How To Become A Data Entry Operator: What It Is and Career Path

What is a data entry operator and how to become one

Updated January 8, 2025

4 min read

A data entry operator inputs data into computer systems. Their duties may include entering customer information, financial data, or medical records. They must ensure the accuracy and completeness of the data they enter while also maintaining the confidentiality and security of sensitive information. Data entry operators often work in office settings and use specialized software and equipment to complete their tasks efficiently. Attention to detail and the ability to work independently are essential for this position.

ScoreData Entry OperatorUS Average

Salary

2.4

Avg. Salary $31,286

Avg. Salary $59,228

Diversity

9.1

Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 0.57%

Asian 8.60%

Black or African American 10.40%

Hispanic or Latino 20.55%

Unknown 4.18%

White 55.69%

Gender

female 80.78%

male 19.22%

Age - 44

Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 3.00%

Asian 7.00%

Black or African American 14.00%

Hispanic or Latino 19.00%

White 57.00%

Gender

female 47.00%

male 53.00%

Age - 44

Stress level

5.5

Stress level is manageable

7.1 - high

Complexity level

10.0

Complexity level is advanced

7 - challenging

Work life balance

8.4

Work life balance is good

6.4 - fair

What are the pros and cons of being a data entry operator?

Pros

Provides steady and reliable income
Requires minimal educational qualifications
Can work from home
Improves typing and computer skills
Minimal physical labor involved

Cons

Requires long hours of sitting in front of a computer screen
Limited job security and benefits
May involve working weekends, holidays, or overtime
Requires constant learning and upgrading of skills to stay relevant in the job market
Can be mentally exhausting to maintain focus and attention to detail for extended periods.

Key steps to become a data entry operator

Explore data entry operator education requirements

Most common data entry operator degrees

Bachelor's

29.5 %

High School Diploma

26.3 %

Associate

25.3 %

Start to develop specific data entry operator skills

Skills	Percentages
Data Entry Equipment	20.02%
Customer Service	13.74%
Computer Database	11.53%
Computer System	6.07%
Office Equipment	4.30%

Complete relevant data entry operator training and internships

Accountants spend an average of 1-3 months on post-employment, on-the-job training. New data entry operators learn the skills and techniques required for their job and employer during this time. The chart below shows how long it takes to gain competency as a data entry operator based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real data entry operator resumes.

Research data entry operator duties and 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.

Prepare your data entry operator resume

When your background is strong enough, you can start writing your data entry operator resume.

You can use Zippia's AI resume builder to make the resume writing process easier while also making sure that you include key information that hiring managers expect to see on a data entry operator resume. You'll find resume tips and examples of skills, responsibilities, and summaries, all provided by Zippi, your career sidekick.

Choose from 10+ customizable data entry operator resume templates

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