Operate one or more of a variety of office machines, such as photocopying, photographic, and duplicating machines, or other office machines.
SOC: 43-9071.00
Common Job Titles
Copy Center Operator
Copy Machine Operator
Key Operator
Machine Operator
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
Hands-onCoordinate multi-step document production workflows involving scanning, printing, collating, and binding operations under time constraints.
Proficient
Hands-onOperate photocopying, duplicating, and binding machines in office environments, following production and processing procedures.
Developing
KnowledgeApply time management principles to prioritize work orders when organizing multiple printing and copying jobs with varying deadlines.
Developing
Hands-onManipulate mail processing equipment including sorting machines and addressing systems to ensure accurate and efficient document distribution.
Developing
KnowledgeApply quality control procedures to printed and duplicated materials by inspecting output for accuracy, clarity, and completeness.
Developing
KnowledgeExplain equipment capabilities and service limitations when communicating with supervisors, colleagues, and internal customers.
Developing
Hands-onExecute routine maintenance tasks on office machines including cleaning, calibrating, and replacing consumable supplies.
Developing
KnowledgeDiagnose common machine malfunctions and operational errors using troubleshooting protocols and knowledge of mechanical systems.
Developing
Hands-onOperate microfilm duplicators and automated processors to reproduce and archive documents following established preservation standards.
Developing
KnowledgeApply desktop publishing software including Adobe Creative Suite and Microsoft Office to prepare materials for printing and electronic distribution.
Developing
MindsetEngage with internal and external customers to fulfill service requests demonstrating responsiveness and attention to customer needs.
Developing
KnowledgeInterpret work orders and production specifications to determine appropriate equipment settings, paper stock, and finishing requirements.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Office Machine Operators, Except Computer (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
24,740
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $29,850. 25th percentile: U.S. $34,420. 50th percentile: U.S. $39,020. 75th percentile: U.S. $46,680. 90th percentile: U.S. $56,340. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$29,850
10% of workers earn the following or more
$56,340
Workers on average earn
$41,620
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
English Language3.9/5
Customer and Personal Service3.8/5
Production and Processing3.4/5
Computers and Electronics3.0/5
Mathematics2.9/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
