Data entry operator vs computer operator

The differences between data entry operators and computer operators 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 operator and a computer operator. Additionally, a computer operator has an average salary of $42,722, which is higher than the $31,286 average annual salary of a data entry operator.

The top three skills for a data entry operator include data entry equipment, customer service and computer database. The most important skills for a computer operator are CAD, customer service, and computer system.

Data entry operator vs computer operator overview

	Data Entry Operator	Computer Operator
Yearly salary	$31,286	$42,722
Hourly rate	$15.04	$20.54
Growth rate	-	10%
Number of jobs	93,965	39,579
Job satisfaction	-	-
Most common degree	Bachelor's Degree, 29%	Bachelor's Degree, 38%
Average age	44	43
Years of experience	2	2

What does a data entry operator do?

A data entry operator is someone responsible for entering collected information into a database using different computer software. Data entry duties include updating customer data, transcribing information, and entering accounting records. Also, it is their responsibility to organize collected data and maintain their accurate record on the database so it can be accessed at any time. Data operators must be proficient in typing skills, keen to details and able to manage a large amount of data. They must also be familiar with using spreadsheets, along with other word processing programs.

What does a computer operator do?

A computer operator is responsible for overseeing a network or group of computers, making sure that all systems are running smoothly and efficiently. A computer operator's duties may also revolve around troubleshooting and resolving issues on hardware and software, processing data, designing a particular and secure database, and suggesting system improvements when necessary. Furthermore, there must be an active line of communication and coordination with the other staff or management, as most of the work will revolve around a team setting.

Data entry operator vs computer operator salary

Data entry operators and computer operators have different pay scales, as shown below.

	Data Entry Operator	Computer Operator
Average salary	$31,286	$42,722
Salary range	Between $24,000 And $40,000	Between $28,000 And $63,000
Highest paying City	Seattle, WA	New York, NY
Highest paying state	Washington	New York
Best paying company	Intelliswift	NTT Data International L.L.C.
Best paying industry	Finance	Technology

Differences between data entry operator and computer operator education

There are a few differences between a data entry operator and a computer operator in terms of educational background:

	Data Entry Operator	Computer Operator
Most common degree	Bachelor's Degree, 29%	Bachelor's Degree, 38%
Most common major	Business	Computer Science
Most common college	-	Stanford University

Data entry operator vs computer operator demographics

Here are the differences between data entry operators' and computer operators' demographics:

	Data Entry Operator	Computer Operator
Average age	44	43
Gender ratio	Male, 19.2% Female, 80.8%	Male, 66.0% Female, 34.0%
Race ratio	Black or African American, 10.4% Unknown, 4.2% Hispanic or Latino, 20.6% Asian, 8.6% White, 55.7% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.6%	Black or African American, 8.6% Unknown, 4.9% Hispanic or Latino, 9.9% Asian, 12.3% White, 63.8% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.6%
LGBT Percentage	5%	10%

Differences between data entry operator and computer operator duties and responsibilities

Data entry operator example responsibilities.

Provide support for UNIX, NT and mainframe systems.
Cleanse the sales force data and customer complaint reports using Java.
Write basic Unix shell scripts and commands as part of the daily activity.
Proofread output generate for completeness, print quality, spelling, punctuation, and format.
Enter data from source documents into computer using keyboard at a typing speed of 50 wpm.
Interact with DBA to discuss database design and modeling, index creations and SQL tuning issues.

Computer operator example responsibilities.

Manage and control administration on DoD local, and wide area networks.
Manage peripheral operations of BARR systems (PC base RJE workstations), storage devices, and Litton laser printers.
Manage certificate revocation list, update expired certificates, ensuring DMS availability.
Manage multi-person team providing operational and investigative support to USAF and DoD counterparts.
Perform operator tasks, troubleshoot IMS, hardware, and system problems.
Serve in computer operations in supporting mainframe MVS, TPF, and VM operating systems.

Data entry operator vs computer operator skills

Common data entry operator skills

Data Entry Equipment, 20%
Customer Service, 14%
Computer Database, 12%
Computer System, 6%
Office Equipment, 4%
WPM, 4%

Common computer operator skills

CAD, 18%
Customer Service, 10%
Computer System, 9%
IBM Mainframe, 6%
Laser Printers, 4%
Unix, 4%

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Data Entry Operator
Data Entry Operator vs Computer Operator

Updated January 8, 2025

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