What does a Clerk do?
Clerks offer administrative support in all kinds of different organizations. Generally they provide assistance with filing, answering phones, processing payments, and offer general support to the administrative staff as needed. They may work for large companies, small offices, as part of hospital administration teams, and more. Skilled clerks are needed across all industries.
Clerks don't require education beyond a high school diploma, though many organizations may prefer to hire someone with a bachelor's degree. The most talented clerks tend to possess superior communication skills, a strong work ethic and a service-based attitude. They are always looking for ways to support their team. Solid computer skills and a basic understanding of bookkeeping best practices are huge assets to clerks.
- File documents in the appropriate place so they are easy to find
- Accurately enter data from paper files into computer systems
- Answer and direct incoming telephone calls
- Process incoming mail and ensure it reaches the appropriate person, prepare outgoing mail for sending
- Deliver documents, memos, and files to internal departments and employees
- Prepare invoices and process bill payments
- Take minutes and notes during departmental meetings
- Perform light housekeeping duties such as watering office plants, preparing coffee each morning and ensuring all communal spaces remain tidy
- 1+ years of prior experience working in a professional office environment is preferred
- Basic knowledge of Microsoft Office suite
- Polite phone presence and strong customer service skills
- Positive attitude and the ability to work as part of a team
- Excellent attention to detail and accuracy with data entry
- Strong work ethic and a self-starter who anticipates and completes tasks without being asked
- Must have solid organizational skills
- An understanding of how to use common office equipment such as printers, copiers and scanners is a plus
- Superior communication skills are essential for success
Clerk Salaries
Average Base Pay
Clerk Career Path
Learn how to become a Clerk, what skills and education you need to succeed, and what level of pay to expect at each step on your career path.
Years of Experience Distribution
Clerk Insights
Krispy Kreme“I was able to get to work with nice people and occasional free donuts were great”
Hy-Vee“Everything kinda is not fun and I didn't like the people I was working with”
Aerotek“I had a great boss who helped with any issues and always try to keep things positive”
Ross Stores“I was a temp and parking was expensive but a parking pass wasn't worth it”
Kroger“Bad for good workers because bad workers won't be talked to about their work.I”
QuikTrip“The cons outweigh the pros in my personal opinion and the benefits aren't that great.”
“Solid 40 hours a week unless there's a holiday and you don't get paid for it.”
Riceland Foods“Everyone is super nice and will teach you just about anything you ask a question about.”
Frequently asked questions about the role and responsibilities of a Clerk
When working as a Clerk, the most common skills you will need to perform your job and for career success are Excellent Customer Service, Effective Communication, Computer Literacy, Microsoft Office Software and Attention To Detail.
- Accountant
- Executive Assistant
- Administrative Assistant
- Office Manager
The most common qualifications to become a Clerk is a minimum of a Bachelor's Degree and an average of 0 - 1 of experience not including years spent in education and/or training.