Office Clerks, General
General office clerks perform a range of administrative tasks that vary by workplace and don't fit into specialized clerical roles. They work in offices across various industries, handling responsibilities like answering phones, managing files, scheduling, data entry, and general administrative support. The role requires familiarity with office systems, software, and standard business procedures.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against office clerks, general and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves a mix of responsibilities that change based on office needs. One day might include answering phones, transferring calls, and taking messages. Another involves entering data into computer systems, filing documents, organizing records, or preparing correspondence. Clerks may schedule appointments, process forms, handle mail, or assist multiple departments. Tasks shift based on seasonal demands or special projects, requiring flexibility and the ability to prioritize among competing demands.
Who this work suits
Holland code CES. Conventional work is organized, detail-oriented work with clear procedures. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You tend to do well in this work if you prefer structure and established procedures, and you're organized with strong attention to detail. You also likely enjoy working with people and have entrepreneurial instincts about how to improve processes or help move projects forward in the workplace.
What it takes
Preparation: Some preparation (usually high school; some on-the-job training). Most people in this occupation hold a certificate or training program.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Openings right now
- OFFICE AUTOMATION CLERK · Air Force Special Operations Command · Hurlburt Field, Florida · $18–$18
- File Clerk (Office Automation) · Veterans Health Administration · Kansas City, Missouri · $37003–$48107
Openings are read from employers’ own career pages and public job boards and change daily. Search all openings (free account) to filter by distance, pay and how well you qualify.
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| District of Columbia | $46,530 | $55,040 | $65,570 | 5,670 |
| Colorado | $46,340 | $53,550 | $65,100 | 31,770 |
| Alaska | $43,320 | $51,890 | $62,610 | 3,440 |
| Washington | $44,700 | $50,500 | $61,320 | 49,050 |
| North Dakota | $42,680 | $50,160 | $62,100 | 8,440 |
| Massachusetts | $42,350 | $49,940 | $60,150 | 47,940 |
| Oregon | $42,340 | $49,910 | $58,790 | 27,980 |
| New Hampshire | $40,060 | $49,020 | $59,650 | 12,740 |
| New Jersey | $39,510 | $48,570 | $59,190 | 65,130 |
| California | $40,430 | $48,460 | $60,110 | 311,490 |
| Vermont | $41,720 | $48,310 | $55,990 | 5,100 |
| Connecticut | $40,630 | $48,280 | $58,410 | 23,190 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Nationally Certified Medical Office Assistant (NCMOA) — National Center for Competency Testing
- Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS): Excel Associate (Office 2019) — Microsoft Corporation
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
and 35 more
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against office clerks, general and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 43-9061.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.