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#040 - COMPUTER OPERATOR

A   Michigan Jobs & Career Portal  service.

 

Job Duties

Working Conditions/Requirements

Education & Preparation

Job Openings & Entry Method

Earnings & Advancement

Employment & Outlook

 

Sources of Additional Information

 

 

 

 

Computer Operators monitor and control electronic computer and peripheral data processing equipment to process business, scientific, engineering, or other data according to operating instructions.


JOB DUTIES

Computer Operators may:

Use job set-up instructions to decide the equipment to be used and the order of its use

Set control switches, select, and load data and materials needed for the computer run

Use various switches or keys to clear the system and start the computer

Monitor the system for equipment failure or errors in performance

Separate output when sending data to different users

Watch computer and peripheral equipment for errors or breakdowns

Find reasons for breakdown if computer stops or error lights appear

Record operating time and use of the computer

Answer telephone calls to assist computer users encountering problems.

Oversee the operation of computer hardware systems, including coordinating and scheduling the use of computer terminals and networks to ensure efficient use

Click here to view Computer Operators at work  

The tools, equipment, and work aids used may include:

* Mainframe computers

* Disks, diskettes

* Magnetic tape units

* Consoles and control panels

* Programs and punched cards

* CRT (TV) displays

* Flow charts and job streams

* High speed printers

* Optical scanners

* Converters

* Procedures charts

* Magnetic tapes


OCCUPATIONAL SPECIALTIES

Computer Operators may specialize in these areas:

213.362-010 COMPUTER OPERATORS monitor and control electronic data processing systems which process business, scientific, engineering, or other data.

213.382-010 COMPUTER-PERIPHERAL-EQUIPMENT OPERATORS control and monitor peripheral machines such as card/tape units and high-speed printers to transfer data from cards and tapes and convert stored data to printed records.

In addition to learning about these specialties, you may also find it helpful to explore the following Career Exploration Scripts:


WORKING CONDITIONS AND REQUIREMENTS

Computer Operators work with or around other people. Computer Operators work in comfortable, well-lighted surroundings. They work in air-conditioned rooms which may be cooler than other work areas because computers must be kept in areas where the temperature and humidity are carefully controlled. Operators may have work areas that are noisy. Operators spend much of their time standing and walking while loading and checking machines.

They usually work a 5-day, 40-hour week. They may become mentally tired at times. They may be required to work overtime frequently to meet deadlines. Computer installations are in operation 24 hours a day, and employees work in shifts. They may have to work evening or night shifts, weekends or holidays.

Many belong to a union or professional association and pay dues or fees.

You Should Prefer:

  • Activities of a scientific or technical nature

  • Activities which require creative imagination

You Should Be Able To:

  • Work in a routine, organized manner

  • Work accurately and think logically (step-by-step)

  • Work well under pressure and use time effectively

  • Follow detailed instructions

  • Perform a variety of duties which may change often

  • See details and recognize errors in written materials

  • Perform activities which involve machines, processes, or methods

Math Problem You Should Be Able to Solve:

Should be able to prove that nCr = [n/(n-r)]*[(n-1)Cr]

Reading Example You Should Be Able to Read and Comprehend:

A record is printed at WRITE-RTN and one is added to the COUNTER 1, thus, COUNTER 1 is equal to 1 after one record is printed. Since COUNTER 1 is not yet equal to 5, WRITE-RTN is executed again. The second line is printed, and 1 is added to COUNTER 1, giving COUNTER 1 a value of 2.

Writing Example You Should Be Able to Produce:

Prepare a written analysis of a computer problem.

Thinking Skill You Should Be Able to Demonstrate:

Should be able to demonstrate excellent analytical skills and be detail oriented in assessing, monitoring, and controlling computer operations.


EDUCATION AND PREPARATION OPPORTUNITIES

NOTE: On-The-Job Training provided by the employer or a High School Diploma or Equivalent or a Certificate (program of up to one year of study beyond high school) or an Associate Degree (two years of study beyond high school) may qualify a person for this occupation.

The following education and preparation opportunities are helpful in preparing for occupations in this Career Exploration Script:

***SCHOOL SUBJECTS***

0600 BUSINESS , 0700 CAREERS , 0900 COMMUNICATIONS , 1000 COMPUTERS , 1200 ELECTRONICS , 2200 MATH , 3300 TECHNOLOGY

***VOCATIONAL EDUCATION PROGRAMS***

There are no Vocational Education Programs related to this Career Exploration Script.

Students should obtain the local Education & Training Opportunities for information on what happens to students who successfully complete a program. This information is available at each high school or career/technical center.

