Data processor vs controller

The differences between data processors and controllers can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. While it typically takes 1-2 years to become a data processor, becoming a controller takes usually requires 6-8 years. Additionally, a controller has an average salary of $101,204, which is higher than the $33,076 average annual salary of a data processor.

The top three skills for a data processor include computer database, data processing and financial data. The most important skills for a controller are CPA, payroll processing, and reconciliations.

Data processor vs controller overview

	Data Processor	Controller
Yearly salary	$33,076	$101,204
Hourly rate	$15.90	$48.66
Growth rate	-	17%
Number of jobs	92,954	75,440
Job satisfaction	-	-
Most common degree	Bachelor's Degree, 40%	Bachelor's Degree, 75%
Average age	44	46
Years of experience	2	8

What does a data processor do?

A data processor is responsible for encoding various information to the organization's database, originating from either manual or electronic communications. Data processors must be highly detail-oriented, especially on analyzing the completeness of data before uploading it to the system. In some cases, a data processor performs in-depth research to verify the authenticity of the information. A data processor should have excellent typing skills and knowledge with office software tools to create proper formatting and ensure accuracy for easy comprehension.

What does a controller do?

Controllers are employees in the accounting department who manage the finances of the organization. They are involved in the budget setting activity at the start of the company's fiscal year. Controllers are responsible for ensuring that all departments work within their respective budgets. They have the power to recommend budget cuts due to any unforeseen circumstances that may happen. They also have the ability to veto or forego budget items. Controllers should have accounting skills and auditing skills. They must also be trustworthy and should work with integrity.

Data processor vs controller salary

Data processors and controllers have different pay scales, as shown below.

	Data Processor	Controller
Average salary	$33,076	$101,204
Salary range	Between $26,000 And $40,000	Between $70,000 And $144,000
Highest paying City	Los Angeles, CA	Portland, ME
Highest paying state	Alaska	New York
Best paying company	AECOM	Perkins Coie
Best paying industry	Technology	Technology

Differences between data processor and controller education

There are a few differences between a data processor and a controller in terms of educational background:

	Data Processor	Controller
Most common degree	Bachelor's Degree, 40%	Bachelor's Degree, 75%
Most common major	Business	Accounting
Most common college	-	University of Pennsylvania

Data processor vs controller demographics

Here are the differences between data processors' and controllers' demographics:

	Data Processor	Controller
Average age	44	46
Gender ratio	Male, 31.2% Female, 68.8%	Male, 58.9% Female, 41.1%
Race ratio	Black or African American, 9.9% Unknown, 4.2% Hispanic or Latino, 20.7% Asian, 8.5% White, 56.1% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.6%	Black or African American, 7.7% Unknown, 4.1% Hispanic or Latino, 14.8% Asian, 9.4% White, 63.7% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.3%
LGBT Percentage	5%	11%

Differences between data processor and controller duties and responsibilities

Data processor example responsibilities.

Manage and prepare pharmaceutical records for multiple FDA audits.
Research the CPT coding manual and edit reference codes from CMS.
Utilize knowledge of diagnosis codes and CPT codes to prevent denial of claim.
Process Medicare and Medicaid papers.
Enter data information about insurance claims for Medicaid.
Demonstrate understanding of HIPAA laws and ability to maintain confidentiality.

Show more

Controller example responsibilities.

Manage NAV production, calculation of performance fees, IFRS accounts and subscription/redemption analysis.
Lead transition of company from sole proprietor to NYSE list company subsidiary, including implementing new financial reporting system.
Manage a team of junior staff accountants and maintaining quality control throughout the entire monthly billing, A/P & A/R processes.
Manage treasury, open several new accounts, establish new procedures and controls, monitor daily activity.
Produce monthly account reconciliations, post monthly journal entries and review, analyze, correct and issue monthly comparative financial statements.
Perform accounting research and special projects as required including cash flow analysis, cost projections, reconciliations and other financial analysis.

Show more

Data processor vs controller skills

Common data processor skills

Computer Database, 18%
Data Processing, 16%
Financial Data, 5%
Data Entry, 5%
Computer System, 5%
QC, 5%

Common controller skills

CPA, 8%
Payroll Processing, 7%
Reconciliations, 6%
Cash Management, 5%
Internal Controls, 5%
GAAP, 5%

Data Processor vs. similar jobs

Data Processor related careers

Data Processor related jobs

What similar roles do

Updated January 8, 2025

Browse office and administrative jobs

A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z