Job Description Help for Job Description. Opens a new window. Duties Operate office machines, such as photocopiers and scanners, facsimile machines, voice mail systems, and personal computers. Answer telephones, direct calls, and take messages. Communicate with customers, employees, and other individuals to answer questions, disseminate or explain information, take orders, and address complaints. Maintain and update filing, inventory, mailing, and database systems, either manually or using a computer. Compile, copy, sort, and file records of office activities, business transactions, and other activities.