Reception and Office Administrator

About Tempo Based in San Diego, California, Tempo develops thermochemical energy storage (TCES) systems designed for energy-intensive industries. The platform enables industrial operators to shift energy use over time by sourcing power when it is most cost-effective and enables the electrification of high-temperature industrial heat at a cost advantage to using fossil fuels. By storing electricity thermochemically, the system delivers a continuous stream of combustion-free, high-temperature air at up to 1,200°C. Tempo is backed by leading climate and energy investors, including Breakthrough Energy Ventures, Khosla Ventures, and Prelude Ventures. For more information, visit www.tempoenergy.com . Job Description We are seeking a dynamic and resourceful Reception & Office Administrator to join our rapidly growing startup. As we develop cutting-edge products for our thermochemical energy storage systems in our engineering and research facilities, we need someone who can keep our team and our day-to-day operations running smoothly and efficiently.  This is a vital multi-faceted role. You will be the face of the company at the front desk while simultaneously acting as the administrative engine for our leadership team. The ideal candidate is a master of first impressions who is equally comfortable managing complex travel itineraries, scheduling high-priority meetings, and ensuring our engineering facility runs smoothly. Key Responsibilities Serve as the primary point of contact for all visitors and deliveries. Maintain a professional, organized, and welcoming reception area while directing guests to the appropriate host. Provide direct administrative assistance to the leadership team, including managing calendars, proactively scheduling internal/external meetings, and coordinating complex domestic and international travel arrangements. Coordinate meeting logistics, including room booking (virtual/physical) and required technology. Take ownership of ordering and coordinating catering for office lunches, team events, and board meetings. Assist People Operations in company events and team building organization, taking the lead and ownership in maintaining process from start to finish once kicked off by tracking budget, logistics, and other critical moving pieces. In charge of keeping the office and breakroom fully stocked. This includes proactively monitoring and ordering office supplies, snacks, coffee, and beverages while ensuring cost-effective purchasing. Maintain mailroom duties: receiving and mailing out office related mail/packages that are G&A related (does not pertain to production or manufacturing). Maintain mailroom cleanliness and ensure general office supplies are always in stock and available for employees to access. Act as the main point of contact for our cleaning crew and other facility vendors to ensure the office, lab-support areas, and common spaces are maintained to a high standard. Oversee maintenance for all office equipment (printers, copiers, etc.). Assist with accurate and timely processing of expense reports and maintaining digital filing systems. Requirements/Qualifications 3+ years of experience in a front office, reception, or administrative role, preferably within a startup or technical environment. Ability to lift up to 25 lbs. Proven ability to manage a busy front desk while staying focused on detailed administrative tasks like travel and scheduling. Strong organizational skills with a high attention to detail regarding inventory management and office cleanliness. High proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Word, Excel) and experience using digital tools for scheduling and travel booking. High proficiency in Google suite and Slack and experience using cloud-based platforms and services. Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to interact professionally with investors, board members, and staff. A self-starter who identifies office needs before they become problems and works well with minimal supervision. Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration or a related field preferred Compensation Range  The US base salary range for this full-time position is $68,000 to $71,000 + equity and benefits. Our salary ranges are determined by role, level, and location. Within the range, individual pay is determined by additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, location, and relevant education or training.  Please note that the compensation details listed in US role postings reflect the base salary only, and do not include equity or benefits . Physical Demands Sitting and standing: Extended periods at a desk performing computer-based design, simulation, and documentation work, balanced with time at a lab bench or in the shop during hardware build and testing Lifting and carrying : Lift and carry equipment, test fixtures, or hardware assemblies up to 50 lbs.; heavier items handled with mechanical assistance or team lift Hand dexterity: Frequent use of hands for assembly, fabrication, instrumentation hookup, and operation of test and shop equipment Visual acuity: Ability to read engineering drawings, inspect hardware, and identify dimensional and surface quality features during fabrication and testing PPE compliance: Ability to wear and work effectively in required personal protective equipment, including safety glasses, heat-resistant gloves, safety shoes, and other appropriate gear in high-temperature lab and shop environments Safety acumen: Demonstrated understanding of lab and shop safety protocols, including hazard recognition and risk mitigation in environments involving high-temperature equipment, energized systems, and fabrication machinery Travel: Occasional travel (estimated <5%) for tool or material pickup Working at Tempo Tempo is a lean organization working on exciting challenges, and the people who thrive here share a few things in com