How to become an office machine operator, except computer

Operate one or more of a variety of office machines, such as photocopying, photographic, and duplicating machines, or other office machines.

Steps to get there

Most employers expect usually requires a high school diploma or ged, though some occupations may not..Some occupations may need little or no previous experience; others require several months to a year of experience. For example, landscaping and groundskeeping workers might require very little training or previous experience, while agricultural equipment operators can benefit from on-the job training.

What office machine operators, except computer do

• Compute prices for services and receive payment, or provide supervisors with billing information.
• Set up and adjust machines, regulating factors such as speed, ink flow, focus, and number of copies.
• Monitor machine operation, and make adjustments as necessary to ensure proper operation.
• File and store completed documents.
• Operate auxiliary machines such as collators, pad and tablet making machines, staplers, and paper punching, folding, cutting, and perforating machines.
• Maintain stock of supplies, and requisition any needed items.

Skills that matter most

• Reading Comprehension
• Active Listening
• Speaking
• Critical Thinking
• Monitoring
• Writing
• Active Learning
• Mathematics

Is office machine operator, except computer a good career?

On the numbers, this job is close to the average across occupations. Median pay is 20% below the all-occupation median. Whether it fits you depends on the work itself, the schooling you are willing to do and where you want to live.

Where it pays most

• Alaska $56,010
• Vermont $48,380
• California $47,150
• Colorado $46,860
• Washington $46,290

Office Machine Operators, Except Computer salary by state and city

Sources: O*NET® 31.0 (CC BY 4.0, USDOL/ETA) and BLS Employment Projections 2025–35. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025.