***POSTSECONDARY PROGRAMS***

040 DATA PROCESSING

Programs in Data Processing provide opportunities to gain the knowledge and skills needed in a wide variety of jobs dealing with the sorting, analyzing, and processing of information using computers and other electronic and mechanical equipment. Individuals who teach Data Processing at the secondary school level must have a Michigan Teaching Certificate.

Courses within Data Processing programs will vary from school to school but may include:

Report Program Generator

Principles & Purposes of Data Process.

Introduction to Computers

Database Management

Fortran Programming

Systems Design & Control

Cobol Programming

Computer Operation

Teleprocessing

Assembler Language & Software

215 COMPUTER SCIENCE

Programs in Computer Science provide opportunities to gain the knowledge and skills needed in a wide variety of jobs dealing with the programming, analyzing, and operation of computers and other electronic and mechanical equipment. Individuals who teach Computer Science at the secondary school level must have a Michigan Teaching certificate.

Courses vary from school to school but may include:

Introduction to Computers

Computer Programming

Mathematics

English Composition

Statistics

Logic

Systems Design & Control

Business

Accounting

Computer Communications

Computer Operation

Data Base Management

Personal Computer Classes

Search for a College and/or Instructional Program

***APPRENTICESHIP OPPORTUNITIES***

Although this occupation has apprenticeship programsavailable in Michigan, they are limited in number.  See the Sources of More Information below for name, address and phone number of the Bureau of Apprenticeship and Training.

***MILITARY TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES***

Please check Military website at http://www.myfuture.com

COMPUTER SYSTEMS SPECIALISTS

The military services use computers to store and process data on personnel, weather, finances, and many other operations. Before any information can be processed, computer systems must be set up, data entered, and computers operated. Computer systems specialists ensure information is entered, sorted, processed, and retrieved in a way that meets the military services' needs.

What They Do

Computer systems specialists in the military perform some or all of the following duties:

  • Identify computer user problems and coordinate to resolve them

  • Install, configure, and monitor local and wide area networks, hardware, and software

  • Compile, enter, and process information

  • Provide customer and network administration services, such as passwords, electronic mail accounts, security, and troubleshooting

Helpful Attributes

Helpful school subjects include typing and computer science. Helpful attributes include:

  • Interest in work requiring accuracy and attention to detail

  • Ability to communicate effectively

  • Interest in working with computer equipment

Training Provided

Job training consists of 7 to 13 weeks of classroom instruction. Training length varies depending on specialty. Course content typically includes:

  • Use of computer consoles and peripheral equipment

  • Planning, designing, and testing computer systems

  • Computer systems concepts

Work Environment

Computer systems specialists work in offices or at computer sites, on military bases or aboard ships.

Physical Demands

Computer systems specialists may sit and key information for long periods.

Civilian Counterparts

Civilian computer systems specialists work for a wide variety of employers, such as banks, hospitals, retail firms, manufacturers, government agencies, and firms that design and test computer systems. They perform duties similar to those performed in the military. They may also be called network support technicians, computer operators, or data processing technicians. Most civilian computer systems specialists require a four-year college degree.

Opportunities

The military uses computers to store and process data on personnel, weather, communications, finances, and many other areas, as well as to operate sophisticated equipment during combat and peace time maneuvers. After job training, computer systems specialists are assigned to work under the direction of experienced computer systems officers. With experience, they may become managers of computer facilities.  

E-Learning Courses and Programs


OPPORTUNITIES FOR EXPERIENCE AND METHODS OF ENTRY

Many large firms offer training programs requiring no previous experience, while others require up to 2 years of training or experience. Small firms usually require at least 6 months of experience in data processing. Many employers give ability tests to applicants. Some expect Operators to keep informed about data communication trends.

School-to-Work opportunities include:

informal apprenticeships

mentorships

job shadowing experiences

touring a local Computer Programmer employer

internships

volunteer work with a Computer Programmer employer

community service work with an agency

Summer and part-time work with computer centers, work with government agencies may provide opportunities for experience. Postsecondary programs in computer science or data processing, and military service may also provide opportunities for experience.

Ways of becoming a Computer Operator include direct application to employers and taking Civil Service exams for jobs with government agencies. Assistance in locating positions may be available through placement offices of high schools, colleges, or vocational schools and local offices of Michigan Works!. Openings may be listed in newspaper want ads. In addition, you should access and search the Internet's on-line employment services sites such as:  

Beacon Hill Staffing

Comparedataentryjobs.com

Michigan Jobs & Career Portal

Michigan Talent Bank

simplyhired.com

Indeed | one search. all jobs.

MONSTER.COM

Yahoo!hotjobs

CareerBuilder

Dice

Net-Temps 

computerjobs.com

USAJOBS - United States Office of Personnel Management

NationJob.com 

You should also enter an electronic resume on these on-line services.


