How to become a data entry clerk
Official title: Data entry clerks
Also called: Data processor, Data entry clerk, Data input clerk, Data control clerk, Data entry operator, Payment entry clerk, Payment input clerk, Data processing verifier, Data entry verifier-operator, Data processing control clerk, Interpreting machine operator - data entry, Electronic data-processing (edp) equipment operator
Data entry clerks input coded, statistical, financial and other information into computerized databases, spreadsheets or other templates using a keyboard, mouse, or optical scanner, speech recognition software or other data entry tools. They are employed in the private and public sectors.
Main tasks
- Receive and register invoices, forms, records and other documents for data capture
- Input data into computerized databases, spreadsheets or other templates using a keyboard, mouse, or optical scanner, speech recognition software or other data entry tools
- Import and/or export data between different kinds of software
- Verify accuracy and completeness of data
- Identify, label and organize electronic storage media
- Maintain libraries of electronic storage media
How to become one
Completion of secondary school may be required. College or other courses in data entry may be required.
Pay · Outlook
- Median pay: $45,825 a year The middle half earn $39,000 to $54,600.
- About 36,000 people worked in this job in 2023, and about 36,700 are projected by 2033. (+1.9%)
- Projected labour market to 2033: moderate risk of surplus.
Related jobs
Not sure this is for you? Take the 2-minute career quiz
Questions people ask
How do I become a data entry clerk?
Completion of secondary school may be required. College or other courses in data entry may be required.
How much does a data entry clerk earn in Canada?
Median full-time pay is $45,825 a year (Employment and Social Development Canada (Job Bank)). The middle half earn $39,000 to $54,600.
Is a data entry clerk a growing career in Canada?
Employment is projected to stay about the same by 2033: about 36,000 people now and 36,700 later (Employment and Social Development Canada).
Do you need a degree to become a data entry clerk?
Not always. 25% of people in this job hold a bachelor's degree or higher.
Sources
- Statistics Canada: Census 2021: employment by occupation, gender and education (98-10-0449) (2021 Census), Statistics Canada Open Licence, retrieved 2026-10-03
- Statistics Canada: National Occupational Classification (NOC) 2021 (Version 1.0), Open Government Licence - Canada, retrieved 2026-10-03
- Employment and Social Development Canada: Canadian Occupational Projection System (COPS) (2024 to 2033), Open Government Licence - Canada, retrieved 2026-10-03
- Employment and Social Development Canada (Job Bank): Wages by occupation (2025 (revised 2025-11-19)), Open Government Licence - Canada, retrieved 2026-10-03
Updated 2026-10-03