STENOGRAPHERS Number 25 Interest Area 7 1998
THE JOB
STENOGRAPHERS take dictation in shorthand and then transcribe their notes on a typewriter or word processor. Occasionally they may type directly from a dictating machine, using earphones to listen to a recorded voice. Dictation may include letters, legal documents, technical or statistical data, and other materials. Stenographers are responsible for correct format, punctuation, capitalization, and spelling. They are expected to distinguish between words or expressions that sound alike but are spelled differently and to use the dictionary for reference. Time spent in stenographic work may vary, but in all cases it makes up an essential part of the job.
In addition to their stenographic duties, most Stenographers do some clerical tasks related to the operation of the office. They may type a variety of materials from longhand copy, set up and maintain files, keep records up to date, and compile statistical or other reports based on these records. They may also sort and distribute mail, compose routine letters, answer the telephone, and act as receptionist. Experienced Stenographers may supervise other stenographic or clerical employees. Some Stenographers specialize in particular fields such as medicine, engineering, or law. They must be familiar with the technical terminology and the documents used in their specialty.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Stenographers work mainly in government (such as state, county, and city agencies), in hospitals, and education. They may begin in a stenographic pool, working wherever they are needed. More often they are assigned to one department and take dictation from one or more people in that department. Offices are usually well lit and pleasant but may be noisy and busy. Stenographers sometimes work under the pressure of deadlines and frequent interruptions.
EMPLOYMENT OUTLOOK
The following information is from the California Projections of Employment published by the Labor Market Information Division.
Estimated number of workers in 1993 9,380 Estimated number of workers in 2005 9,070 Projected Growth 1993-2005 -3% Estimated openings due to separations by 2005 1,970
(These figures do not include self-employment or openings due to turnover.)
Despite employment declines in this occupation, qualified Stenographers will be needed to replace workers trained in specialized fields such as legal stenography and for those who have a broad range of clerical or secretarial skills.
At the present time, employers report a growing shortage of job applicants who can pass their basic typing, shorthand, and language tests. Marginally skilled applicants may have difficulty finding work.
WAGES, HOURS, AND FRINGE BENEFITS
Salaries vary with experience, the location of the job, and the degree of responsibility or skill involved. The median wage for Stenographers in California is $9.17. The top salary for experienced and specialized Stenographers, including Supervising Stenographers, is $3,500 per month or more.
Stenographers usually work from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Fringe benefits include paid vacations, holidays and sick leave, medical and dental insurance, and a pension plan.
ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS AND TRAINING
Proficiency in typing and shorthand and a working knowledge of English grammar, vocabulary, spelling, and punctuation are the basic stenographic skills. Specific requirements vary, as some employers may also require proficiency in operating a stenotype machine. Generally, entry-level Stenographers are expected to type from 40 to 55 words a minute accurately and to take dictation at 80 to 100 words a minute. Applicants for more advanced positions are required to type 60 or 65 words a minute and take dictation at 110 words or more a minute.
Stenographers should be able to make basic arithmetic calculations involving fractions, decimals, and percentages. Ability to type from dictating machines and to use 10-key adding machines or calculators may also be required. Familiarity with word processing equipment and programs is helpful.
Normal or corrected hearing, finger dexterity, and eye-hand coordination are necessary for taking dictation and for typing. Alertness, ability to concentrate on details, and willingness to follow instructions are important personal traits.
Prospective Stenographers should have a high school education (or the equivalent), with an emphasis in English, grammar, spelling, typing, shorthand, and other office skills. Completion of one or two years of college-level business courses is desirable. Some employers may substitute training for part or all of the work experience required to qualify for higher-level positions.
ADVANCEMENT
Many Stenographers work in government agencies that promote from within, which means they have good opportunities for advancement. In other industries, Stenographers may not have a clear career path, but may expect increases in pay and responsibility. Promotions are based upon performance and generally involve a step-by-step movement from entry-level to senior- level stenographic positions, and scheduled increase in pay.
Government workers ordinarily must pass a test to be eligible for the next classification. Experienced Stenographers with administrative skills and appropriate personal traits may advance to secretarial, supervisory, or administrative assistant positions.
Some Stenographers are self-employed, working out of their homes on a contract basis.
FINDING THE JOB
Persons seeking stenographic work should apply directly to governmental personnel offices, the nearest office of the Employment Development Department, private employment agencies and scan local newspaper's classified sections. Applicants should be prepared to take written tests measuring verbal ability and clerical aptitude, as well as typing and shorthand performance tests that are scored on the basis of accuracy and speed.
RELATED OCCUPATIONAL GUIDES
Typists & Word Processing Technicians No. 20 Secretaries No. 128 Shorthand Reporters/Court Reporters No. 162 Legal Secretaries No. 172 Medical Secretaries No. 177 Clerks, General Office No. 295
OCCUPATIONAL CODE REFERENCES
DOT (Dictionary of Occupational Titles, 4th Ed.,1991) Stenographer 202.362-014
OES (Occupational Employment Statistics)System Stenographers 553020
Source: State of California, Employment Development Department,
Labor Market Information Division, Information Services Group,
(916) 262-2162
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