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Stenographers

THE JOB

STENOGRAPHERS take dictation in shorthand and then transcribe their notes 
on a typewriter or word processor.  Occasionally they may type directly from 
a dictating machine, using earphones to listen to a recorded voice. 
Dictation may include letters, legal documents, technical or statistical 
data, and other materials.  Stenographers are responsible for correct 
format, punctuation, capitalization, and spelling.  They are expected to 
distinguish between words or expressions that sound alike but are spelled 
differently and to use the dictionary for reference.  Time spent in 
stenographic work may vary, but in all cases it makes up an essential part 
of the job.

In addition to their stenographic duties, most Stenographers do some 
clerical tasks related to the operation of the office.  They may type a 
variety of materials from longhand copy, set up and maintain files, keep 
records up to date, and compile statistical or other reports based on these 
records.  They may also sort and distribute mail, compose routine letters, 
answer the telephone, and act as receptionist.  Experienced Stenographers 
may supervise other stenographic or clerical employees.  Some Stenographers 
specialize in particular fields such as medicine, engineering, or law.  They 
must be familiar with the technical terminology and the documents used in 
their specialty.


WORKING CONDITIONS

Stenographers work mainly in government (such as state, county, and city 
agencies), in hospitals, and education.  They may begin in a stenographic 
pool, working wherever they are needed.  More often they are assigned to one 
department and take dictation from one or more people in that department. 
Offices are usually well lit and pleasant but may be noisy and busy.  
Stenographers sometimes work under the pressure of deadlines and frequent 
interruptions.


EMPLOYMENT OUTLOOK

The following information is from the California Projections of Employment 
published by the Labor Market Information Division. 

Estimated number of workers in 1993               9,380
Estimated number of workers in 2005               9,070
Projected Growth 1993-2005                          -3%
Estimated openings due to separations by 2005     1,970

(These figures do not include self-employment or openings due to turnover.)

Despite employment declines in this occupation, qualified Stenographers 
will be needed to replace workers trained in specialized fields such as 
legal stenography and for those who have a broad range of clerical or 
secretarial skills.

At the present time, employers report a growing shortage of job applicants 
who can pass their basic typing, shorthand, and language tests.  Marginally 
skilled applicants may have difficulty finding work.


WAGES, HOURS, AND FRINGE BENEFITS

Salaries vary with experience, the location of the job, and the degree of 
responsibility or skill involved.  The median wage for Stenographers in 
California is $9.17.  The top salary for experienced and specialized 
Stenographers, including Supervising Stenographers, is $3,500 per month or 
more.

Stenographers usually work from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through 
Friday. Fringe benefits include paid vacations, holidays and sick leave, 
medical and dental insurance, and a pension plan.


ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS AND TRAINING

Proficiency in typing and shorthand and a working knowledge of English 
grammar, vocabulary, spelling, and punctuation are the basic stenographic 
skills.  Specific requirements vary, as some employers may also require 
proficiency in operating a stenotype machine.  Generally, entry-level 
Stenographers are expected to type from 40 to 55 words a minute accurately 
and to take dictation at 80 to 100 words a minute.  Applicants for more 
advanced positions are required to type 60 or 65 words a minute and take 
dictation at 110 words or more a minute.

Stenographers should be able to make basic arithmetic calculations 
involving fractions, decimals, and percentages.  Ability to type from 
dictating machines and to use 10-key adding machines or calculators may 
also be required.  Familiarity with word processing equipment and programs 
is helpful.

Normal or corrected hearing, finger dexterity, and eye-hand coordination 
are necessary for taking dictation and for typing.  Alertness, ability to 
concentrate on details, and willingness to follow instructions are 
important personal traits.

Prospective Stenographers should have a high school education (or the 
equivalent), with an emphasis in English, grammar, spelling, typing, 
shorthand, and other office skills.  Completion of one or two years of 
college-level business courses is desirable. Some employers may substitute 
training for part or all of the work experience required to qualify for 
higher-level positions.


ADVANCEMENT

Many Stenographers work in government agencies that promote from within, 
which means they have good opportunities for advancement.  In other 
industries, Stenographers may not have a clear career path, but may expect 
increases in pay and responsibility.  Promotions are based upon performance 
and generally involve a step-by-step movement from entry-level to senior-
level stenographic positions, and scheduled increase in pay.  

Government workers ordinarily must pass a test to be eligible for the next 
classification.  Experienced Stenographers with administrative skills and 
appropriate personal traits may advance to secretarial, supervisory, or 
administrative assistant positions.

Some Stenographers are self-employed, working out of their homes on a 
contract basis.


FINDING THE JOB

Persons seeking stenographic work should apply directly to governmental 
personnel offices, the nearest office of the Employment Development 
Department, private employment agencies and scan local newspaper's 
classified sections.  Applicants should be prepared to take written tests 
measuring verbal ability and clerical aptitude, as well as typing and 
shorthand performance tests that are scored on the basis of accuracy and 
speed.


RELATED OCCUPATIONAL GUIDES

Typists & Word Processing Technicians      No.  20
Secretaries                                No. 128
Shorthand Reporters/Court Reporters        No. 162
Legal Secretaries                          No. 172
Medical Secretaries                        No. 177
Clerks, General Office                     No. 295

OCCUPATIONAL CODE REFERENCES

DOT (Dictionary of Occupational Titles, 4th Ed.,1991)
Stenographer                           202.362-014

OES (Occupational Employment Statistics)System
Stenographers                               553020


Source:  State of California, Employment Development Department,
         Labor Market Information Division, Information Services Group,
         (916) 262-2162