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Computer Repair Jobs - What is the Job of a Computer Operator? What do Computer Operator Jobs Involve?

Computer operators are responsible for making sure that computer hardware systems are functioning properly, and that they are protected and secured. The computer operator job involves working with mainframes and networks of computers, anticipating problems and taking action before problems occur within the computer network.

Computer operators typically control the mainframe of additional computers or a group of smaller computers, running a particular job across all systems. Computer operators will load disks and tape into equipment and respond to any operating system errors from the computer. If a computer shows an error, a computer operator must then locate it and end the program.

Most computer operators work on networks of computers, in office and work settings, with many working full time to make sure that a companies computer network is functional and operational. Many tasks that a computer operator once did are now being automated such as scheduling and loading programs, can now be done with the click of the button, and require very little input from a human.

Working Conditions for Computer Operator Jobs - How is the Working Environment for Computer Repair Jobs?

Computer operator working conditions generally involve 40 hour workweeks and spending most of ones day standing in front of a computer monitor. Telecommuting has allows some computer operators to work from home, through remote access to a computer network. Computer operators may work odd hours, as some organizations require that their computers be operational 24 hours a day, which involves night and weekend shifts.

Hazards of long-term computer use can include eyestrain and carpal tunnel syndrome, in addition to back pain.

Computer Network Maintenance Education - How to Become a Computer Operator - How to Receive Your Computer Operator Training

Computer network maintenance training involves becoming familiar with an employers equipment and the routine processes that must be conducted in order to back up and keep the computer network operational. The computer operator training varies on the complexity of the job and the nature of the work.

A computer operator employer will typically look for candidates who have previous experience in the operating system that they use, and formal training is becoming increasingly common as computer systems become more specialized.

Computer Repairs Training Requirements - How to Become a Computer Operator

Other skills that a computer operator should have include being able to adapt to emerging technologies and a willingness to learn. Computer operators working in data centers need technical expertise in order to deal with complicated computer issues and also to work in harmony with programmers in other operators.

Computer operators must be able to work with little supervision, due to the independent nature of their work. Computer operators can advance to a supervisory position, such as network operations or as a programmer analyst by receiving the relevant bachelor’s degree training while they are working in a operator capacity.

Computer Operator Employment - What is the Future of Computer Operator Jobs?

Over the next decade, computer operator employment should decline by about 25%, as automated technologies such as data storage and processing have made many jobs obsolete that were traditionally performed by the computer operator. Those who formerly had computer operator jobs may be assigned to new positions in maintaining computer networks, or may further their skills with more training, entering such areas as network administration.

Job prospects for this field of computer operation are fairly poor, and individuals hoping to succeed should specialize in graphics interfaces, servers, and computer programming.

Computer Network Salary Pay Scale - How Much Do Computer Technician Jobs Earn?

In 2006, computer operator jobs had median earnings of $32,560, with the highest 10% of computer operator earners making more than $51,970.