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Data entry assistant vs clerk

The differences between data entry assistants and clerks can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. It typically takes 1-2 years to become both a data entry assistant and a clerk. Additionally, a data entry assistant has an average salary of $33,251, which is higher than the $31,163 average annual salary of a clerk.

The top three skills for a data entry assistant include company database, re-enter data and computer system. The most important skills for a clerk are basic math, math, and data entry.

Data entry assistant vs clerk overview

Data Entry AssistantClerk
Yearly salary$33,251$31,163
Hourly rate$15.99$14.98
Growth rate-8%-5%
Number of jobs86,98980,311
Job satisfaction--
Most common degreeBachelor's Degree, 46%Bachelor's Degree, 33%
Average age4447
Years of experience22

What does a data entry assistant do?

A data entry assistant is responsible for performing data entry procedures, updating customer information, as well as logging business transactions on the company's database accurately and efficiently. Data entry assistants compile and sort documents, escalating incomplete information for verification, and following the business' procedures on disposing and eliminating unnecessary data. They also provide administrative and clerical support on office operations, including assisting visitors on their needs or directing them to the appropriate personnel for their concerns. A data entry assistant maintains a safe and secured database and immediately call for support in case of unauthorized access and system inconsistencies.

What does a clerk do?

Clerks are responsible for many of the general administrative tasks in the office. They are in charge of manning office telephone lines, managing incoming and outgoing mails, filing paperwork and other needed records, scheduling and documenting meetings, typing out documents when needed, disseminating memos and other official announcements, and keeping an inventory of office equipment and supplies. Clerks should have good office skills, communication skills, business writing skills, and time management skills. They should also be able to treat any document or paperwork they handle with confidentiality.

Data entry assistant vs clerk salary

Data entry assistants and clerks have different pay scales, as shown below.

Data Entry AssistantClerk
Average salary$33,251$31,163
Salary rangeBetween $27,000 And $40,000Between $24,000 And $39,000
Highest paying CityBeaverton, ORWashington, DC
Highest paying stateAlaskaNew Hampshire
Best paying companyALDI USAUniversity of Massachusetts Boston
Best paying industryManufacturingHealth Care

Differences between data entry assistant and clerk education

There are a few differences between a data entry assistant and a clerk in terms of educational background:

Data Entry AssistantClerk
Most common degreeBachelor's Degree, 46%Bachelor's Degree, 33%
Most common majorBusinessBusiness
Most common college-Western Carolina University

Data entry assistant vs clerk demographics

Here are the differences between data entry assistants' and clerks' demographics:

Data Entry AssistantClerk
Average age4447
Gender ratioMale, 23.1% Female, 76.9%Male, 34.1% Female, 65.9%
Race ratioBlack or African American, 9.5% Unknown, 4.4% Hispanic or Latino, 23.3% Asian, 8.9% White, 53.2% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.6%Black or African American, 9.9% Unknown, 4.7% Hispanic or Latino, 21.1% Asian, 7.7% White, 55.6% American Indian and Alaska Native, 1.1%
LGBT Percentage5%6%

Differences between data entry assistant and clerk duties and responsibilities

Data entry assistant example responsibilities.

  • Manage client s files and communicate confidential information to approve agencies and caregivers according to HIPAA regulations.
  • Design PowerPoint presentation for lobby and update as needed.
  • Prepare written materials for supervisor s use including spreadsheets, PowerPoint presentations, and reports.
  • Conduct customer and billing data entry for invoice and payment processing using QuickBooks financial management & account software.
  • Patrol outer perimeter to prevent and detect signs of intrusion and ensure security of doors, windows and gates.
  • Record monthly financial transactions in QuickBooks.
  • Show more

Clerk example responsibilities.

  • Demonstrate strong math skills in managing inmate s accounts and calmly and effectively deescalating outbursts of belligerent inmates.
  • Manage orthopedic accounts regarding payment posting through IDX medical systems.
  • Administer financial bookkeeping by way of QuickBooks.
  • Bank reconciliation in QuickBooks and assist bookkeeper when need.
  • Maintain a high level of confidentiality as required by HIPAA.
  • Call DMV's and dealerships when liens are not perfect.
  • Show more

Data entry assistant vs clerk skills

Common data entry assistant skills
  • Company Database, 20%
  • Re-Enter Data, 11%
  • Computer System, 6%
  • HR, 5%
  • Payroll, 5%
  • Office Equipment, 4%
Common clerk skills
  • Basic Math, 18%
  • Math, 10%
  • Data Entry, 10%
  • Customer Service, 9%
  • Cleanliness, 8%
  • POS, 5%

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