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Data Entry Keyers

Also called: Data Capture Specialist, Data Entry Clerk, Data Entry Operator, Data Transcriber

Typical education
High school diploma
59% of workers surveyed
Preparation needed
Very Little to Some Preparation Needed
Job Zone 2 of 5
Programs in this directory
583
that lead to this career

What data entry keyers do

Operate data entry device, such as keyboard or photo composing perforator. Duties may include verifying data and preparing materials for printing.

Typical tasks

  1. 1Locate and correct data entry errors, or report them to supervisors.
  2. 2Compile, sort, and verify the accuracy of data before it is entered.
  3. 3Compare data with source documents, or re-enter data in verification format to detect errors.
  4. 4Store completed documents in appropriate locations.
  5. 5Select materials needed to complete work assignments.
  6. 6Read source documents such as canceled checks, sales reports, or bills, and enter data in specific data fields or onto tapes or disks for subsequent entry, using keyboards or scanners.
  7. 7Maintain logs of activities and completed work.
  8. 8Load machines with required input or output media, such as paper, cards, disks, tape, or Braille media.
  9. 9Resolve garbled or indecipherable messages, using cryptographic procedures and equipment.

Key skills

  • Reading Comprehension3.6/5
  • Active Listening3.4/5
  • Monitoring3.2/5
  • Time Management3.0/5
  • Writing3.0/5

Importance rated by workers in this career (1–5).

Knowledge areas

  • English Language4.8/5
  • Administrative4.6/5
  • Customer and Personal Service3.6/5
  • Law and Government3.5/5

Importance rated by workers in this career (1–5).

Technology used

  • Microsoft Excel
  • Microsoft Office software
  • Microsoft Outlook
  • Microsoft Word
  • Google Docs
  • Intuit QuickBooks
  • Microsoft Access
  • Microsoft PowerPoint
  • SAP software

How to become one

Education
The most common level among workers surveyed is a high school diploma (59%). Usually requires a high school diploma or GED, though some occupations may not.
Experience
Some occupations may need little or no previous experience; others require several months to a year of experience. For example, landscaping and groundskeeping workers might require very little training or previous experience, while agricultural equipment operators can benefit from on-the job training.
Training
Ranges from a few days to one year of on-the-job training.

Where to study

Subjects that prepare for this career:

Showing 12 of 583 matching programs.

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High school diploma

This page includes information from O*NET OnLine by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. We have modified some of this information; USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed or tested these modifications. Programs are linked with the CIP–SOC crosswalk from the U.S. Department of Education (NCES). Education levels and preparation describe the United States and may differ in other countries.

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