Travel Administrator Job Description
A travel administrator arranges, manages and coordinates all aspects of business travel to meet the specific needs of employers, employees and client within an organization. He or she typically completes most work on-site, but may be required to visit certain destinations either before or during scheduled trips to prevent or troubleshoot travel issues that arise. A travel administrator may also need to be ‘on-call’ beyond normal business hours in order to address any needs an employee or client may have in transit.
Job Duties
A travel administrator researches and books flights, ground transportation and hotel accommodations, and provides travelers with directions and destination information. Knowledge of relevant flight regulations and required travel documentation are a must. Because of the unpredictable nature of the transportation industry and the complex task of coordinating employee and client schedules with business deadlines, a travel administrator should be an exceptional organizer, communicator, multi-tasker and problem-solver.
In the office, a travel administrator creates detailed itineraries using programs such as Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook to meet employer-specific budgets and deadlines. He or she researches travel procedure and destination information on the Internet, creates and maintains relevant files and databases, and stays in constant communication with employees, customers and venues. An administrator works – oftentimes under pressure – with many different departments and varied clientele necessitating excellent interpersonal skills.
Job Requirements
Travel administrators should have prior experience in a related industry, such as recreational or business travel. Because the position requires proficiency in business management and budgeting as well as in travel procedures, certain employers prefer that a prospective employee have a business administration or relevant degree. A high school diploma is usually a prerequisite to a business degree.