What Does a Data Processor Do?

Data processors are responsible for converting raw data into useful information. They commonly work with large sets of data that would be too unwieldy or expensive to process manually, such as social media posts, medical records, financial transactions, etc.

Data Processor Job Duties

Data processors have a wide range of responsibilities, which can include:

• Processing payroll or billing data, including calculating deductions from employee paychecks or customer bills based on data provided by other departments such as human resources or accounting
• Processing data for statistical analysis, reporting, and other business needs
• Maintaining databases by creating new records or updating existing ones
• Auditing data for accuracy and ensuring that it is consistent with corporate policies
• Receiving and processing new employee applications and other paperwork in accordance with human resources policies and procedures
• Creating spreadsheets or other documents using data from internal or external sources
• Providing technical support for applications such as computerized accounting systems or software used by other departments within an organization
• Correcting errors in data records to ensure accuracy
• Researching and resolving issues related to data processing problems

Data Processor Salary & Outlook

Data processors’ salaries vary depending on their level of education, years of experience, and the company size and location. They may also earn additional compensation in the form of bonuses.

• Median Annual Salary: $36,500 ($17.55/hour)
• Top 10% Annual Salary: $67,500 ($32.45/hour)

The employment of data processors is expected to decline over the next decade.

Employment growth will be limited because many tasks performed by data processors, such as collecting and organizing data, can be automated. Computer software can analyze large amounts of data and recognize patterns and anomalies, which allows data processors to focus on more complex tasks.

Related: Data Processor Interview Questions and Answers

Data Processor Job Requirements

A data processor typically needs to have the following qualifications:

Education: Data processors are typically required to have at least a high school diploma or equivalent. Some employers may prefer candidates who have an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field.

Training & Experience: Data processors typically receive on-the-job training after they are hired. This training may last for a few weeks or a few months, depending on the company and the data processor’s experience. During this training, the data processor will learn about the company’s specific processes and procedures. They will also learn about the software and computer systems they will use on a daily basis.

Certifications & Licenses: Data processors typically do not require any certifications to acquire their position. However, some employers may prefer candidates to have a certifications to demonstrate their skills and abilities. Certifications allow data processors to master advanced techniques and knowledge that they may not learn through their typical training courses.

Data Processor Skills

Data processors need the following skills in order to be successful:

Data entry: Data entry is the process of entering data into a computer system. Data processors should have strong data entry skills, as they are responsible for entering large amounts of data into a database. Data processors should be able to type quickly and accurately to ensure the data is entered correctly.

Spreadsheets: Data processors use a variety of software programs to enter, organize and manipulate data. They often use spreadsheets to sort and organize data, so it’s important to be familiar with the program.

Communication: Data processors work with many different people throughout their workday, including supervisors, coworkers and clients. Effective communication skills can help them convey information clearly and answer questions. Data processors may also need to communicate with clients over the phone or through email.

Attention to detail: Data processors need to be able to notice small errors in data. They need to be able to identify and correct errors in data to ensure the data is accurate. Attention to detail can also help data processors ensure they enter data into the correct fields and that they don’t make any data entry errors.

Computer systems: Data processors work with computer systems, so it’s important for them to understand how computer systems work. They should be able to identify the different parts of a computer system and understand how they work together. Data processors should also know how to troubleshoot computer systems when they experience issues.

Data Processor Work Environment

Data processors typically work in clean, well-lit offices. They sit at desks and use computers to enter, update, and retrieve data. Data processors may work alone or in teams, and they may be required to work on more than one task at a time. Data processors typically work the usual 40-hour workweek, but they may have to work overtime to meet deadlines. The work can be repetitive and sometimes stressful, but data processors usually find it to be interesting and challenging.

Data Processor Trends

Here are three trends influencing how data processors work. Data processors will need to stay up-to-date on these developments to keep their skills relevant and maintain a competitive advantage in the workplace.

The Need for Better Data Quality

The need for better data quality is a trend that is quickly gaining traction in the business world. This is because businesses are realizing that poor data quality can have a negative impact on their bottom line.

Data processors can help to address this trend by developing skills in data cleansing and data validation. By doing so, they can ensure that the data that is being processed is accurate and reliable.

More Focus on Cybersecurity

As businesses become more reliant on technology, the need for cybersecurity professionals will continue to grow.

Data processors are in a unique position to take advantage of this trend, as they are responsible for handling sensitive data that may be at risk of being compromised. By developing expertise in cybersecurity, data processors can help to protect the information that is most important to their company.

Big Data Becomes Even Bigger

Big data is becoming even bigger as more and more companies are collecting and storing vast amounts of information about their customers. This information can be used to create personalized experiences for customers, which can lead to increased loyalty and sales.

Data processors can play a key role in helping companies utilize big data by ensuring that it is properly stored and organized. They can also help to develop systems that make it easier to search through large amounts of data quickly and efficiently.

How to Become a Data Processor

A data processor career can be a great way to get your foot in the door of the IT industry. As a data processor, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about different systems and processes used by companies. You’ll also gain experience working with a variety of software programs and databases.

To become a data processor, you’ll need to have strong math skills and be able to work accurately under pressure. You should also be comfortable using computers and have good communication skills.

Advancement Prospects

Data processors typically start out in entry-level positions, such as data entry clerks. With experience, they may advance to positions such as data control technicians or computer operators. The most experienced and skilled data processors may become computer systems analysts, software engineers, or information systems managers.

Data Processor Job Description Example

At [CompanyX], we believe that data is the key to success in today’s business world. We are looking for a highly skilled data processor to join our team. The ideal candidate will have experience working with large data sets, cleaning and organizing data, and performing data analysis. He or she will be responsible for processing data from a variety of sources, including surveys, customer data, financial data, and more. The data processor will also be responsible for creating reports and presentations to share the results of the data analysis with the rest of the team.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Process customer and account data according to established guidelines
• Verify accuracy of data entered into system
• Research and resolve discrepancies
• Generate reports as needed
• Maintain confidentiality of sensitive information
• Adhere to all company policies and procedures
• Update job knowledge as needed
• Assist other departments as needed
• Train new employees as needed
• Handle customer inquiries and complaints in a professional manner
• Meet departmental productivity and quality standards
• Perform other duties as assigned

Required Skills and Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Proven experience as data processor or similar role
• Excellent attention to detail
• Good math skills
• Typing speed of at least 60 wpm
• Proficient in Microsoft Office, with aptitude to learn new software and systems

Preferred Skills and Qualifications

• Associate’s degree in computer science or related field
• Experience with data processing software, such as SPSS or SAS
• Familiarity with big data concepts and databases, such as Hadoop or NoSQL
• Experience working in a fast-paced environment
• Ability to work independently with little supervision