Office Machine Operators, Except Computer
O*NET 43-9071.00 · SOC 43-9071
Office Machine Operator is a risky career choice. Median pay is $41k a year with -14.9% projected growth through 2035 (declining) and about 2,100 openings a year. AI exposure: High.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Operate high-volume photocopiers to reproduce documents.
- →Set up and run bindery machines to staple or bind reports.
- →Feed paper into mimeograph or duplicating machines for bulk copies.
- →Clear paper jams and perform basic machine maintenance.
- →Track job quantities and log completed production runs.
Education & How to Get In
Office Machine Operator roles typically require a high school diploma or equivalent, with most training happening on the job. This makes it one of the more accessible career paths — you can often start working while earning certifications or completing short-term training programs.
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Work Environment
Structured — offices, data centers, or remote
Independent — focused deep work with periodic team check-ins
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as an Office Machine Operator involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Office Machine Operator?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering — personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Office Machine Operator Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
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Job Outlook
Employment of Office Machine Operators, Except Computer is projected to decline 14.9% from 2025 to 2035, declining for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·59% routine cognitive tasks — high automation target
- ·Industry sector with high AI adoption trajectory
- ·Declining employment suggests structural disruption
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does an Office Machine Operator make?
The median Office Machine Operator earns $41k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Office Machine Operator jobs?
Our model puts Office Machine Operator at 83 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is high disruption risk. The main drivers: 59% routine cognitive tasks — high automation target; industry sector with high AI adoption trajectory.
Is Office Machine Operator a growing field?
Employment is projected to shrink 14.9% between 2025 and 2035, which is declining. That works out to roughly 2,100 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be an Office Machine Operator?
Most Office Machine Operator roles need a high school diploma or equivalent, with training happening on the job. A degree is not the usual route in.
How long does it take to become an Office Machine Operator?
Typically under a year, usually a high school diploma plus short training. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 2 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is an Office Machine Operator career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
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