General Transcriptionist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In this modern era, the need for proficient general transcriptionists is on the rise.

As information continues to flow relentlessly, the demand for skilled professionals who can accurately transcribe, organize and manage this information intensifies.

But let’s delve deeper: What exactly is expected from a general transcriptionist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the intricacies of this role,
• A hiring manager seeking to outline the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the world of transcription,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we introduce a customizable general transcriptionist job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive in.

General Transcriptionist Duties and Responsibilities

General Transcriptionists are responsible for converting audio files into written documents.

They use their strong listening skills and attention to detail to accurately transcribe content, often dealing with different accents, dialects, and background noise.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Listening to audio files and accurately transcribing the content
• Reviewing and proofreading transcripts for accuracy
• Correcting spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors
• Formatting transcripts according to established guidelines or clients’ requirements
• Identifying and flagging any unclear or indistinct words or phrases
• Managing workloads and meeting deadlines
• Maintaining the confidentiality and security of all information
• Researching unfamiliar terms or concepts as needed
• Keeping up to date with changes in transcription software and equipment

 

General Transcriptionist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a detail-oriented General Transcriptionist to convert spoken language into written form.

General Transcriptionist responsibilities include listening to audio recordings, typing the content, editing for clarity and accuracy, and submitting for review and approval.

Our ideal candidate possesses excellent typing skills, a keen ear, and a strong command of English grammar and spelling.

Ultimately, the role of the General Transcriptionist is to produce high-quality written documents that accurately reflect the recorded audio.

 

Responsibilities

• Transcribe audio recordings into written documents
• Edit transcriptions for clarity and accuracy
• Adhere to specific formatting guidelines
• Proofread work for errors and inconsistencies
• Submit completed work for review and approval
• Maintain the confidentiality of all information
• Meet deadlines for completed transcriptions

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a transcriptionist or similar role
• Excellent typing skills (speed and accuracy)
• Strong command of English grammar and spelling
• Ability to listen and understand various accents and dialects
• Experience with transcription software and equipment
• High level of concentration and ability to work under pressure
• High school diploma or equivalent qualification

 

Benefits

• Flexible working hours
• Work from home opportunities
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: General Transcriptionist
• Work Environment: This role is primarily remote, with flexible hours based on workload and deadlines.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Transcription Supervisor or Project Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $30,000 minimum to $50,000 maximum
• Location: Remote
• Employment Type: Full-time, Part-time, Contract
• 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 General Transcriptionist Do?

A General Transcriptionist typically works for a variety of industries including legal, medical, media, and more.

They can also operate as independent contractors providing services to individuals or businesses.

Their primary role involves listening to audio and video files and accurately transcribing them into written documents.

This includes lectures, interviews, meetings, speeches, podcasts and more.

They need to ensure that the transcription is accurate, complete, and free from spelling, grammar, or punctuation errors.

They may also be required to edit and revise transcriptions as necessary.

In some cases, transcriptionists may need to interpret technical language or jargon in the files and transcribe it in a way that is easy to understand.

They must be able to manage time effectively to meet deadlines and might have to handle multiple assignments at once.

Their role also involves maintaining confidentiality as they often deal with sensitive information.

They may also be required to use specific transcription software or tools as part of their job.

In some cases, they may need to submit completed transcriptions for review and make any necessary corrections or adjustments.

Depending on the industry, they may need specialized knowledge or training.

For instance, a medical transcriptionist would need familiarity with medical terminology, while a legal transcriptionist might require understanding of legal jargon.

 

General Transcriptionist Qualifications and Skills

A proficient General Transcriptionist should have the skills and qualifications that align with your job description, such as:

• Strong typing skills to transcribe audio and video recordings into written form quickly and accurately.
• Excellent listening skills to understand and capture spoken information, even in cases of poor audio quality or heavily accented speech.
• Flawless grammar, spelling, and punctuation abilities to ensure transcription accuracy and readability.
• Proficiency in using transcription software and hardware, such as foot pedals and headphones, to facilitate the transcription process.
• High level of concentration and focus to accurately transcribe information without missing details.
• Good time management skills to meet deadlines and handle multiple assignments concurrently.
• Knowledge of specific terminology or jargon related to different fields, such as medical, legal, or technical, depending on the nature of the transcription work.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information professionally.

