With the exception of library assistants and bookmobile drivers, record clerks typically are employed in an office environment. Most work alongside their organization's other clerical workers, but some record clerks work in centralized units away from the front office. Clerks who review detailed data may have to sit for extended periods of time. Although they do not do heavy lifting, file clerks and library assistants spend a lot of time on their feet and frequently stoop, bend and reach. Bookmobile drivers must maneuver large vehicles in all kinds of traffic and weather conditions, and may also be responsible for the maintenance of the bookmobile.
Most record clerks work regular business hours.
Library assistants may work evenings and weekends, but those employed in school libraries generally work only during the school year. Accounting clerks may work longer hours to meet deadlines at the end of the fiscal year, during tax time, or when monthly and yearly accounting audits are performed. Billing, bookkeeping and accounting clerks in hotels, restaurants and stores may work overtime during peak holiday and vacation seasons. Similarly, order clerks in retail establishments typically work overtime during these seasons, when sales volume is high. Brokerage clerks may also have to work overtime, if there is a high volume of activity in the stock or bond markets.