Bookkeeping machine operators work with typewriter-like machines to record data and to maintain one phase or a complete set of financial transactions. They run complex machines that add, subtract, multiply, divide and find the square root of numbers and use these calculations to prepare payrolls, compute production costs and perform other statistical operations.
Operator first sort records to be posted, such as cheques, and debit and credit items. They then select and place forms in the machine and set the carriage. They also verify entries and summarize balance totals to ensure accuracy. Other office machines such as calculators and adding machines may also be used. In addition, some operators prepare periodic trial balances and other statistical information. These operators often work under pressure, especially at the end of each month.
Satisfying Aspects
- the large number of associated job opportunities in this field (computer work or banking)
- good employment opportunities
- regular hours
Demanding aspects
- doing steady, repetitious work
- paying constant attention to detai
- having to sit for long periods
- the intense concentration needed that may lead to eyestrain and nervousness
Requirements
A bookkeeping machine operator should have/be:
- accurate, neat and orderly
- enjoy detailed work
- work well under pressure
- able to concentrate under noisy conditions
- dependable and honest
- able to work well with others
- manual dexterity
- good eyesight
- some mathematical ability
School Subjects
Grade 10 Certificate
Compulsory Subjects: None
Recommended Subjects: Mathematics, Economics, Accounting
Training
The suppliers of bookkeeping machines usually provide short training courses. Operators receive both theoretical and practical training. Short in-service training courses are usually provided by the employers.
Business courses are also offered by some FET Colleges, eg Cape Town, Elangeni, Flavius Mareka, KZN Coastal, Northern Cape, Port Elizabeth, SW Gauteng, Tshwane South, and by some correspondence colleges.
Employer
- public, provincial and municipal services
- commerce and industry
- educational institutions
- professional and research bodies.
- wholesale firms
- retail stores
- factories
- banks and insurance companies
- health care units
- local authorities
- government departments
www.icb.org.za