Computer Operators - 43-9011.00

O*NET-SOC Description

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

DOT Titles Included in this O*NET-SOC Code

  • Computer Operator
  • Computer Peripheral Equipment Operator
  • Digitizer Operator

Sample of Occupations in this SOC Family

Related Occupations

Tasks

  • Answer telephone calls to assist computer users encountering problems.
  • Clear equipment at end of operating run and review schedule to determine next assignment.
  • Enter commands, using computer terminal, and activate controls on computer and peripheral equipment to integrate and operate equipment.
  • Help programmers and systems analysts test and debug new programs.
  • Load peripheral equipment with selected materials for operating runs, or oversee loading of peripheral equipment by peripheral equipment operators.
  • Monitor the system for equipment failure or errors in performance.
  • Notify supervisor or computer maintenance technicians of equipment malfunctions.
  • Operate spreadsheet programs and other types of software to load and manipulate data and to produce reports.
  • Oversee the operation of computer hardware systems, including coordinating and scheduling the use of computer terminals and networks to ensure efficient use.
  • 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.
  • Record information such as computer operating time, problems that occurred, and actions taken.
  • Respond to program error messages by finding and correcting problems or terminating the program.
  • Retrieve, separate and sort program output as needed, and send data to specified users.
  • Supervise and train peripheral equipment operators and computer operator trainees.
  • Type command on keyboard to transfer encoded data from memory unit to magnetic tape and assist in labeling, classifying, cataloging and maintaining tapes.

Detailed Work Activities

  • communicate technical information
  • ensure correct grammar, punctuation, or spelling
  • follow data storage procedures
  • load tapes, disks or paper into computers or peripherals
  • maintain client-server database
  • maintain or repair computers or related equipment
  • maintain records, reports, or files
  • monitor computer operation
  • operate computer networks
  • perform office equipment maintenance not requiring service call
  • provide technical support to computer users
  • read work order, instructions, formulas, or processing charts
  • route computer output to specified users
  • set computer controls or devices in data processing center
  • test computer programs or systems
  • use computers to enter, access or retrieve data
  • use knowledge of mainframe computers
  • use telephone communication techniques