Data Entry and Information Processing Workers

• Education and Training
• Job Outlook
• Earnings
• Related Occupations
• Sources of Additional Information

Nature of the Work About this section

Data entry and information processing workers enter data into a computer, operate a variety of office machines, and perform other clerical or administrative duties. Data entry and information processing workers also are known as word processors, typists, and data entry keyers, or, less commonly, electronic data processors, keypunch technicians, and transcribers. Word processors and typists set up and prepare reports, letters, mailing labels, and other text material. Some may work with highly technical material, plan and key complicated statistical tables, combine and rearrange materials from different sources, or prepare master copies. Data entry keyers input lists of items, numbers, or other data, e.g., customers' personal information, medical records, or membership lists, into computers or complete forms that appear on a computer screen. They also may reformat existing data, edit current information, or proofread new entries for accuracy. Data entry keyers may use scanners, electronically transmitted files, or other forms of character recognition systems. Generally, these employees work standard workdays, but technology allows many to work from remote locations, including home, or during off hours when processing demands are less.

Education and Training About this section

Many data entry and information processing workers are hired right out of high school and trained on the job. Spelling, punctuation, and grammar skills are important, as is familiarity with standard office equipment and procedures. Students may acquire skills in keyboarding and in the use of word processing, spreadsheet, and database management software in high schools, community colleges, business schools, temporary help agencies, or using self-teaching aids such as books, tapes, and Internet tutorials.

Job Outlook About this section

Current and Projected Employment.

Employment change. Employment of data entry and information processing workers is expected to decline moderately. Improved technologies and greater social acceptance of workers performing their own data entry and information processing work will lessen the need for these workers, except for highly detailed or sophisticated work.

Job prospects. The need to replace workers who transfer to other occupations or leave this large occupation for other reasons will produce numerous job openings each year. Job prospects will be most favorable for those with the best technical skills and be willing to upgrade their skills continuously in order to remain marketable.

Earnings About this section

Median annual wages in May 2008 were as follows:

For current wage data, visit the Occupational Employment Statistics program's Occupational Profiles for data entry keyers and word processors and typists.

Related Occupations About this section

Computer operators; Dispatchers, except police, fire, and ambulance; Medical records and health information technicians; Police, fire, and ambulance dispatchers; Secretaries and administrative assistants.

Sources of Additional Information About this section

Disclaimer:

Links to non-BLS Internet sites are provided for your convenience and do not constitute an endorsement.

• International Association of Administrative Professionals, P.O. Box 20404, Kansas City, MO 64195. Internet: http://www.iaap-hq.org

O*NET-SOC Code Coverage About this section

Get more information from O*NET—the Occupational Information Network:

O*NET provides comprehensive information on key characteristics of workers and occupations. For information on a specific occupation, select the appropriate link below. For more information on O*NET, visit their homepage.

Data Entry Keyers (43-9021.00) Word Processors and Typists (43-9022.00)

 

Last Modified Date: December 17, 2009