Work Environment
This occupation is typically found in the following Career Sector(s):
Videos on the Web
- Data Entry Operator- from: Youtube Search
Most commonly reported Work Activities
- Interacting With Computers Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
- Processing Information Compiling, coding, categorising, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
- Documenting/Recording Information Entering, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
- Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
- Getting Information Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
- Making Decisions and Solving Problems Analysing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
- Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
- Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.
- Performing Administrative Activities Performing day-to-day administrative tasks such as maintaining information files and processing paperwork.
- Organising, Planning, and Prioritising Work Developing specific goals and plans to prioritise, organise, and accomplish your work.
Working Life
Responsible for reading the source or input document and entering the relevant data via the keyboard. Normally, the information entered appears on a screen to facilitate checking and error correction.
Data Entry Staff usually operate a broad job description within a company. The data input aspect of their job is closely linked to their overall task. Examples include the banking and insurance industries.
Information may be entered directly into a computer system, stored on disc or other intermediate storage device external to the computer, or remotely.
A data input operator uses a database to store information, and other applications such as spreadsheets.
Most commonly reported Work Tasks
- Locate and correct data entry errors, or report them to supervisors.
- Compile, sort, and verify the accuracy of data before it is entered.
- Compare data with source documents, or re-enter data in verification format to detect errors.
- Store completed documents in appropriate locations.
- Select materials needed to complete work assignments.
- Read 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.
- Maintain logs of activities and completed work.
- Load machines with required input or output media, such as paper, cards, disks, tape, or Braille media.
- Resolve garbled or indecipherable messages, using cryptographic procedures and equipment.
Further Information
- Data Entry Clerk- from: N.C.S. [UK]
Qualities - Data Entry Operator
You should be able to work quickly and accurately, often under pressure or to deadlines. The work can sometimes be monotonous but still needs good powers of concentration and attention to detail.
This work may present difficulties for anyone who suffers from eye strain or poor eyesight, because it involves constant use of a computer screen. You will also be dealing with a variety of paperwork.
You'll need to have good literacy and numeric skills. Ideally, you should also have a fairly logical mind and some understanding of how computers work.
This will enable you to use a variety of different databases and to cope with any day-to-day problems with the system you are using.
Interests - Data Entry Operator
This occupation is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests:
Administrative
Administrative people are interested in work that offers security and a sense of being part of a larger process. They may be at their most productive under supervisors who give clear guidelines and while performing routine tasks in a methodical and reliable way.
They tend to enjoy clerical and most forms of office work, where they perform essential administrative duties. They often form the backbone of large and small organisations alike. They may enjoy being in charge of office filing systems, and using computers and other office equipment to keep things running smoothly. They usually like routine work hours and prefer comfortable indoor workplaces.
Realist
Realists are usually interested in 'things' - such as buildings, mechanics, equipment, tools, electronics etc. Their primary focus is dealing with these - as in building, fixing, operating or designing them. Involvement in these areas leads to high manual skills, or a fine aptitude for practical design - as found in the various forms of engineering.
Realists like to find practical solutions to problems using tools, technology and skilled work. Realists usually prefer to be active in their work environment, often do most of their work alone, and enjoy taking decisive action with a minimum amount of discussion and paperwork.
Entry / Progression - Data Entry Operator
If you want to work as a Data Entry Operator, you need to know how to use computers and enter data accurately and efficiently. Different companies have different hiring processes, but most of them will ask you to take a test and an interview to assess your skills and suitability. Having good keyboard and administrative skills will help you stand out from other candidates.
A wide range of courses are available countrywide in areas such as Information Technology and Office Skills, Computing Skills, and Computer Applications.
Sample Education and Training Pathways
A number of courses are available throughout the country that focus on learning and skills that may be useful for this career. The examples and links below may guide you in your research.
Further Education (FET)
Further Education & Training (FET) Courses are delivered by local ETBs, ranging in duration from several weeks up to 20 months. Courses are designed to meet the labour market needs and often include a large element of work experience.
Example search terms include: business, office administration, ICT skills.
Search for FET Courses
PLC Courses (FET)
PLC courses are full-time courses, one or two years duration, with awards at Level 5 and 6 on the NFQ. They are offered nationally in Schools and Colleges of Further Education.
Example search terms include: data management, data science, data analytics.
Search for PLC Courses
Apprenticeships:
Apprenticeships are structured work-based training programs that combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction. They run from 2 – 4 years and are open to individuals of all ages, including school leavers, those seeking a career change, and existing employees who wish to upskill.
Examples: Apprentice Software Developer.
Search for Apprenticeships
Higher Education CAO (Undergraduate)
Higher Education courses at Levels 6 to 8 on the NFQ, delivered in Universities and Technological Universities & Institutes. Courses run from 2 – 5 years and places are allocated on a points-based system, processed by the Central Application Office.
Example search terms include: data science, data analytics.
Search for CAO Courses
Data skills conversion programmes full, part time, or online, search Springboard Courses.
Professional Development
Professional development (CPD) courses are specialised training, formal education, or advanced professional learning that improves skills, professional knowledge, competency, and overall effectiveness in the professional world.
Check the Useful Contacts tab on this page to see if there are any professional bodies listed who may provide training related to this career.
Pay & Salary - Data Entry Operator
Salary Range (thousands per year)* €26k - €35k
Salaries vary by employer, duties, role, experience, and location.
Data Source(s):
CPL / Morgan McKinley/ Indeed
Last Updated: February, 2024
Labour Market Updates - Data Entry Operator
Note: The following information relates to occupations that include: Records clerks and assistants; Library clerks; Assistants Human resources; administrative occupations; Sales administrators; Other administrative occupations n.e.c.
This information has been derived from the Solas National Skills Bulletin (2023).
This is the largest of the administrative occupations, with employment spread across all sectors of the economy. Employment grew strongly between 2019 and 2020 but has only seen marginal growth in employment levels since then. Despite this, there was a high level of recent job hires indicating that job churn is a significant feature of this occupation.
Skills for Growth data points to some difficulties in filling a small number of administrator roles where skills such as digital, numerical, MS Office, and communications were in particular demand. Job opportunities are likely to continue for this role given its large size and the demand across sectors, even if employment rs as demand for skills outstrips supply across occupations.
