Computer Operators

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This occupation is part of the Office and Administrative Support cluster

About the Job

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.

It is also Called

  • Card Sorter
  • Card Tape Converter Operator
  • Computer Console Operator
  • Computer Operator
  • Computer Peripheral Equipment Operator
  • Computer Programmer
  • Computer Specialist
  • Computer Systems Support Specialist
  • Computer Technician
  • Computing Machine Operator

What They Do

  • Enter commands, using computer terminal, and activate controls on computer and peripheral equipment to integrate and operate equipment.
  • Monitor the system for equipment failure or errors in performance.
  • Respond to program error messages by finding and correcting problems or terminating the program.
  • Notify supervisor or computer maintenance technicians of equipment malfunctions.
  • Answer telephone calls to assist computer users encountering problems.
  • Record information such as computer operating time, problems that occurred, and actions taken.
  • Operate spreadsheet programs and other types of software to load and manipulate data and to produce reports.
  • Help programmers and systems analysts test and debug new programs.
  • Retrieve, separate and sort program output as needed, and send data to specified users.
  • Oversee the operation of computer hardware systems, including coordinating and scheduling the use of computer terminals and networks to ensure efficient use.

Interests

People who work in this occupation generally have the interest code: CR.

This means people who work in this occupation generally have Conventional interests, but also prefer Realistic environments.

Work Values

People who work in this occupation generally prize Support, but also value Independence and Achievement in their jobs.

Things They Need to Know

  • Computers and Electronics - Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
  • Customer and Personal Service - Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
  • English Language - Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
  • Clerical - Knowledge of administrative and clerical procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, stenography and transcription, designing forms, and other office procedures and terminology.
  • Telecommunications - Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of telecommunications systems.

Things They Need to Be Able to Do

  • Operation Monitoring - Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
  • Reading Comprehension - Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
  • Monitoring - Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
  • Active Listening - Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
  • Critical Thinking - Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
  • Speaking - Talking to others to convey information effectively.
  • Complex Problem Solving - Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.

Education Required

Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.

Wages

In 2012, the average annual wage in California was $43,790 with most people making between $25,910 and $60,860

Outlook

0.00%
avg. annual growth

During 2010, this occupation employed approximately 7,900 people in California. It is projected that there will be 7,400 employed in 2020.

This occupation will have about 0 openings due to growth and about 80 replacement openings for approximately 80 total annual openings.

Common College Majors

Industries that Employ this Occupation

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