Duties and Tasks

Transcript typists may perform the following tasks:

• operate and monitor sound equipment which records all spoken words
• list the speakers in the court proceedings and log major events
• record proceedings using a Qwerty (computer) keyboard or a stenotype machine
• use computer-aided transcription (CAT) which translates the shorthand recorded by the stenotype machine onto a computer screen
• transcribe audio recordings onto computer
• research terminology used
• edit the transcript for syntax and grammar
• read back portions of notes or replay a recording on request.

Specialisations

Court Recorder
Hansard Reporter
Stenocaptioner
Real-time Reporter (Computer Assisted Real-Time)
Captioner

Work Conditions

Handwritten shorthand has been replaced by the stenotype machine or sound recording. All spoken words are recorded and checked either on paper or computer.

Sound recording involves three stages: first, monitors record the proceedings using a sound recording (audio) system; then audio typists transcribe the audio file/tape onto computers; and finally transcript checkers edit the hard copy. Audio typists need a minimum typing speed of 75 words per minute.

Court recorders and Hansard (parliament) reporters work in teams and take turns in reporting. Court recorders usually work during court hours. Hansard reporters work long, irregular hours. Reporters can advance to senior positions that involve editorial and administrative responsibilities.

Stenocaptioners and captioners work shifts to cover television programming, usually at the originating television station's premises. Real-Time (CART) reporters work in different locations, for example, a courtroom, university campus, boardroom or conference.

Machine shorthand reporters need a speed of at least 200 words per minute.

All kinds of reporting and some captioning work is conducted under considerable time constraints.

Personal Requirements

• good hearing and concentration
• fast and accurate machine shorthand and/or keyboard skills
• able to work under pressure
• wide vocabulary, and sound knowledge of spelling, grammar and punctuation
• broad general knowledge, particularly in current affairs and politics
• interested in parliament and courts and their procedures
• comfortable with new technology
• able to recognise and quickly identify environmental sounds.

Related Industries

Administrative Services

Labour Market

Information

Australian JobOutlook for Court and Hansard Reporters

Vacancies

Australian JobSearch for Court and Hansard Reporters (ALL AUSTRALIA)
Work Opportunities websites

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