A computer operator is an information technology position. Although the computer operator does not undergo as rigorous training as a programmer or system administrator, they have traditionally been a very important part of maintaining computer systems.
The Role Of A Computer Operator
In the past, a computer operator worked with large mainframe computers that required some amount of manual work in order to keep them operating and functioning properly. Because computer technology has advanced, the job duties of a computer operator have changed as well.
At the most basic level, a computer operator ensures that the computers at a location are working and can fix minor problems with them. They are also responsible to installing new hard and sometimes new software depending on the environment.
Backing up information has been a primary duty of computer operators. They back up data and then send the physical media to another location so there are safe copies elsewhere. Logging computer activities performed such as backups, malfunctions or hardware replacements are part of the job description as well.
They may be responsible for maintaining other office devices connected to the network. Examples are printers, copiers or other external items that might require the changing of ink, paper or replacing of cables.
A computer operator may be asked to help in the widespread upgrade of the network, assisting in the testing and implementation of new systems. In most modern environments, the computer operator is present to help the system administrators in whatever ways they require.
Education
While included in the information technology tree of jobs, a computer operator is more of a technician than a system administrator or programmer and often has no programming knowledge. Some system operators require only a high school diploma. Other positions may require an Associate’s degree or related technical training.
Most of the education that a computer operator needs can only be given on the job site since the systems may be proprietary and the procedures different for each company.
Career Prospects
Unfortunately, since the pace of technology has advanced so quickly, there has been a dwindling need for computer operators. Without large mainframes to maintain, and with software automation of many processes, the number of jobs is in decline. The prediction is that the demand for computer operators will decline by 15% over the next 5 years.
Salary
Computer operators have an average salary of roughly $35,000. They begin lower than this and can make more based on seniority.
Data provided by the Bureau of Labor Statistics
The salary range for Computer Operator begins around $22,300 and usually tops out around $54,920, with a mean in the neighborhood of $38,610. This is about 13% lower than the national average for annual salaries.
Data provided by the Bureau of Labor Statistics
The growth outlook for Computer Operator careers is estimated at about -19% while the estimated growth for all career fields over that same span is at about 10.12%. Over the next six years, Computer Operator jobs are expected to grow at a -153% lower rate than the national average for annual salaries.