Receptionist

Where will you be working?

With over 4,000 students, HKU is the largest university of the arts in the Netherlands and one of the largest educational institutions in Europe focused on art, culture, and the creative industries. HKU offers a wide range of programs across nine schools.

HKU exists because creating art offers new perspectives, inspires thought-provoking interactions, and thereby gives shape and meaning to society and the challenges it faces. As HKU, we stand at the heart of that society and strive to be as diverse and inclusive as possible. Our success depends entirely on the quality and commitment of our people and the ideas they bring. That is why we are curious about your talent and how you can make a difference for our organization. 

HKU has 8 reception desks spread across various locations. The reception desk is part of the Services team (reception and service desk), which works closely with the Facilities Management team to provide support to the users of the various buildings. Day shifts are from 8:15 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. Evening shifts run from 4:00 or 4:30 PM to 10:30 PM. All locations are in the city of Utrecht: IBB-Laan, Rotsoord (PastoeFabriek), Nieuwekade, Oudenoord, Mariaplaats, and Janskerkhof.

What will you be doing?

• You will serve as the point of contact for all users of HKU buildings that have a reception desk. You will ensure that visitors are welcomed warmly, that students and faculty know where to go, and that no unauthorized guests enter the premises;
  
• You answer the phone, respond to questions, and transfer calls as needed;
  
• You provide users with the information they request, both verbally and in writing via email;
  
• You use digital scheduling systems to find out which classes are held in which rooms and answer questions about them;
  
• You handle (parcel) mail, lend out hand tools (at some locations), and are in charge of key distribution. 

What do you bring to the table?

• You have experience with administrative tasks and a proven track record in using computers and software;
  
• You have a strong command of the Dutch language, both spoken and written. You’re also comfortable with English; 
  
• A first aid certification or a willingness to obtain one in the near future;
  
• You can maintain a clear overview and have a proactive, flexible attitude; 
  
• You set priorities, stay calm, and can adapt quickly;
  
• You’re a natural at making connections, and you’re friendly and welcoming. You’re also able to step up when the situation calls for it: you assess what’s needed and act accordingly;
  
• You live in the immediate vicinity of the city of Utrecht.

What do we offer? 

• In accordance with the collective bargaining agreement for higher professional education, the gross monthly salary for full-time employment is in pay scale 5 (€2,697 to €3,616);
  
• The appointment is for one year, with the possibility of a one-year extension, subject to satisfactory performance; 
  
• Start date: as soon as possible / to be determined;
  
• Vacation pay (8%) and a year-end bonus of 8.3%;
  
• Time and resources to support your professional development, well-being, and long-term employability;
  
• A good pension plan, sports facilities, a Museum Card, parental leave, and much more.
  

Would you like more information and/or to apply? 

• If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Helma van de Veerdonk, Head of Services, at helma.vandeveerdonk@hku.nl. Please use this email address exclusively for asking questions.
  
• You can apply until Tuesday, April 7, by clicking the “Apply”button. 
  
• The first round of interviews will take place in week 16. The second round of interviews will take place in week 17. 

A cover letter is not required. However, we would like to receive your resume and your answers to the following questions, in your own words, so that we can get a good idea of what you bring to the table:

• What motivates you to apply for this position?
  
• Why are you applying to HKU?
  
• What is your experience working at a reception desk or front desk?
  
• What is your impression of reception work in the education sector? 

This position is being advertised both internally and externally. In the event of equal qualifications, internal candidates will be given priority. In our selection process, we recognize the value that diversity brings to our organization. Recruitment agencies are asked to refrain from contacting us regarding this position.