Data Technician
Career GuideKey Responsibilities
- Enter and update data in spreadsheets, databases, and internal systems
- Check data for errors, duplicates, and missing values
- Standardize data formats and naming conventions
- Run routine data quality checks and document issues
- Prepare simple reports and data extracts for stakeholders
- Follow data handling rules for privacy and security
- Maintain clear documentation for data sources and steps
- Support data migrations and system updates under guidance
- Respond to data requests and track work status
- Collaborate with analysts, operations teams, and IT support
Top Skills for Success
Attention to Detail
Communication
Time Management
Problem Solving
Spreadsheet Skills
Data Cleaning
Data Validation
SQL
Data Entry Accuracy
Documentation
Data Privacy Awareness
Quality Assurance
Career Progression
Can Lead To
Data Analyst
Business Analyst
Reporting Analyst
Data Quality Analyst
Database Administrator
Operations Analyst
Transition Opportunities
Data Engineer
Analytics Engineer
Business Intelligence Developer
Data Governance Specialist
Product Analyst
Common Skill Gaps
Often Missing Skills
SQL Query WritingData Quality MetricsData Modeling BasicsAutomation ScriptingDashboard BasicsCloud Data Storage BasicsData Governance FundamentalsVersion Control
Development SuggestionsBuild comfort with SQL and repeatable quality checks first. Add a basic scripting skill for automation, then learn simple dashboard creation and how data flows from source systems to reports. Strengthen documentation habits and learn the basics of data governance to handle sensitive data correctly.
Salary & Demand
Median Salary Range
Entry LevelUSD 40,000 to 55,000
Mid LevelUSD 55,000 to 75,000
Senior LevelUSD 75,000 to 95,000
Growth Trend
Steady demand. Hiring remains strong in healthcare, finance, logistics, and government where data accuracy and reporting are critical. Demand increases for candidates who can use SQL and basic automation.Companies Hiring
Major Employers
AccentureIBMDeloitteAmazonUnitedHealth GroupJPMorgan ChaseWalmartKaiser PermanenteLockheed MartinADP
Industry Sectors
HealthcareFinancial ServicesRetailLogisticsTechnologyGovernmentManufacturingEducationTelecommunications
Recommended Next Steps
1
Learn SQL and practice extracting and validating data2
Create a small portfolio project that shows data cleaning and a simple report3
Build a repeatable data quality checklist for common errors4
Learn one scripting tool used in data work and automate a simple task5
Practice clear documentation for data sources and changes6
Review common data privacy rules used in your industry7
Ask to shadow a data analyst or reporting analyst to understand stakeholder needs8
Update your resume with measurable outcomes such as error reduction and faster turnaround time