Organizations today need to process a rapidly growing amount of information. WORD PROCESSORS AND TYPISTS handle this work. They use typewriters, word processors, and personal computers to type letters, reports, and other documents from rough drafts written by others.

Word Processors and Typists perform the following tasks:

• Sort and file materials.
• Answer telephones.
• Record information.
• Sort and distribute mail.
• Handle and account for cash.
• Prepare simple statistical reports.
• Operate business machines.
• Run errands.
• Locate and correct spelling errors using computer software features.
• Proofread and correct grammar and punctuation errors on documents.
• Load paper in printers.
• Change print wheels or fluid cartridges.
• Activate printers to obtain the desired "hard" copies on appropriate paper or forms.
• Format information into charts and tables.

Word Processors do their work on personal computers, word processors, composing machines, text-editing machines, or computerized typewriters. They enter information onto keyboards from written drafts or transcribing equipment, such as tape.

Some Typists work in areas such as law, medicine, engineering or foreign language, and use special terms that relate to these fields.

Technicians maintain a filing system on computers, diskettes, or tape drives. They sometimes use an optical scanner to input data.

Some of the important skills, knowledge, and abilities for Word Processors and Typists include:

• Reading Comprehension - Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
• Wrist-Finger Speed - The ability to make fast, simple, repeated movements of the fingers, hands, and wrists.
• Near Vision - The ability to see details of objects at a close range.
• Written Comprehension - The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
• Clerical Knowledge - Knowledge of administrative and clerical procedures and systems such as word processing systems, filing and records management systems, stenography and transcription, forms design principles, and other office procedures and terminology.
• English Language - Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.

Word Processors and Typists are employed in a variety of private businesses ranging from small secretarial services to large companies and government agencies. They may work in central word processing centers within a large organization. They may work in a small office performing a variety of additional clerical duties. Most work in modern offices with air conditioning and good lighting. Some may work in cramped areas in industrial plants or trailers.

Glare from computer monitors may cause eyestrain after prolonged periods. Some employers permit extra rest periods for these workers. Workers who follow safety guidelines for positions of equipment avoid cumulative trauma disorders caused by repetitive motion.

Some Word Processors and Typists are represented by unions, particularly those working for government agencies.

Although this is one of the largest occupations in California, its numbers are in decline. Many professional and managerial staff complete their own work on computers. Word Processors and Typists formerly did this work. Optical character readers (scanning devices) and voice recognition systems greatly reduce the need for entry of data. Nearly 10,000 job openings will occur in California during the 1998-2008 period despite declining numbers. These openings occur from the need to replace Word Processors and Typists who permanently leave the field.

Word Processors and Typists work in all industries. In recent years, many employers have hired Word Processors and Typists through temporary help agencies.