Executive assistant (EA) jobs have evolved far beyond basic scheduling and admin tasks. Top-performing EAs are strategic partners who help executives operate at peak performance. Before adding one of these specialists to your team, you’ll need to consider what kind of compensation aligns with their diverse responsibilities.
Discover how to determine an executive assistant's salary based on factors like average earnings and skill sets. You’ll also learn how Athena Assistants redefine what high-level executive support looks like.
What does an executive assistant do?
An executive assistant is an employee or freelancer who supports senior executives. Top EAs anticipate needs before they arise, solve problems, and act as liaisons when company leaders aren’t available.
You can trust quality EAs with confidential company information and strategic tasks. They’re highly independent and exercise judgment that aligns with the executive’s goals and leadership style. This level of autonomy makes EAs true strategic partners rather than just administrative resources.
Executive assistant vs. administrative assistant
While both administrative assistants (AAs) and EAs provide essential support, their day-to-day functions and level of involvement in strategic work can vary significantly. Here are a few differences:
- AAs typically handle broader office tasks for entire departments or multiple team members. Duties can include scheduling meetings, handling correspondence, and organizing files. Because their work is less specialized, an AA's salary is often lower than an EA’s.
- EAs work with senior leadership, often supporting one high-level executive or a small group of decision-makers. Among other tasks, they manage complex calendars, oversee confidential projects, and prepare executive-level presentations.
How much do executive assistants make?
In the United States, an EA’s salary averages around $65,000 annually. But this number can vary widely depending on the worker’s experience, location, and company involvement. Entry-level assistants may earn closer to $53,000, while senior executive assistant salaries can range between $87,000–125,000.
While many EAs work in person, virtual assistant jobs are becoming more common. Remote executive assistant salaries range widely, between $69,000–108,000. Variations depend on local costs of living, experience, and technical expertise.
How much value does an EA bring?
Considering all the ways effective EAs support leaders, the return on investment is substantial. EAs take on time-sucking tasks like managing schedules and preparing documents, giving you back upwards of eight hours per week. This creates more space for strategic thinking, leading to business growth.
Athena Assistants take this caliber of support even further. Unlike a standard virtual assistant, Athena Assistants undergo a rigorous selection and onboarding experience. Their advanced training helps them think strategically, solve problems proactively, and align closely with your long-term goals. They become an integrated partner in your success, offering structure and informed guidance.
13 factors to consider when determining an EA’s salary
Several things affect how much an EA can expect to earn. Here’s a closer look at what to consider when hiring a prospective EA:
- Level of executive support required: Supporting a C-suite executive or founder often demands more responsibility and discretion, usually with higher pay than other support roles like AAs or secretaries.
- Depth of experience: Assistants with years of experience are more likely to earn a higher wage due to their proven ability to manage complex tasks.
- Engagement type (fractional vs. full-time support): Full-time EAs typically earn more than those providing part-time or project-based assistance.
- Employment model (W2 vs. 1099): W2 employees receive benefits and paid time off as part of their total compensation, which can increase company costs. 1099 contractors often set their own rates, so the price of working with an independent contractor varies widely.
- Geographic location: Salaries change depending on the cost of living in the assistant’s location. For instance, the average salary for an executive assistant in top-paying cities like New York and Seattle will likely differ significantly from someone working remotely from a rural area.
- Work arrangement (remote or on-site): On-site roles in major metropolitan areas often command higher salaries, while remote EA pay ranges may be more flexible and location-dependent.
- Industry sector: Specific industries, such as tech, finance, and legal, tend to pay more due to the complexity and pace of work.
- Position title and scope: An entry-level EA has less experience and often fewer duties. So, they make less than senior EAs, whose salary reflects their increased responsibility, oversight, and leadership.
- Professional background and track record: A proven history of supporting high-level executives or managing key operations can lead to higher compensation.
- Professional certifications: Industry-specific credentials demonstrate specialized skills and can justify a higher rate.
- Educational qualifications: A degree in formal business administration, communications, or operations training may influence starting salary.
- Technical skill set: Proficiency in advanced tools like customer relationship management software, project management platforms, or data analysis software can increase an EA’s market value.
- Language skills or global experience: Being bilingual or working across international job markets may provide an edge in global organizations.
Executive assistant vs. Athena Assistants
While traditional EAs offer leaders valuable support, Athena Assistants take on a more active role, acting as partners in your personal and professional growth. Our assistants exceed expectations in the following areas:
- Selection process and training: Out of 30,000 monthly applicants, only 1% become Athena Assistants. From there, assistants undergo an in-depth training program and receive ongoing coaching sessions for continuous improvement.
- Alignment and onboarding: Based on detailed assessments and advanced matching technology, we pair you with assistants who meet your needs best. Before working together, you’ll meet your assistant and complete a guided onboarding process. This puts you on the same page from day one.
- High-level support: Athena Assistants are forward-thinking and support your long-term ambitions. They can lead projects and build systems, so you’re free to do what you do best.
With an Athena Assistant, you can tap into a level of productivity and efficiency you never thought possible.
Get started with an Athena Assistant
Athena’s high-end assistants are the hidden superpower behind elite founders, top investors, and world-class leaders. They anticipate needs so you can focus on work that drives change.
When you work with Athena, you’re joining a network of high performers who understand intentional delegation and execution. Our assistants are carefully selected, rigorously trained, and deeply invested in helping you achieve your goals.
Whether you need part-time or full-time support, Athena will match you with someone who aligns with your working style, priorities, and pace.
Get started today.
FAQ
Do you need a degree to be an executive assistant?
Companies won’t always require EAs to have an education beyond a high school diploma. But it’s becoming more common for EAs to earn bachelor’s degrees in fields like business administration and management.
Can you make six figures as an executive assistant?
Yes, although the six-figure salary range for this role isn’t as common. High earners typically have several years of experience in the field and live in high-cost-of-living areas like Los Angeles and New York.
Is EA to CEO a good role?
Yes, assisting a CEO can be an excellent role. Here are some of the top benefits:
- Skill development: EAs learn multiple transferable skills, including communication, collaboration, and time management.
- Company insights: EAs assist CEOs closely, which gives assistants a firsthand look at business data and project plans. This understanding is invaluable for those seeking a future leadership position.
- Earning and growth potential: EAs have a high earning potential, especially those who have years of experience or work for profitable businesses. And because of their exposure to advanced business decisions, EAs are well prepared for growth beyond these roles.