Offices everywhere, whether they’re in a school, a government agency, or a hospital, rely on office clerks to help keep them running. General office clerks perform a variety of clerical tasks from answering telephones to typing documents and filing records. Rather than performing a single specialized task, these clerks have responsibilities that change with the needs of the employer… their duties may even change daily. Some clerks enter data into computers or use software applications to perform other tasks. They also frequently use a variety of office equipment such as photocopiers, scanners, and fax machines. A clerk’s specific duties depend on the office they work in. For example, a general office clerk at a college or university may process college applications while a clerk at a hospital may file and retrieve medical records. Most clerks work in an office setting full time, but part-time positions are not uncommon. Office clerks usually learn their skills while on the job. Their training typically lasts around one month and may include instructions on office equipment, procedures, and proper phone etiquette. Most office clerks need a high school diploma or equivalent. For those who aren’t familiar with word processing and spreadsheet software, computer courses may be helpful
What they do:
Operate one or more of a variety of office machines, such as photocopying, photographic, and duplicating machines, or other office machines.
On the job, you would:
Read job orders to determine the type of work to be done, the quantities to be produced, and the materials needed.
Deliver completed work.
Place original copies in feed trays, feed originals into feed rolls, or position originals on tables beneath camera lenses.
Arts and Humanities
English language
Business
customer service
Manufactured or Agricultural Goods
manufacture and distribution of products
Engineering and Technology
computers and electronics
Basic Skills
reading work related information
keeping track of how well people and/or groups are doing in order to make improvements
Problem Solving
noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it
Verbal
read and understand what is written
communicate by speaking
Hand and Finger Use
keep your arm or hand steady
People interested in this work like activities that include practical, hands-on problems and solutions.
They do well at jobs that need:
Attention to Detail
Dependability
Adaptability/Flexibility
Cooperation
Integrity
Independence
You might use software like this on the job:
Data base user interface and query software
Data entry software
Microsoft Access
Spreadsheet software
Microsoft Excel
Electronic mail software
Microsoft Outlook
high school diploma/GED or bachelor's degree usually needed
Get started on your career:
New job opportunities are less likely in the future.
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