Gofers

Gofer, also spelled go-for or gofer, refers to a person employed to perform errands and routine tasks for others. The term is commonly used in North American English and denotes someone who fetches items, delivers messages, and handles small administrative duties to support more senior staff. Gofer work is often considered entry-level and may be part of broader assistant roles.

Origins and usage

The word derives from the phrase "go for," indicating the action of going to obtain or fetch something. While gofer is a standard spelling, some contexts use go-for or go-for-er, and regional preferences can vary. The plural form gofers is widely used, though hyphenated or alternative spellings may appear in different organizations.

Typical duties and contexts

Gofers perform a range of tasks that helps teams operate smoothly. Common duties include running errands, delivering items within a workplace, obtaining supplies, making copies, setting up equipment, organizing deliveries, and assisting with light administrative duties. In film and television production, gofers (often part of the production assistant cadre) may fetch wardrobe, equipment, meals, or messages and help coordinate small logistics on set. In offices and other workplaces, the role may be filled by interns, junior assistants, or run-on errands by administrative staff.

distinctions

The term should not be confused with gopher, the rodent. In professional writing, gofer is used to describe a person performing errands, whereas gopher or gopher (animal) refers to the animal.

See also

Production assistant, administrative assistant, office runner, personal assistant.