Word Processors and Typists

SOC code 43-9022 · O*NET-SOC 43-9022.00 · Little to some preparation needed · Office and administration

Word Processors and Typists pay

U.S. national figures, May 2025 BLS survey · How we got this number

Median pay

$49,280

a year

Hourly

$23.69

per hour

10th$36,810Median$49,28090th$65,150

The solid band is the middle 50% of workers; the bar spans the 10th to 90th percentile.

Average pay

$51,120

$24.58 per hour

Middle 50%

$40,800 – $57,670

25th to 75th percentile

Full spread

$36,810 – $65,150

10th to 90th percentile

People employed

35,010

nationwide

National U.S. figure, May 2025. Local pay can be higher or lower.

10th percentile: $36,810; $17.70/hr
25th percentile: $40,800; $19.62/hr
Median percentile: $49,280; $23.69/hr
75th percentile: $57,670; $27.73/hr
90th percentile: $65,150; $31.32/hr

What do word processors and typists do?

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.

The tasks that matter most day to day

File and store completed documents on computer hard drive or disk, or maintain a computer filing system to store, retrieve, update, and delete documents.
Transmit work electronically to other locations.
Compute and verify totals on report forms, requisitions, or bills, using adding machine or calculator.
Perform other clerical duties, such as answering telephone, sorting and distributing mail, running errands or sending faxes.
Electronically sort and compile text and numerical data, retrieving, updating, and merging documents as required.
Check completed work for spelling, grammar, punctuation, and format.
Print and make copies of work.
Search for specific sets of stored, typed characters to make changes.

How to qualify for this work

Preparation level: zone 2 — Little to some preparation needed

Education: Usually requires a high school diploma or GED, though some occupations may not.
Experience: Some occupations may need little or no previous experience; others require several months to a year of experience. For example, landscaping and groundskeeping workers might require very little training or previous experience, while agricultural equipment operators can benefit from on-the job training.
Training: Ranges from a few days to one year of on-the-job training.

See all zone 2 occupations →

The federal survey did not capture education levels for this specific occupation, so the preparation-level card above is the best guide to the entry route.

Common questions

How much does a word processors and typists earn?

The national median is $49,280 a year. The full range runs from $36,810 at the 10th percentile to $65,150 at the 90th — entry pay sits closer to the lower figure, and experience, licensing and specialisation move you up the range.

Can you become a word processors and typists without a degree?

Yes — this occupation sits in preparation zone 2, meaning the typical entry route is usually requires a high school diploma or GED, though some occupations may not. A four-year degree is not the standard requirement, though licensing or certification may still apply.

Skills and knowledge you need

Core skills

Reading Comprehension3.8/5
Active Listening3.4/5
Writing3.3/5
Speaking3.0/5
Monitoring3.0/5
Critical Thinking2.9/5

Knowledge areas

English Language4.6/5
Administrative4.5/5
Customer and Personal Service4.0/5
Computers and Electronics3.5/5
Law and Government3.4/5
Administration and Management3.1/5
Public Safety and Security2.8/5
Communications and Media2.7/5

Transferable strengths: Time Management, Social Perceptiveness, Coordination, Service Orientation.