Document Shredding Clerk Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of information security, the role of Document Shredding Clerks has never been more vital.

As the business landscape becomes ever more data-driven, the demand for proficient individuals who can effectively manage, destroy, and ensure the confidentiality of our business documents continues to grow.

But what does a Document Shredding Clerk really do?

Whether you are:

• An aspiring professional trying to understand the specifics of this role,
• A recruiter crafting the perfect job description,
• Or simply curious about the responsibilities and intricacies of document shredding,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present to you a customizable Document Shredding Clerk job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Document Shredding Clerk Duties and Responsibilities

Document Shredding Clerks play a crucial role in maintaining the privacy and confidentiality of sensitive organizational information.

Their primary responsibility is to safely and efficiently destroy documents that are no longer needed, adhering to company policies and legal requirements.

Their daily duties and responsibilities include:

• Identify documents that need to be destroyed as per the document retention policy
• Properly operate shredding machinery to destroy sensitive documents
• Handle and sort documents in a secure manner
• Maintain records of the document shredding process
• Ensure that shredded materials are properly disposed of or sent for recycling
• Perform regular maintenance checks on shredding machinery
• Ensure compliance with company and legal data destruction regulations
• Coordinate with other departments to collect documents for shredding
• Perform regular audits to ensure that no sensitive documents have been missed

 

Document Shredding Clerk Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a reliable Document Shredding Clerk to join our team.

The ideal candidate will be responsible for the secure disposal of confidential company documents in accordance with our data disposal policy.

The Document Shredding Clerk will be in charge of operating and maintaining shredding machinery, documenting the shredding process and ensuring the proper disposal of shredded materials.

 

Responsibilities

• Operate shredding machinery to destroy sensitive company documents
• Maintain the shredding equipment and troubleshoot any issues
• Ensure that all documents are shredded according to company policy
• Document the shredding process, ensuring that all steps are properly recorded
• Dispose of shredded material in a secure and environmentally-friendly manner
• Handle confidential information with discretion and integrity
• Assist with other administrative tasks as needed

 

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Experience in a similar role is advantageous
• Knowledge of data disposal procedures and regulations
• Ability to operate and maintain shredding machinery
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
• Ability to handle confidential information responsibly
• Basic computer skills for documentation purposes

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Training and development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Document Shredding Clerk
• Work Environment: Office setting with occasional trips to off-site storage facilities may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Office Manager or designated supervisor.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Document Shredding Clerk Do?

A Document Shredding Clerk is a professional who is tasked with the responsibility of securely disposing sensitive information from various sources in a corporate setting.

They primarily operate industrial shredding machines to destroy paper documents that are no longer needed or contain sensitive information.

These documents may include old contracts, financial statements, employee records, or any other confidential paperwork.

The Document Shredding Clerk sorts, prepares, and organizes documents for shredding.

They must ensure that all documents are properly shredded and irretrievable to maintain the confidentiality and privacy of the information.

In addition to the physical shredding of documents, some clerks may also be responsible for the digital deletion of files from servers and hard drives.

They also maintain records of the documents that have been shredded and sometimes are responsible for recycling the shredded material.

Lastly, the Document Shredding Clerk ensures that the shredding machines are in good working order, performing routine maintenance and calling for repairs when necessary.

 

Document Shredding Clerk Qualifications and Skills

A Document Shredding Clerk should possess a range of skills and qualifications that meet the specific requirements of the job role, such as:

• Detail-orientation to ensure that the right documents are shredded and that no important documents are mistakenly destroyed.
• Time management skills to handle multiple tasks and complete the shredding process in a timely and efficient manner.
• Organizational skills to keep track of all documents that need to be shredded and maintain an orderly work environment.
• Understanding of document management and retention policies to make sure that documents are not shredded before the expiration of their retention period.
• Physical stamina to stand for long periods and lift heavy boxes of documents.
• Basic maintenance skills to troubleshoot and resolve minor issues with shredding machines, ensuring minimum downtime.
• Reliability and trustworthiness since they often handle sensitive and confidential documents.

