Computer Operators :: Job Description

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Computer Operators

Careers / Computer Operators

Summary Description


	Monitor and control electronic computer and peripheral electronic data processing equipment to process business, scientific, engineering, and other data according to operating instructions. Monitor and respond to operating and error messages. May enter commands at a computer terminal and set controls on computer and peripheral devices.

Sample Job Titles

1.	Card Sorter

2.	Card Tape Converter Operator

3.	Computer Console Operator

4.	Computer Operator

5.	Computer Peripheral Equipment Operator

6.	Computer Programmer

7.	Computer Specialist

8.	Computer Systems Support Specialist

9.	Computer Technician

10.	Computing Machine Operator

11.	Console Operator

12.	Data Center Operator

13.	Data Processing Auxiliary Equipment Operator

14.	Data Processing Clerk

15.	Data Processor

16.	Debug Technician

17.	Digital Computer Operator

18.	Digitizer Operator

19.	Encoding Machine Operator

20.	Environmental Web Crawler

21.	Equipment Operator

22.	High Speed Printer Operator

23.	Imaging Specialist

24.	Information Systems Operator

25.	Information Technology Manager

26.	Information Technology Specialist

27.	Input Output Clerk

28.	Micro Computer Data Processor

29.	Network Manager

30.	Office Automation Clerk

31.	Operations and Maintenance Technician

32.	Peripheral EDP Equipment Operator

33.	Peripheral Equipment Operator

34.	Software Technician

35.	Sorting Machine Operator

36.	System Support Technician

37.	Systems Operator

Job Tasks

	Enter commands, using computer terminal, and activate controls on computer and peripheral equipment to integrate and operate equipment. Operate computers or computerized equipment.

	Monitor the system for equipment failure or errors in performance. Monitor equipment operation to ensure proper functioning.

	Type command on keyboard to transfer encoded data from memory unit to magnetic tape and assist in labeling, classifying, cataloging and maintaining tapes. Operate computers or computerized equipment.

	Respond to program error messages by finding and correcting problems or terminating the program. Maintain office equipment in proper operating condition.

	Notify supervisor or computer maintenance technicians of equipment malfunctions. Report maintenance or equipment problems to appropriate personnel.

	Answer telephone calls to assist computer users encountering problems. Answer telephones to direct calls or provide information.

	Record information such as computer operating time, problems that occurred, and actions taken. Maintain operational records.

	Clear equipment at end of operating run and review schedule to determine next assignment.

	Operate spreadsheet programs and other types of software to load and manipulate data and to produce reports. Format digital documents, data, or images.

	Help programmers and systems analysts test and debug new programs. Develop computer or online applications.

	Retrieve, separate and sort program output as needed, and send data to specified users. Compile data or documentation. Send information, materials or documentation.

	Oversee the operation of computer hardware systems, including coordinating and scheduling the use of computer terminals and networks to ensure efficient use. Schedule operational activities. Operate computers or computerized equipment.

	Read job set-up instructions to determine equipment to be used, order of use, material such as disks and paper to be loaded, and control settings. Read work orders to determine material or setup requirements.

	Load peripheral equipment with selected materials for operating runs, or oversee loading of peripheral equipment by peripheral equipment operators. Load materials or equipment.

	Supervise and train peripheral equipment operators and computer operator trainees. Supervise clerical or administrative personnel.

Work Activities

Importance	Work Activity

Interacting With Computers — Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.

Getting Information — Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.

Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates — Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.

Processing Information — Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.

Making Decisions and Solving Problems — Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.

Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events — Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.

Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work — Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.

Monitor Processes, Materials, or Surroundings — Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.

Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge — Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.

Analyzing Data or Information — Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.

Documenting/Recording Information — Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.

Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards — Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.

Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Material — Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.

Scheduling Work and Activities — Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.

Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships — Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.

Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information — Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resources, or materials needed to perform a work activity.

Thinking Creatively — Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.

Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others — Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.

Judging the Qualities of Things, Services, or People — Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.

Controlling Machines and Processes — Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).

Communicating with Persons Outside Organization — Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organization to customers, the public, government, and other external sources. This information can be exchanged in person, in writing, or by telephone or e-mail.

Training and Teaching Others — Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others.

Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others — Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks.

Developing Objectives and Strategies — Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to achieve them.

Monitoring and Controlling Resources — Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money.

Performing General Physical Activities — Performing physical activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling of materials.

Handling and Moving Objects — Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.

Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment — Servicing, repairing, calibrating, regulating, fine-tuning, or testing machines, devices, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of electrical or electronic (not mechanical) principles.

Developing and Building Teams — Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team members.

Provide Consultation and Advice to Others — Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical, systems-, or process-related topics.

Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others — Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, or otherwise negotiating with others.

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