EARNINGS AND ADVANCEMENT

Earnings of Computer Operators depend on the location and type of employer, the size of the computer installation, and the operator's experience and level of responsibility.

Nationally, Computer Operators had median annual earnings of $45,000 with earnings ranging between $41,100 and $50,500 in mid 2009. Earnings were generally highest in large metropolitan areas and in the great lakes region because of a high concentration of manufacturing establishments.  The median yearly earnings of "all" workers in the U.S. were $37,544 in 2008.

In the federal government, Computer Operators without work experience started at $39,188 per year in 2009. The salaries of these federal government workers may be higher in some urban areas.

Annual average earnings of Computer Operators in several metropolitan areas in Michigan were (mid 2009):

AREA

MIDDLE RANGE

AVERAGE

Detroit ( mid 2009)

$37,921 - $48,388

$47,667

Michigan

$37,000 - $53,100

$43,700

Computer Operators employed in Michigan hospitals earned an average minimum of $28,184 and an average maximum of $34,320 annually in mid 2009. Their average earnings were $31,034.

Computer Operators may receive paid vacations and holidays; hospitalization, accident, disability, life, and dental insurance; sick leave; and retirement plans. Some employers may offer stock purchase/savings plans for salaried workers.

Computer Operators may advance to senior Operator or lead Operator through a combination of training and experience. Those who demonstrate work and leadership skills may go on to supervisory positions.


EMPLOYMENT AND OUTLOOK

Nationally, about 130,000 Computer Operators were employed in 2006. Their employment is expected to decline rapidly through the year 2016. About 1.8% of them were self-employed. The industry distribution for Computer Operators looked like this:

NAICS Code

NAICS Industry Title

%  Employed

520000

Finance and Insurance

15.2

541000

Professional, scientific, and technical services

11.7

560000

Administrative and support and waste management and remediation services

11.7

510000

Information

11.2

551100

Management of companies and enterprises

5.3

622000

Hospitals, public and private

4.5

930000

Local Government

4.1

31-330

Manufacturing

4.0

920000

State Government

3.3

423000

Merchant wholesalers, durable goods

3.0

48-490

Transportation and Warehousing

2.4

424000

Merchant wholesalers, nondurable goods

2.4

910000

Federal Government

2.0

--

Others

19.2

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

To find employers, click Employer/Business Locator.

There are approximately 3,225 Computer Operators employed in Michigan. Computer Operators are employed in almost every industry, especially in computer and data processing service firms; automobile and equipment manufacturing firms; financial institutions; government agencies, insurance companies; accounting, auditing, and bookkeeping services firms; colleges and universities; and hospitals.

About 10% of all Computer Operators work part-time.

Employment of Computer Operators is expected to decline or decrease through the year 2016. An average of 50 annual openings is expected, with all due to replacement of those who retire or leave the labor force for other reasons. Additional openings will occur as workers change jobs or occupations.

MICHIGAN'S EMPLOYMENT OUTLOOK TO 2006-2016

EMPLOYMENT

NUMBER

PERCENT

YEARLY JOB

REGION

EMPLOYED

GROWTH

OPENINGS

Michigan - State-wide

3,225

-28.5

50

Ann Arbor Area

210

-26.3

3

Battle Creek Area

30

-31.3

1

Benton Harbor Area

45

-32.6

1

Central Michigan

30

-27.6

1

Detroit Area

1,630

-29.4

26

Flint Area

95

-24.0

2

Grand Rapids Area

310

-28.4

5

Jackson Area

20

-28.6

0

Kalamazoo Area

80

-28.0

1

Lansing MSA

205

-26.8

3

Muskegon Area

35

-28.6

1

NorthEast Lower Peninsula

35

-30.3

1

NorthWest Lower Peninsula

50

-22.4

1

Saginaw Area

175

-28.0

3

Thumb Area

25

-30.4

0

Upper Peninsula

50

-34.6

1

Note:  Areas may not add up to state-wide total due to rounding, sampling,

 statistical error or omission due to confidentiality issues.

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SOURCES OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

American Society of Employers
23815 Northwestern Highway
Southfield, MI 48075-7713
(248) 353-4500

 

Michigan Association of Computer
Users in Learning

P.O. Box 518                                         
Holt, MI 48842                          
(517) 694-9756

Institute for Certification of
Computing Professionals

2400 East Devon Avenue,
Suite 281                   
Des Plaines, IL 60018
(847) 299-4227
 

Assocation of Information Technology Professionals (AITP)
401 North Michigan Avenue,                    
Suite 2400
Chicago, IL 60611-4267
(800) 224-9371

Michigan Jobs & Career Portal

School/College Placement Offices

Local Military Recruiters

Federal, State, and Local
Civil Service Offices


 

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