 

Document Shredding Clerk Experience Requirements

Document Shredding Clerks typically need a high school diploma or equivalent.

Entry-level candidates may have less than a year of experience, often gained through an internship or part-time role in a related office environment.

These professionals can also gain on-the-job experience in roles such as Office Clerk, Records Clerk, or Administrative Assistant roles, where they learn about the confidentiality and disposal processes of important documents.

Candidates with more than 1 year of experience often develop their skills and knowledge in understanding the legal requirements of document disposal, operating various shredding machines, and maintaining the confidentiality of sensitive information.

Those with more than 3 years of experience may have some supervisory experience in their background and may be ready for a team-lead or managerial position in the document shredding department.

They may also have the experience to implement document disposal policies and ensure the company’s compliance with regulations related to document shredding.

 

Document Shredding Clerk Education and Training Requirements

Document Shredding Clerks typically require a high school diploma or equivalent for entry-level positions.

They must have strong organizational skills and attention to detail, as the role involves handling sensitive and confidential documents.

Basic computer skills are also necessary for operating shredding machinery and maintaining digital records of shredded documents.

While specific training programs for document shredding are not common, many employers provide on-the-job training to ensure clerks understand company-specific procedures and compliance requirements.

This training often covers topics such as document sorting, shredding equipment operation and maintenance, and proper disposal methods.

A certification in Information Destruction (CSDS) from the National Association for Information Destruction can enhance job prospects by demonstrating a commitment to industry standards and best practices.

Although not required, having a background in office administration or records management can be beneficial.

Higher level roles may require an associate’s degree or higher in a relevant field such as business administration or information management, along with additional years of experience in a records management role.

Continued education in the form of workshops or short courses related to information management, privacy laws, and data protection is recommended for career progression.

 

Document Shredding Clerk Salary Expectations

A Document Shredding Clerk earns an average salary of $30,000 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings may depend on factors such as experience, location, and the size and industry of the employing company.

 

Document Shredding Clerk Job Description FAQs

What skills does a document shredding clerk need?

A document shredding clerk should have strong attention to detail to ensure all necessary documents are properly destroyed.

They should also possess organizational skills to manage numerous documents effectively.

Basic understanding of confidentiality and privacy laws is needed to ensure proper handling of sensitive information.

 

Do document shredding clerks need a degree?

Typically, a document shredding clerk does not need a degree.

However, they should have a high school diploma or equivalent.

Any experience or knowledge in handling confidential documents or working in an office environment could be advantageous.

 

What should you look for in a document shredding clerk resume?

The resume should highlight their attention to detail, organization skills, and ability to handle confidential documents responsibly.

Experience in a similar role or an office environment could be beneficial.

Having a certification in handling sensitive documents could be an added advantage.

 

What qualities make a good document shredding clerk?

A good document shredding clerk is diligent and thorough, ensuring that all required documents are properly shredded.

They respect the confidentiality of the documents and adhere to all privacy regulations.

They should be able to work independently and also be capable of maintaining the shredding equipment.

 

Is it difficult to hire a document shredding clerk?

Hiring a document shredding clerk is not typically challenging.

However, it is crucial to find a candidate who understands the importance of the role and the need for discretion and attention to detail in handling confidential documents.

Offering a fair salary and good work environment can help attract suitable candidates.

 

Conclusion

And that’s a wrap.

Today, we’ve unraveled the intricacies of being a document shredding clerk.

Surprise, surprise!

It’s not just about shredding papers.

It’s about safeguarding the privacy and confidentiality of data, one document at a time.

Armed with our comprehensive document shredding clerk job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take the plunge.

But why halt your stride?

Delve deeper with our job description generator. It’s your stepping stone to meticulous job listings or refining your resume to the hilt.

Keep in mind:

Every shredded document contributes to a larger effort.

Let’s secure that privacy. Together.

How to Become a Document Shredding Clerk (Complete Guide)

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