Data Technician

Career Guide

A Data Technician supports teams by collecting, organizing, cleaning, and maintaining data so it is accurate and ready for reporting and analysis. The role is often a starting point into data careers and focuses on reliable execution, attention to detail, and strong process habits.

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Key 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

Learn SQL and practice extracting and validating data

Create a small portfolio project that shows data cleaning and a simple report

Build a repeatable data quality checklist for common errors

Learn one scripting tool used in data work and automate a simple task

Practice clear documentation for data sources and changes

Review common data privacy rules used in your industry

Ask to shadow a data analyst or reporting analyst to understand stakeholder needs

Update your resume with measurable outcomes such as error reduction and faster turnaround time