 

General Transcriptionist Experience Requirements

Typically, general transcriptionists need to have at least one to two years of experience in transcription or a related field.

This experience may be obtained through internships, part-time roles, or freelance work in transcription services.

Many transcriptionists begin their career in entry-level roles such as data entry, administrative assistant, or clerical positions, where they gain hands-on experience in typing and editing.

Candidates with more than three years of experience often have refined their skills in areas such as proofreading, research, and using transcription software effectively.

They may have also gained experience in specific fields such as medical, legal, or business transcription, which can be an advantage in certain job roles.

Individuals with more than five years of experience may have a comprehensive understanding of the transcription field, and are likely to have developed strong listening skills and a high typing speed.

They may be ready to take on more complex transcription projects or supervisory roles.

Many experienced transcriptionists also offer training or mentoring to less experienced colleagues.

In addition to job-specific experience, many employers also value transcriptionists who have a strong grasp of grammar and punctuation, excellent listening skills, and the ability to meet strict deadlines.

 

General Transcriptionist Education and Training Requirements

General Transcriptionists typically require a high school diploma or equivalent, with some employers preferring candidates with post-secondary training in transcription, which can be attained through vocational schools, community colleges, and online programs.

These programs offer courses in grammar and punctuation, medical terminology, legal issues relating to documentation and the English language.

An advanced typing speed and computer skills are also essential for this role.

While not mandatory, certification from the Association for Healthcare Documentation Integrity (AHDI) for medical transcriptionists or from the American Association of Electronic Reporters and Transcribers (AAERT) for legal transcriptionists can be beneficial.

General Transcriptionists working in specialized fields such as medical or legal may require additional training and certification in these areas.

This could involve understanding complex terminology, legalities, and confidentiality requirements.

Continuing education in the form of workshops, online courses, or certification programs is also recommended as it helps keep transcriptionists updated with the latest technologies and industry trends.

 

General Transcriptionist Salary Expectations

A General Transcriptionist earns an average salary of $45,000 (USD) per year.

However, earnings can vary based on factors such as the transcriptionist’s speed and efficiency, the complexity of the material, and whether they are working full time or part time.

Geographic location and the company or individual employing the transcriptionist can also affect salary.

 

General Transcriptionist Job Description FAQs

What skills does a General Transcriptionist need?

A General Transcriptionist should have excellent listening skills and be detail-oriented to accurately transcribe audio files.

They should possess excellent typing skills, ideally with a high words per minute (wpm) speed.

Proficiency in grammar, punctuation, and spelling is crucial.

They also need to have good research skills in case they need to look up unfamiliar terms or concepts mentioned in the audio.

 

Do General Transcriptionists need a degree?

A degree is not typically required to become a General Transcriptionist.

However, some companies may prefer candidates with a background in fields such as English or Communications.

Most importantly, candidates should have high-quality transcription skills which can be gained through online courses, certificate programs, or on-the-job experience.

 

What should you look for in a General Transcriptionist resume?

Look for previous experience in transcription services, indicating familiarity with the job requirements.

Certifications from transcription training programs would be a plus.

Proficiency in the use of transcription software and equipment should also be noted.

Additionally, they should demonstrate excellent language skills and the ability to work independently and meet deadlines.

 

What qualities make a good General Transcriptionist?

A good General Transcriptionist is accurate, detail-oriented, and patient, as they often need to replay parts of an audio file to ensure precise transcription.

They need to be self-motivated and disciplined as most transcriptionists work remotely.

Strong language skills and the ability to understand different accents, dialects, and industry jargon are also crucial.

 

Is it difficult to hire General Transcriptionists?

Finding a qualified General Transcriptionist can be a bit challenging since the role requires a unique skill set.

However, many transcriptionists work on a freelance basis, so there can be a good pool of candidates to choose from.

The key is to look for candidates with proven transcription experience and a strong command of the language.

 

Conclusion

So, there you have it.

Today, we’ve uncovered the true nature of being a general transcriptionist.

Guess what?

It’s not just about typing fast.

It’s about transforming audio into text, one word at a time, while maintaining accuracy and confidentiality.

With our handy general transcriptionist job description template and real-world examples, you’re all set to make your move.

But why stop there?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating tailor-made job listings or perfecting your resume.

Remember:

Every transcribed word contributes to the bigger picture.

Let’s transcribe that future. Together.

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