Data Entry Clerk
Impact: Data accuracy, Operational efficiency
Accurately inputs and maintains various types of data into computer systems and databases. Organizes and verifies information to ensure data integrity and accessibility for organizational needs.
In their words
The work can be repetitive, but it's crucial for keeping operations running smoothly. Accuracy is paramount, and a good eye for detail is essential. It's a solid entry point into office work, offering a clear path to develop foundational administrative skills.
What the day looks like
- People interaction
- Moderate
- Team vs solo
- 60% Solo / 40% Team
- Client facing
- Rarely
- Impact visibility
- Low
- Travel
- Minimal
- Schedule flexibility
- Structured
- Remote work
- Hybrid
- Typical work hours
- 40 hours/week
- Stress level
- Low
At a glance
- Median salary
- $40,000
- Entry-level
- $30,000 - $35,000
- Senior
- $45,000+
- Growth by 2033
- -5% (declining)
- Demand
- Declining
- Freelance potential
- Moderate
- Salary growth potential
- Moderate 50-60% growth from entry to senior
- Typical student debt
- Minimal
Skills you'll use
Hard skills
- Typing
- Data Management
- Spreadsheet Software
- Database Entry
- Record Keeping
- Document Processing
Soft skills
- Attention to Detail
- Organization
- Time Management
- Accuracy
- Reliability
Technical complexity: Low
Tools you'll work with
Core tools
- Microsoft Excel (software): Data organization and analysis
- Microsoft Access (database): Database creation and management
- 10-key numeric keypad (hardware): Efficient numerical data input
Common tools
- Google Sheets (software): Cloud-based spreadsheet management
- CRM Software (e.g., Salesforce) (platform): Customer data entry and management
Niche tools
- ERP Systems (e.g., SAP) (platform): Enterprise resource planning data entry
How to get there
- Minimum education
- High School Diploma
- Licensing
- No
- Years to mid-career
- 2-4 years
- Years to senior
- 5-7 years
- Career switching
- Easy
Where this career leads
How people arrive here
- Office Assistant: Similar administrative skills, often involves basic data handling.
- Receptionist: Customer service and organizational skills transferable to data entry.
- Clerical Assistant: General office support with overlapping data management duties.
Where you can go from here
- Administrative Assistant: Expanded responsibilities including scheduling, correspondence, and project support.
- Database Administrator Assistant: More specialized role focusing on database maintenance and integrity.
- Records Manager: Overseeing the organization, storage, and retrieval of information.
Typical progression
- Entry Data Entry Clerk > Senior Data Entry Clerk > Administrative Assistant
Future outlook
- Automation probability
- 70% high risk due to repetitive tasks
- AI disruption risk
- High
- Demand trend
- Declining
How people feel about it
- Overall satisfaction
- 5.5/10
- Meaning
- 4/10
- Work-life balance
- 6.5/10
- Prestige
- 3.5/10
- Social perception
- Moderate
Find your community
Professional organisations
- International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP): Professional organization offering resources and certifications for administrative roles.
Reddit communities
- r/dataentry: Online community for data entry professionals to share tips and discuss challenges.
Online communities
- Administrative Professionals Forum: A forum for administrative professionals, including data entry specialists, to network and learn.
- Data Entry & Admin Support LinkedIn Group: A LinkedIn group for professionals in data entry and administrative support to connect.