Word Processors and Typists

People in this career spend their days working with computers to type and format various materials, including forms, reports, and letters. They transcribe information from corrected copies, rough drafts, or voice recordings, which requires strong reading comprehension, active listening, and writing skills. Beyond typing, they perform administrative activities, document information, and process data.

This role fits well for individuals with conventional interests who appreciate structured, detail-oriented tasks. Daily success depends on work styles like dependability, cooperation, and attention to detail. Typists must communicate effectively with supervisors, colleagues, and individuals outside the organization. They utilize knowledge of the English language, administrative procedures, and customer service to keep office operations running smoothly. Managing time and prioritizing tasks are also essential to meet document preparation deadlines.

Entering this field typically requires a high school diploma. Most workers need some on-the-job training or previous experience to become proficient, which aligns with the O*NET Job Zone 2 classification for careers needing some preparation.

Students interested in this path often pursue specific college majors, such as business operations support and assistant services, or data entry and microcomputer applications. These programs help build the necessary computer, administrative, and keyboarding skills. This career is also known by several other titles, including clerk typist, document processor, data transcriber, and dictaphone typist.

The median annual pay for word processors and typists is $49,280. The lowest 10 percent of earners make less than $36,810, while the highest 10 percent earn more than $65,150.

This occupation employs 35,010 people, but opportunities are shrinking. Employment is projected to decline by -34.4% from 2025 to 2035. Despite this decline, about 1,900 openings are still projected to occur each year.