Municipal Clerk

Print

Work Tasks

MUNICIPAL CLERKS have become the hubs of government - the direct line between the people of the community and their local authorities. They perform a variety of clerical and administrative duties. Municipal clerks prepare draft agendas or bylaws for the town and city councils, record minutes of council meetings, answer official correspondence, keep fiscal records and accounts, and prepare reports on civic needs. Municipal clerks provide various kinds of information to the public, such as easement and right of way; public hearings; foreclosures; local, state, and national elections; city code and ordinance information; and figures regarding projects. They help with information on cemetery maps, plots, and deeds; and contracts, leases, permits, licenses, and agreements.

Salary, Size & Growth

• $43,000 average per year ($20.75 per hour)
• A medium occupation (123,500 workers in 2010)
• Expected to grow moderately (0.8% per year)

Entry Requirements

Employers generally require applicants for MUNICIPAL CLERK positions to have at least a high school diploma or its equivalent. Knowledge of word processing and spreadsheet software is an asset and most employers prefer workers who are computer literate. Municipal clerks often learn the skills they need in high schools, business schools, and community colleges that have business education programs. Some employers prefer to hire those with a higher level of education. Once hired, municipal clerks usually receive on-the-job training.