A clerk typist is someone who works in an office setting, such as preparing letters and other documents. He or she uses a typewriter, word processor, or computer to convert rough written materials or dictated information into a finished format. Clerk typists perform many of the same tasks as administrative assistants or secretaries; however, the specific tasks they perform will vary depending on the employer. Different levels of clerk typist exist in some companies, each with a higher pay rate.
Basic order form, memo, and letter preparation may be required in a Level I clerk typist position that requires no prior experience or education but pays near the minimum wage. A higher-paying Level II job may necessitate the ability to type a certain minimum number of words per minute (wpm) — usually 60 or more. Typing speeds of 40 words per minute are possible in a Level I position. Special subject knowledge, prior experience, or even an associate’s degree may be required for a Level III or higher position.
The majority of clerk typist jobs only require a high school diploma or equivalent. The most important qualification is the ability to type quickly and accurately. Clerk typists must have excellent grammar, punctuation, and spelling skills in order to achieve the level of accuracy required in professional offices. Despite the fact that many memos, letters, and other office documents are now typed using a keyboard and computer, spelling-checking software has its limitations. While most programs will clearly show misspelled words, they will not highlight those that are spelled correctly but used incorrectly in a sentence; as a result, the typist must be able to check his or her own work thoroughly.
Many offices will give applicants who want to work as clerk typists a typing test. Clerk typist jobs, especially the higher-paying ones, can become extremely competitive as a result of this practice. Clerk typists may do some filing and other office duties in addition to typing rough paperwork and dictation into polished pieces.
Unless a clerical typist position pays exceptionally well and/or is labeled as a junior writing position, the employee should not be required to write letters, articles, or reports from scratch. Typists may edit documents, but they are not writers. Businesses, particularly smaller businesses, may try to hire a clerk typist to do the work of a writer for a lower wage.
A clerk typist can assist a writer transcribing the author’s rough drafts into a finished manuscript. Some clerk typists work as virtual office assistants or for writers from their homes. A virtual office assistant uses a computer to perform administrative tasks remotely. Clerk typists typically have at least several years of experience as full-time office employees before working from home for clients on a regular basis.