WORD PROCESSING SPECIALIST 2
Career Family: WORD PROCESSING SPECIALIST
Word Processing Specialist 2 sits in the competitive class of New Jersey's state civil service, so reaching it runs through testing and an eligible list instead of a straight hire.
It sits mid-series for Word Processing Specialist, one step up from Word Processing Specialist 3 and one below Word Processing Specialist 1. It asks for 2 years of relevant experience. Pay on the FY2027 schedule runs $46,727 to $67,528.
How to apply
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Exam
This is an application to sit an exam and be placed on an eligible list for this title, not an application for a specific job. A $35 application fee applies to Non-Public-Safety announcements issued on or after 2026-02-01. There may be no current vacancy behind it, and the list it produces may not be certified for months or years.
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Exam
Open to permanent employees in the competitive division who hold a qualifying lower title in the same unit. A $35 application fee applies to Non-Public-Safety announcements issued on or after 2026-02-01. Like the open competitive exam, this places you on a list; it is not itself a job offer.
Pay ladder: Word Processing Specialist series
- Word Processing Specialist 3 — $39,358 – $56,481
- Word Processing Specialist 2 — $46,727 – $67,528 (this title)
- Word Processing Specialist 1 — $50,990 – $73,902
Promoting to Word Processing Specialist 1 raises the top of the band by about $6,374. Its top salary lands around the 13th percentile of all NJ civil service titles that publish a range.
Rungs are ordered by FY2027 pay. NJ level numbers are not always sequential, so ordering follows salary rather than the title number.
Official job specification
The text below is the official specification published by the New Jersey Civil Service Commission. The plain-language summary and analysis above are derived from it by NJ Civil Service Navigator.
Definition
Under direction of an administrative officer, Supervisor, Word Processing System, or Manager, Word Processing System, Word Processing Specialist 1, in a state department or agency operates sophisticated, highly technical magnetic media keyboard equipment performing work of a frequently complex nature. Accomplishes varied word processing work requiring the exercise of considerable independent judgment and a wide knowledge of department policies and procedures while maintaining a high level of productivity. May assist in the supervision of the work of other word processing employees; does related work as required.
Examples of work
Organizes assigned word processing work, analyzes the problems which arise therein, and develops effective work methods. May assign, instruct, and supervise the work performance of Word Processing Specialist Trainees, Word Processing Specialist 3's and clerical employees assigned to word processing systems. Designs, organizes, and develops records and schedules of production programs and monitors the flow of work through the system. Operates transcription equipment and sophisticated, highly technical, magnetic media keyboarding equipment within complete machine capabilities to create or revise frequently complex documents such as multiple-page reports, multi-columnar tabulations, legal documents, correspondence, and forms involving varied technical terminology in a timely manner. Assists in the maintenance of electronic files and uses electronic files to retrieve information to process special reports; e.g., personnel records, inventory control, budget control, and/or alphabetic/numeric listings. Proofreads work and assumes full responsibility for the accuracy and completeness of documents produced. Prepares and maintains a log with subject content, media coding, and any other special data or instructions concerning the document. Types confidential material. Assists in the maintenance of standardized document binders. Assists in the training of new personnel. Prepares and maintains essential records and files. Will be required to learn to utilize various types of electronic and/or manual recording and computerized information systems used by the agency, office, or related units.
Experience
Two (2) years of experience in the operation, technology, and application of varied word processing equipment.
License
Appointees will be required to possess a driver's license valid in New Jersey only if the operation of a vehicle, rather than employee mobility, is necessary to perform the essential duties of the position.
Knowledge, skills and abilities
Knowledge of the operation, technology, and application of varied word processing equipment. Knowledge of modern office methods, practices, routines, machines, and equipment, and of the internal organization, policies, procedures, and regulations of the department or agency. Knowledge of statistical and technical formats. Knowledge of proofreader's marks. Ability to comprehend established office routines and regulations and apply them to specific tasks in accordance with prescribed procedures. Ability to properly use and care for office machines and equipment. Ability to understand, remember, and carry out oral and written directions. Ability to organize word processing projects/assignments and develop effective work methods. Ability to oversee and instruct word processing employees in the performance of their work. Ability to use proper English and to spell correctly. Ability to process projects with speed, accuracy, and neatness from a variety of input source material. Ability to accurately proofread and correct processed work. Ability to sustain mental attention for long periods of time. Ability to exercise independent judgement when interpreting instructions to produce a quality document. Ability to maintain essential records and files. Ability to learn to utilize various types of electronic and/or manual recording and information systems used by the agency, office, or related units. Ability to read, write, speak, understand, or communicate in English sufficiently to perform the duties of this position. American Sign Language or Braille may also be considered as acceptable forms of communication. Persons with mental or physical disabilities are eligible as long as they can perform the essential functions of the job after reasonable accommodation is made to their known limitations. If the accommodation cannot be made because it would cause the employer undue hardship, such persons may not be eligible.