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.
Data entry operator responsibilities
Here are examples of responsibilities from real data entry operator resumes:
- 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.
- Complete computer classes offer by BCBST for word, word processor, power point and Microsoft windows.
- Enter paper and reject claims to other job functions using rejection sheets and on-line routing using windows.
- Consult with company representatives concerning the details of the Frac job prior to beginning the pumping operations.
- Operate keyboard and other data entry device to enter data into computer or onto magnetic tape and disk.
- Control and run machines making personal customer cards such as; credit cards, gas cards, and membership cards.
- Transcribe data from source documents and proofread data enter with source documents for errors, missing/repeat data, and style rules.
- Create PowerPoint presentations for product demonstrations and installation to clients.
- Calculate and enter company payroll and labor reconciliation, inventory and billing reports.
- Demonstrate progression of department via PowerPoint program during staff meetings and conferences.
Data entry operator skills and personality traits
We calculated that 20% of Data Entry Operators are proficient in Data Entry Equipment, Customer Service, and Computer Database.
We break down the percentage of Data Entry Operators that have these skills listed on their resume here:
- Data Entry Equipment, 20%
Recorded data by operating data entry equipment; coding information; resolving processing problems.
- Customer Service, 14%
Data-entered magazine subscription information in a temporary position; was promoted to an out-call/customer service capacity to trouble-shoot with vendors.
- Computer Database, 12%
Entered airway bills onto the computer database efficiently and accurately to ensure proper processing of shipping and package delivery.
- Computer System, 6%
Processed alphanumeric information using a dedicated computer system to develop a digital fingerprint identification system for use by the FBI.
- Office Equipment, 4%
Sorted mail using a memorized scheme and used computerized office equipment.
- WPM, 4%
Applied logical interpretation of keying guidelines; Position required minimum typing speed of 30 wpm with 97% accuracy.
Common skills that a data entry operator uses to do their job include "data entry equipment," "customer service," and "computer database." You can find details on the most important data entry operator responsibilities below.
The three companies that hire the most data entry operators are:
- Conduent22 data entry operators jobs
- Change Healthcare20 data entry operators jobs
- NANA7 data entry operators jobs
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Data entry operator vs. Clerk
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.
There are some key differences in the responsibilities of each position. For example, data entry operator responsibilities require skills like "data entry equipment," "computer database," "wpm," and "detect errors." Meanwhile a typical clerk has skills in areas such as "basic math," "math," "data entry," and "cleanliness." This difference in skills reveals the differences in what each career does.
Clerks really shine in the health care industry with an average salary of $31,380. Comparatively, data entry operators tend to make the most money in the finance industry with an average salary of $38,543.clerks tend to reach similar levels of education than data entry operators. In fact, clerks are 0.2% less likely to graduate with a Master's Degree and 0.8% more likely to have a Doctoral Degree.Data entry operator vs. Office services clerk
An office services clerk is an individual employee who performs a multitude of administrative tasks as well as office maintenance duties of an organization. Office services clerks are required to maintain an inventory of office supplies as well as purchase and distribute office supplies to all employees when needed. They must manage office services staff to ensure that their duties are met efficiently and effectively. Office services clerks must also provide customer service to a wide range of customers by answering phones and responding to emails.
Each career also uses different skills, according to real data entry operator resumes. While data entry operator responsibilities can utilize skills like "data entry equipment," "computer database," "wpm," and "detect errors," office services clerks use skills like "office services," "data entry," "clerical support," and "proofreading."
Office services clerks earn a lower average salary than data entry operators. But office services clerks earn the highest pay in the utilities industry, with an average salary of $37,812. Additionally, data entry operators earn the highest salaries in the finance with average pay of $38,543 annually.office services clerks earn similar levels of education than data entry operators in general. They're 0.1% less likely to graduate with a Master's Degree and 0.8% more likely to earn a Doctoral Degree.Data entry operator vs. File clerk
File clerks are employees who do a variety of clerical and administrative tasks, usually related to documents in the office. They are responsible for the safekeeping of various files, records, or documents of the company. They keep track of records, ensure that documents are properly stored, and maintain a system of organizing files. They are also in charge of managing digital files and also assist in the digitization of hard copies of documents. They ensure that documentary records are updated and filed or uploaded accurately. File clerks should be organized, should have a keen eye for detail, and should be trustworthy.
The required skills of the two careers differ considerably. For example, data entry operators are more likely to have skills like "data entry equipment," "customer service," "computer database," and "wpm." But a file clerk is more likely to have skills like "data entry," "numerical order," "hr," and "patient charts."
File clerks earn the highest salary when working in the government industry, where they receive an average salary of $32,774. Comparatively, data entry operators have the highest earning potential in the finance industry, with an average salary of $38,543.Most file clerks achieve a similar degree level compared to data entry operators. For example, they're 0.9% less likely to graduate with a Master's Degree, and 0.6% less likely to earn a Doctoral Degree.Data entry operator vs. Room clerk
A room clerk is responsible for receiving guests and assigning them to their respective rooms, typically in a hotel setting. Room clerks manage guests' reservations, explain the policies of the premises, and process their payments for staying at the hotel. They also ensure the rooms' cleanliness, reaching out to the maintenance for any repairs and requests for additional room items. A room clerk must have excellent communication and customer service skills, respond to the customer's inquiries and concerns, and resolve service complaints immediately.
Even though a few skill sets overlap between data entry operators and room clerks, there are some differences that are important to note. For one, a data entry operator might have more use for skills like "data entry equipment," "computer database," "wpm," and "word processing." Meanwhile, some responsibilities of room clerks require skills like "data entry," "stock room," "purchase orders," and "inventory control. "
The government industry tends to pay the highest salaries for room clerks, with average annual pay of $33,014. Comparatively, the highest data entry operator annual salary comes from the finance industry.In general, room clerks hold similar degree levels compared to data entry operators. Room clerks are 0.7% less likely to earn their Master's Degree and 0.1% more likely to graduate with a Doctoral Degree.Types of data entry operator
Updated January 8, 2025











