Aptly
Careers · Office and administrative support

Office Machine Operators, Except Computer

Office machine operators run photocopiers, duplicating machines, and related equipment in offices, hospitals, and other organizations. They load paper and supplies, monitor machine operation, troubleshoot problems, and maintain equipment. Most work in administrative departments or print shops where large volumes of documents need copying or processing.

$40,960median pay, U.S., per year
$36,090–$47,910middle half earn
25Kemployed in the U.S.
High school diplomatypical education · 17% hold a bachelor’s or higher
LowAI exposure · AI tools touch only a small share of this work.
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A day in the work

A typical week involves loading paper and toner into machines, operating photocopiers and duplicators to produce documents, and checking output for quality. Operators monitor machines during operation, clear paper jams, replace supplies, and perform routine maintenance like cleaning. They may organize finished documents, track machine usage, and report equipment issues to maintenance staff.

Who this work suits

Conventional
93Realistic
59Investigative
19Enterprising
18Social
11Artistic
3

Holland code CRI. Conventional work is organized, detail-oriented work with clear procedures. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.

You're organized and detail-oriented, comfortable with repetitive tasks and mechanical systems. You prefer hands-on work with clear procedures and tangible results, and you're reliable about following established routines and keeping equipment functioning smoothly.

What it takes

Preparation: Some preparation (usually high school; some on-the-job training). Most people in this occupation hold a high school diploma.

Skills that matter most

Operation and ControlReading ComprehensionOperations MonitoringActive ListeningSpeakingCritical ThinkingMonitoringJudgment and Decision Making

Knowledge areas

English LanguageCustomer and Personal ServiceProduction and ProcessingComputers and ElectronicsMathematics (knowledge)Administrative

Pay by state

Training

Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.

Related occupations

Are you suited for this?
Four short assessments and your background, scored against office machine operators, except computer and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
Find out in 15 minutes See openings

O*NET-SOC 43-9071.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.