Wilson Sonsini is the premier legal advisor to technology, life sciences, and other growth enterprises worldwide. We represent companies at every stage of development, from entrepreneurial start-ups to multibillion-dollar global corporations, as well as the venture firms, private equity firms, and investment banks that finance and advise them. The firm has approximately 1,100 attorneys in 17 offices: 13 in the U.S., two in China, and two in Europe. Our broad spectrum of practices and entrepreneurial spirit allow exceptional opportunities for professional achievement and career growth.
Under the direct supervision of the Office Administrator, the Receptionist serves as a key member of the Palo Alto office administrative team and is responsible for delivering exceptional reception, hospitality, and operational support to attorneys, staff, clients, and visitors. As one of the first points of contact for the firm, this role plays an integral part in fostering a professional, welcoming, and service-oriented environment while ensuring the smooth coordination of reception and office support functions. Key responsibilities include managing incoming calls through the firm’s Landis Attendant Console System for Microsoft Teams, directing callers appropriately, and providing backup coverage for front desk receptionists. While the role supports front desk operations, the majority of responsibilities are performed from the back office in support of daily reception and administrative responsibilities.
In partnership with the Office Administrator and broader office services teams, the Receptionist also provides overflow support for day-to-day office operations, including conference room reservations, hoteling office coordination, visitor check-in and escorting, and maintaining hospitality standards across meeting and common spaces. The role requires strong communication, organizational, and customer service skills, along with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced professional services environment.
This position is onsite Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
- 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, Café, 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.
- 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.
The primary location for this job posting is in Palo Alto. The actual base pay offered will depend upon a variety of factors, including but not limited to the selected candidate’s qualifications, years of relevant experience, level of education, professional certifications and licenses, and work location. The anticipated pay range for this position is as follows: $24.52 – $33.17 per hour.
The compensation for this position may include overtime and a discretionary year-end merit bonus based on performance. We offer a highly competitive salary and benefits package.
Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE).
