Word Processors and Typists

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 you'd actually do

• Perform other clerical duties, such as answering telephone, sorting and distributing mail, running errands or sending faxes.
• Check completed work for spelling, grammar, punctuation, and format.
• File and store completed documents on computer hard drive or disk, or maintain a computer filing system to store, retrieve, update, and delete documents.
• Print and make copies of work.
• Transmit work electronically to other locations.
• Address envelopes or prepare envelope labels, using typewriter or computer.

How you get there

Typical entry-level education: High school diploma. Overall preparation: some preparation (Job Zone 2 of 5).

The feel of the work

The work is mostly indoors; precision matters — small details carry weight. (Compared against the other 818 careers in the guide.)

Working for yourself

About 7.5% of word processors and typists are self-employed.

Who it tends to fit

This work tends to fit people who are organized and detail-focused.

Related careers

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• Court, Municipal, and License Clerks

Quick questions

How much does a word processors and typist make?

The median pay is $23.69 per hour — roughly $49,500 a year, with the real range running from about $17.70/hr (10th percentile) to $31.32/hr (90th percentile). Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Do you need a degree to be a word processors and typist?

The typical entry-level education is: High school diploma. Overall preparation level: some preparation (Job Zone 2 of 5).

What does a word processors and typist actually do all day?

Perform other clerical duties, such as answering telephone, sorting and distributing mail, running errands or sending faxes. Check completed work for spelling, grammar, punctuation, and format. File and store completed documents on computer hard drive or disk, or maintain a computer filing system to store, retrieve, update, and delete documents.