Computer Operator

What You Do

As a computer operator you will oversee and monitor the operation of computer hardware systems, which consist of the computer itself and peripheral equipment such as printers and disk drives. You will also look after minicomputers, multi-user and mainframe systems.

Job stream: Operations Routine

Sample titles:

• Computer Operator
• Operator

Who You Do It For

Although jobs for computer operators are found in almost every industry, most of these jobs can be found in organizations that require large computer installations such as:

• wholesale trade,
• manufacturing operations,
• data processing service firms,
• financial institutions,
• government departments and agencies, and
• utilities.

How You Do It

The duties of a computer operator vary with the size of the installation, the types of equipment used and the employer’s policies. Typically, you receive a program with specific operating instructions from the programmer, users, or operations manager.

Following the instructions, you load the program onto the computer using disks, tapes and paper. Depending on your level of seniority, you will also type commands on the control console of a mainframe computer or a group of minicomputers, while monitoring and responding to on-screen computer messages or control panel lights.

If an error message occurs, you must locate and solve the problem or terminate the program. You will also maintain log books or operating records during your shift, listing the jobs run and events such as system failures.

You ensure that all parts of the computer peripheral equipment and the main console are maintained and performing properly. As additional duties, you may assist programmers and system analysts by testing and debugging new programs.

A significant number of computer operators are working on personal computers (PCs) and multi-user servers, given the continuing trend toward networking computers. The tasks performed are very similar to the work performed on larger computers.

Challenges

Extensive knowledge of a variety of operating systems is essential. Computer operators must be adaptable and willing to continually upgrade their skill sets to keep up with changing technology.

In addition, they must be able to think quickly on their feet to analyze problems with computers resulting from changes in technology.

Skills

• gather and consolidate relevant data and information,
• learn new technical skills and knowledge,
• work both independently and under close supervision,
• follow directions,
• think analytically and problem solve,
• meet deadlines,
• communicate effectively,
• pay attention to detail and work effectively under pressure,
• take the initiative and make quick decisions, and
• be flexible in your thinking.

Working Conditions

Generally, computer operators work in well-lighted, well-ventilated, comfortable rooms. You may be required to work evenings or shift work and weekends since many organizations utilize their computers 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

With advances in telecommuting technologies and data center automation, some operators are no longer required to work shift-work.

The job can produce significant stress, since you could be the first one to recognize and react to system crashes and other crises. When all systems are functioning normally, on the other hand, the role can be quite calm and uneventful.

Like other workers who spend their time in front of a computer terminal, computer operators are susceptible to eyestrain, back discomfort and hand and wrist problems.

In addition, computer operators are required to spend a significant portion of their time on their feet as they set up, operate, monitor and control equipment.

In some instances, computer operators are required to lift and carry tapes, disks, paper, and other supplies which may weigh up to 60 pounds.

What the Future Holds

Many of the tasks currently performed by computer operators are being replaced as advances in technology continue to supply more sophisticated software and robotics.

Employment opportunities for the future can decline as technology discovers new ways to make computers operate unattended while increasing the capacity for data storage and processing automation.

However, many professionals move on from computer operations to other roles in an IT organization. There will however continue to be a demand for highly qualified computer operators who are familiar with a variety of operating systems and the latest technology.

Skill Levels

Entry Level Computer Operator

Working under the supervision of a more senior informatics staff member, you could be required to do any of the following:

• perform all defined routine tasks associated with operating and controlling installed information systems,
• perform required monitoring, logging and reporting tasks associated with routine operations,
• perform clerical and other procedures for data, reports, consumables and media,
• apply strictly, but intelligently, relevant instructions and procedures,
• complete required tasks correctly and promptly,
• respond to simple inquiries from users, specialists and other staff, and
• recognize and handle a limited range of routine exception and error conditions.

Full Working Computer Operator

At this level, As a full working computer operator you will be performing your job without supervision and you may be responsible for the supervision of other staff on a project. You may be responsible for small projects or portions of medium-large projects.

Your duties may include the following:

• operating and controlling the installed equipment and systems,
• monitoring, logging and reporting tasks associated with routine operations,
• performing procedures associated with data, reports, consumables, and media,
• responding to and taking responsibility for specialists’, users’ and suppliers’ inquiries,
• providing data management support,
• investigating operational problems and recommending and taking action on them,
• resolving operational problems with minimum reference to others,
• ensuring procedures and practices are carried out effectively,
• working with users, information systems professionals and suppliers to amend specific duties,
• operating peripheral equipment, and
• guiding and instructing less experienced staff.

Intermediate Computer Operator

As the intermediate computer operator, you will be expected to supervise staff. You may also be required to:

• take responsibility for delivery of operational services,
• manage maintenance of operational methods and procedures,
• make changes to the computer facility,
• track operational budgets and assist management with budget development,
• ensure daily staff requirements are met,
• negotiate with users, system personnel and suppliers,
• take responsibility for dealing with significant events, issues, conflicts, etc.,
• perform ongoing reviews of effectiveness, efficiency and costs, administer facilities management contracts, and
• supervise, plan and monitor work of operational groups.

Senior Computer Operator

As the senior computer operator you will most likely be involved in planning, conducting and supervising complex informatics assignments. You will also be involved in designing and applying new methods and procedures and supervising staff. Your job could also require you to:

• deliver operational services, managing routine and unforeseen events,
• plan and ensure control and operation of installed equipment and systems,
• see to it that required methods and procedures are established and maintained,
• ensure security within the computer facility,
• develop and manage operational budgets,
• communicate with users, personnel and suppliers re: disaster recovery,
• plan, monitor and review work and costs of operational groups,
• take responsibility for major unforeseen events, issues and conflicts,
• make sure the staff are in place to do the job required, and
• hire, train, discipline and appraise staff.

Salary Range

$29,500 - $42,500

Education and Training

Junior Computer Operator

You need a university degree or college diploma with 0-2 years experience in the IT industry and specific job experience in this stream.

Full Working Computer Operator

This stream requires 3-5 years experience in the IT industry and specific computer operations experience, in addition to a university or college diploma.

Intermediate Computer Operator

This stream requires 6-8 years experience in the IT industry and specific computer operator job experience as well as a university degree or college diploma.

Senior Computer Operator

This stream requires 9 or more years experience in the IT industry and specific computer operator job experience as well as a university or college diploma.