Senior Level Senior Administrative Assistant | $61,069 |
| Specialist Level Senior Administrative Assistant | $62,973 |
| Expert Level Senior Administrative Assistant | $66,719 |
By Geographic Location
A senior administrative assistant’s average salary in the United States may vary by geographic location due to key factors like cost of living, the local economy, and industry presence.
Among the hot cities in the United States, San Francisco reports the highest senior administrative assistant salary at $70,663 while Miami and Dallas reflect lower median salaries at $55,873 and $54,363, respectively.
| Cities | 25th Percentile | 50th Percentile | 75th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, California | $70,663 | $78,623 | $87,533 |
| Washington, District of Columbia | $62,643 | $69,703 | $77,603 |
| Miami, Florida | $54,363 | $60,483 | $67,343 |
| Chicago, Illinois | $58,473 | $65,053 | $72,433 |
| Boston, Massachusetts | $63,103 | $70,213 | $78,173 |
| New York, New York | $65,573 | $72,953 | $81,223 |
| Dallas, Texas | $55,873 | $62,163 | $69,213 |
By Skills
Gaining sought-after skills is also an effective way to increase senior administrative assistant salaries and unlock more career opportunities. The Real-time Job Posting Salary Data Report indicates that the most in-demand senior administrative assistant skills are administrative support and presentation software with 45.34% and 18.81%, respectively.
Meanwhile, essential skills such as presentation software and program management can increase senior administrative assistant salaries by 8.25% and 7.94%, respectively. The table below includes more in-demand skills for senior administrative assistants and their respective influence on salary:
| Skills | Demand (%) | Salary (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Presentation Software | 18.81% | +8.25% |
| Program Management | 2.74% | +7.94% |
| Proofreading | 4.24% | +7.86% |
| Procurement | 6.10% | +7.32% |
| Calendaring | 6.65% | +6.38% |
| Database Management | 2.88% | +5.42% |
How to Become a Senior Administrative Assistant?
Senior administrative assistants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, though many employers prefer candidates with an associate or bachelor's degree in business administration or related fields. Gaining relevant work experience and professional certifications can also be a huge plus.
To pursue a career and increase earning potential as a senior administrative assistant, focus on developing the following key areas:
- Acquire important core qualities: Senior administrative assistants are expected to have strong organizational, communication, multitasking, and problem-solving skills. Attention to detail and proficiency in office software such as Microsoft Office are essential.
- Earn a degree or certification: While not always required, completing an associate or bachelor's degree in business administration or a related field can open more opportunities. Professional certifications like the Certified Administrative Professional (CAP) credential further demonstrate expertise and commitment.
- Expand work experience: Gaining experience in administrative roles such as administrative assistant, receptionist, or office clerk is critical. With further experience and skill development, senior administrative assistants can advance to executive assistant, office manager, or other leadership positions.
- Explore related work environments: Immersing yourself in industries where senior administrative assistants commonly work such as corporate offices, healthcare, education, government, and legal firms can provide valuable insights and networking opportunities.
What are the FAQs for Senior Administrative Assistants?
Here are some common questions about the senior administrative assistant pay:
What does a senior administrative assistant do?
Senior administrative assistants are primarily responsible for managing complex administrative tasks that support executives and organizational operations. They coordinate communication, organize schedules, and ensure the efficient flow of information within the office. Senior administrative assistants typically do the following tasks:
- Manage calendars, schedule meetings, and coordinate travel arrangements for executives and teams.
- Prepare, edit, and proofread correspondence, reports, presentations, and other documents.
- Serve as a liaison between executives, staff, clients, and external partners to facilitate communication.
- Oversee office operations, including ordering supplies, maintaining records, and supervising junior administrative staff.
- Organize and coordinate special projects, events, and meetings to ensure smooth execution.
What is the highest salary for a senior administrative assistant?
A senior administrative assistant’s salary may vary depending on his education, skills, experience, and geographic location. For instance, a senior administrative assistant based in San Francisco, California, earns an average salary of $78,623. On the other hand, a senior administrative assistant based in the city of Dallas, Texas only earns an average of $62,163.
Are senior administrative assistants in demand?
No. BLS reported that senior administrative assistant jobs are forecasted to grow by only 1% from 2023 to 2033. Over that period, 367,500 job openings are expected to be produced in the US.
How much does a senior administrative assistant make in the US?
Salary.com reports that the average annual salary for senior administrative assistants in the US is $62,953 or $30 per hour.
