Job Description: 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.
A Day in the Life of a Word Processor or Typist
- Print and make copies of work.
- Search for specific sets of stored, typed characters to make changes.
- Adjust settings for format, page layout, line spacing, and other style requirements.
- Reformat documents, moving paragraphs or columns.
- Compute and verify totals on report forms, requisitions, or bills, using adding machine or calculator.
- Gather, register, and arrange the material to be typed, following instructions.
When polled, Word Processors and Typists say the following skills are most frequently used in their jobs:
- Reading Comprehension: Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
- Active Listening: Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
- Writing: Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
- Speaking: Talking to others to convey information effectively.
- Time Management: Managing one’s own time and the time of others.
- Monitoring: Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
Related Job Titles for this Occupation
- Legal Transcriptionist
- Word Processing Machine Operator
- Notereader
Is There Going to be Demand for Word Processors and Typists?
In the United States, there were 74,900 jobs for Word Processor or Typist in 2016. There is little to no growth in job opportunities for Word Processor or Typist. There will be an estimated 4,500 positions for Word Processor or Typist per year.
The states with the most job growth for Word Processor or Typist are Maryland, Alaska, and Indiana. Watch out if you plan on working in Wyoming, North Dakota, or Montana. These states have the worst job growth for this type of profession.
Salary for a Word Processor or Typist
The average yearly salary of a Word Processor or Typist ranges between $27,070 and $58,090.
Word Processors and Typists who work in District of Columbia, Connecticut, or Alaska, make the highest salaries.
What Tools & Technology do Word Processors and Typists Use?
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Word
- Microsoft Office
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft Access
- Microsoft Visio
- Microsoft SharePoint
- IBM Notes
- Microsoft Publisher
- FileMaker Pro
- Oracle PeopleSoft
- Corel WordPerfect Office Suite