Data Entry Keyers

O*NET 43-9021.00 · SOC 43-9021

Data Entry Keyer is a risky career choice. Median pay is $41k a year with -25.5% projected growth through 2035 (declining) and about 7,700 openings a year. AI exposure: High.

Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27

Projected Growth
+-25.5%
2025–2035
Median Salary
$41k
BLS OEWS, May 2025
Annual Openings
8k
positions/year
Education Level
Zone 2
Some preparation needed (high school or short training)

What You'd Actually Do

  • Enter customer information from paper forms into database fields
  • Verify data accuracy by comparing entered records to source documents
  • Key numerical data from invoices into accounting software
  • Correct data entry errors flagged during quality review checks
  • Maintain daily logs of records entered and batches completed

Education & How to Get In

🎓
Job Zone 2
Some preparation needed (high school or short training)

Data Entry Keyer roles typically require a high school diploma or equivalent, with most training happening on the job. This makes it one of the more accessible career paths — you can often start working while earning certifications or completing short-term training programs.

Get Started Learning

Ready to start building skills for a career as a Data Entry Keyer? These platforms offer courses you can start today — many with free trials or financial aid.

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Work Environment

Primary Setting

Structured — offices, data centers, or remote

Work Style

Independent — focused deep work with periodic team check-ins

A Day in the Life

While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Data Entry Keyer involves a mix of core responsibilities:

MorningEnter customer information from paper forms into database fields
MiddayVerify data accuracy by comparing entered records to source documents
AfternoonKey numerical data from invoices into accounting software

Personality Fit (RIASEC)

Conventional (Organizers)7.0
Realistic (Doers)3.0
Investigative (Thinkers)2.3
Enterprising (Persuaders)1.7
Social (Helpers)1.2
Artistic (Creators)1.0

Who Thrives as Data Entry Keyer?

Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering — personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.

ISTJThe InspectorESTJThe ExecutiveISFJThe ProtectorINTJThe Strategist

Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →

See Open Data Entry Keyer Roles

Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.

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Job Outlook

Employment of Data Entry Keyers is projected to decline 25.5% from 2025 to 2035, declining for all occupations.

Will AI Replace This Job?

90/100High disruption risk
  • ·71% routine cognitive tasks — high automation target
  • ·Industry sector with high AI adoption trajectory
  • ·Declining employment suggests structural disruption

Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.

Common Questions

How much does a Data Entry Keyer make?

The median Data Entry Keyer earns $41k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.

Will AI replace Data Entry Keyer jobs?

Our model puts Data Entry Keyer at 90 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is high disruption risk. The main drivers: 71% routine cognitive tasks — high automation target; industry sector with high AI adoption trajectory.

Is Data Entry Keyer a growing field?

Employment is projected to shrink 25.5% between 2025 and 2035, which is declining. That works out to roughly 7,700 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.

What degree do you need to be a Data Entry Keyer?

Most Data Entry Keyer roles need a high school diploma or equivalent, with training happening on the job. A degree is not the usual route in.

How long does it take to become a Data Entry Keyer?

Typically under a year, usually a high school diploma plus short training. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 2 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.

Is a Data Entry Keyer career right for you?

Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.

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