What is a File Clerk?

<h3 id="section---FileClerkDefined">File Clerk Defined</h3> <p>As a file clerk, you're responsible for maintaining files containing a variety of correspondence and records in a general office environment. You may create files, retrieve records, and place new data in existing files. You can expect to code materials to be filed, utilizing existing filing systems or creating new ones. You might locate information for other employees, and keep track of records that are removed from a filing system. </p> <p>Your duties could also include opening and sorting mail, archiving files and inspecting the condition of stored documents. You might need to operate basic office equipment, such as scanners, printers and fax machines. Some companies may require you to perform general administrative duties, such as answering phones, covering a front desk, greeting guests or making photocopies. </p> <h3 id="section---ImportantFactsAboutThisOccupation">Important Facts About This Occupation</h3> <p /> <table border="1"><tr><td>On-the-Job Training</td><td> Office procedures and computer programs are covered in short-term training</td></tr> <tr><td>Work Environment</td><td> Office setting, on a part-time or full-time schedule</td></tr> <tr><td>Key Skills</td><td> Good communication and interpersonal skills, integrity, organizational skills</td></tr> <tr><td>Similar Occupations</td><td> General office clerks, receptionists</td></tr> </table><h3 id="section---SkillsAndEducation">Skills and Education</h3> <p>Some employers want you to have previous experience with creating, managing and filing documents. You should know how to type and be able to use Microsoft applications, such as Word, Excel and Access. </p> <p>Knowledge of Microsoft SharePoint might be needed at companies that use this as a means of communication in their organization. General administrative assistance experience may be required. Some employers look for you to have at least a high school education or a GED, but an associate degree could be helpful and may be preferred. </p> <h3 id="section---JobOutlookAndSalary">Job Outlook and Salary</h3> <p>The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) lists file clerks as a type of information clerk. Data from the BLS indicates employment for file clerks is expected to have little or no change from 2021 to 2031. While jobs for information clerks are available in the travel and healthcare industries and government services, opportunities will become limited due to the consolidation and automation of administrative duties. </p> <p>According to the BLS, clerical knowledge and computer experience may help you find a job as a file clerk. As of May 2021, the median annual salary for a file clerk was $36,360, the BLS reported.</p>