Though there are no specific educational requirements to be a file clerk, a high school diploma or GED is usually preferred by most companies. Good handwriting and communication skills and spelling are a must, and as we mentioned before, you should be a fast reader. If you are applying for a civil service job as a file clerk, there is a written and also oral exam. You should have patience and the ability to focus on repetitive, sometimes not very exciting activity. Also, you should be able to get along with most people well, as you will often have to assist co-workers.

Job Role

File clerks are responsible for examining incoming documents and classifying them and “filing” them in the proper place. They also “code” documents, classifying them either by subject or numerically according to the company’s rules. Each company may have varying methods of filing so expect to have to learn different methods if you switch jobs within your field. Records are either filed physically in file cabinets, on microfilm, and increasingly and even more expected in the future, by computer imaging, so you should know your way around a PC very well to stay competitive. Likewise, file clerks are responsible for retrieving documents as needed by other company staff members.

Work Hours

File clerks typically work a regular 40 hour work week, though some hospitals have weekend demands. Some companies will also provide benefits, such as health and insurance plans. You can also work part time as a file clerk. According to one government web site, one out of four file clerks works part time.

Salary

With less than a year’s experience, expect about $9 dollars an hour. This goes up slowly but you’ll never be rich. A file clerk with twenty years or more experience in the United States averages just over $12 an hour.

Getting Started

If you are still in high school, and not bound for a four year college, discuss this with your guidance counselor and see if being a file clerk might suit your skills and personality. You should be a fast reader, so perhaps you might want to take a speed reading course. You will also need to be in relatively good physical condition, as you will have to bend over, reach and down and also be able to sit still for a while. Even if you don’t go for a four year degree, an associate 2 year program at a junior college is an asset and will improve your chances of getting a job. Legal firms, doctors and insurance companies all employ file clerks and you should make the rounds locally with phone calls and your resume with a cover letter of introduction. Of course, you should also check the online job sites and newspaper classified ads.