Word Processors and Typists

What this job is

Use word processor, computer, or typewriter to type letters, reports, forms, or other material from rough draft, corrected copy, or voice recording. May perform other clerical duties as assigned.

What they do day to day

• File and store completed documents on computer hard drive or disk, or maintain a computer filing system to store, retrieve, update, and delete documents.
• Transmit work electronically to other locations.
• Perform other clerical duties, such as answering telephone, sorting and distributing mail, running errands or sending faxes.
• Electronically sort and compile text and numerical data, retrieving, updating, and merging documents as required.
• Check completed work for spelling, grammar, punctuation, and format.
• Print and make copies of work.
• Search for specific sets of stored, typed characters to make changes.
• Address envelopes or prepare envelope labels, using typewriter or computer.
• Collate pages of reports and other documents.
• Reformat documents, moving paragraphs or columns.

Skills and knowledge that matter most

Importance rated by people working in the job (1 = not important, 5 = extremely important).

Education and preparation

Preparation level 2 of 5 — Some preparation. Usually a high school diploma; some previous work experience or training helps.

Typical entry education (BLS): High school diploma or equivalent.

Who this job suits

Based on the Holland (RIASEC) interest profile for this occupation.

Job titles you'll see in postings

Related careers

• Data Entry Keyers$41,340
• File Clerks$43,600
• Medical Transcriptionists$40,410
• Office Clerks, General$45,010
• Court Reporters and Simultaneous Captioners$72,420
• Proofreaders and Copy Markers$51,120
• Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks$50,670
• Office Machine Operators, Except Computer$40,960