The Duties & Responsibilities of a Computer Operator

By Aurelio Locsin, eHow Contributor

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job of the computer operator lies between two extremes. At the low end are positions that use the computer without actually affecting processing, which includes store clerks who handle purchases on the terminal or managers examining spreadsheets in the office. At the high end are engineers and programmers responsible for developing computer systems. Operators handle the control console of mainframe computers or a group of minicomputers.

1. Installation
o Computer operators are responsible for setting up systems by reading instruction and installation manuals. They connect equipment, ensure that they run with existing devices and can contact the manufacturer if problems exceed their capabilities. During those times when systems are so specialized that they must be installed by a factory representative, computer operators can assist him by defining the computer requirements of their companies.

Operations
o The operator starts and stops the control console, loads it as needed with required media such as tapes or paper, processes scheduled routines, balances user needs with equipments resources, fulfills user requests and returns results to them.

Repairs
o He analyzes errors and responds to any problems by adjusting both the software and hardware. He often works with programmers and engineers to run diagnostic tests, maintain operating standards and repair any defects. He may fine tune operations to either increase or decrease production depending on user requirements, and maintains the hardware to ensure they run at peak efficiency.

Storage
o Operators are responsible for backing up data to external storage, using a timetable typically defined by upper management, which can include daily, weekly and monthly processes. They store computer supplies and can order replacements. Finally, they must maintain operational logbooks for their systems, which they can then present to managers or users as evidence of operations.

People

If part of a large department, a computer operator reports his activities to supervisors above him and helps them in making computer decisions. He coordinates computer requirements among different branches of a company. He may supervise junior operators and advise them of correct procedures. He can also train subordinates or managers on aspects of computer operations required to complete their duties.

Education
o Computer operators must be informed about the latest technology by reading journals and other publications, attending seminars and meetings, becoming members of professional organizations and maintaining contact with vendors. They can pass on some of this knowledge by meeting with managers, subordinates or users.

General Responsibilities of a Computer Operator

Computer operators will find themselves holding a number of responsibilities in their job position. Some of these responsibilities include operating various computer systems, fixing problems that may arise, contacting those who can remedy computer problems when unable to do so and tracking computer operations on a daily basis. These responsibilities may vary in nature and some computer operators will have a wide range of responsibilities whereas others will have minimal amounts of duties due to their job title.

Specific Duties of a Computer Operator

One who is a computer operator will find that their daily duties are wide and varied for the most part. The first duty of a computer operator is to enter data into the computer. The data which is entered may be related to ensuring the proper workings of the computer whereas other data that is entered into the computer by the computer operator may be relative to the job field in which the individual works within. The entering of data is an important part of the computer operators daily routine. Computer operators may also have to take calls from customers complaining of computer system issues. The computer operator will diagnose the problem and then walk the individual through how to fix the situation. Should further help be needed, the computer operator will contact the necessary parties or advise the customer how to do so on their own. Some computer operators must also maintain the client database on a daily basis. This entails keeping up with current clients contact information and making changes as are necessary along the way. Not all computer operators are given this responsibility however some may find that this is part of their job description. From time to time, computer operators will be in charge of computer equipment orders. Those who have this responsibility will need to monitor the purchase of computer equipment, determine what types of equipment are needed by the company and keep track of all computer equipment within the office. Those individuals who find themselves responsible for this duty may also have to determine if new purchases are within the budget of the company. A computer operator may also be responsible for storing computer-related items such as disks, files and more. The individual who does so must have a proper classifying procedure so that items are kept in an orderly manner and can be recovered whenever they are needed. Computer operators may also be responsible for monitoring the computer use of others. This may relate to security reasons or simply deal with supervising those who may need help along the way. Some computer operators are in a supervisory position which makes them responsible for this specific task. Setting computer controls is another specific duty which many computer operators may find themselves responsible.

At times, computer controls will need to be checked, altered and corrected so as to promote the proper functioning of the computer network and accompanying stations.

Traits Which All Computer Operators Should Possess

There are a few traits which will come in handy in relation to the role of a computer operator. One trait which all computer operators should possess to aid them in their line of work is well-rounded computer knowledge. Computer operators have a wide array of duties which they must take part in on a daily basis. Therefore, a computer operator who only knows how to complete a few computer-related tasks will find themselves floundering as opposed to the computer operator who is a well rounded computer savvy individual. Computer operators should also be good communicators. This is due to the fact that computer operators will often have to deal with other individuals such as clients, coworkers and supervisory staff members. With that said, the computer operator will need to be able to get their point across in an effective manner so that all types of individuals understand what is being said. This is extremely important as computer-related issues tend to be technical in nature so it is vital that the computer operator can communicate the issue in a non-technical way which is easily understood by the average layperson. A computer operator must also be an inventive thinker. The computer operator will have to solve problems every now and again. With that being the case, one who fills this job role must be able to exhibit good problem solving skills in an inventive manner which will resolve any issues that may arise. One who becomes a computer operator should also be detail oriented. By having this type of trait, the individual will be able to dictate any computer related issues to the fullest extent. Whether there be problems or advancements made with relation to the computer department, the computer operator must be able to document such items in a detailed way. Computer operators should also possess good organizational skills. Since the computer operator may sometimes be given the responsibility of maintaining files, disks and so on, it is only normal to assume that good organizational skills will be an extreme asset to the individual who fills this job position.

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Conclusion
A computer operator is an individual who is responsible for using computers, fixing computer problems and monitoring computer usage by others in his/her department. The true extent of the job role of a computer operator will be determined by the exact position he/she holds, the company which the individual works for and the amount of responsibility the individual is given. Overall, the job role of a computer operator is one which is varied and fulfilling. Should one have a good knowledge with regard to computers and be well rounded in such knowledge, embarking on a career as a computer operator may be a wise move on their part.

Answers telephone or assist users at counter with minor computer programming problems or questions. Performs routine maintenance on computer hardware equipment and updates appropriate records; replaces ribbons and forms; cleans system following appropriate maintenance schedules and procedures.

Computer Operator Responsibilities

The computer operator will have to work on a multitude of tasks to ensure the efficiency and security of the systems. The operator will have to manage a group of systems and have control on the factors that are required for efficient working of the systems. Responsible for monitoring and supervising the computer use thereby ensuring the proper working of the system.

Computer Operator Job Responsibilities

Monitoring the issues that arise due to security issues. Oversee and check the efficiency of the systems. Control a group of systems and ensure the settings and controls on the computers. Maintain log books and records for the jobs or events that occur in the systems. Check for the presence of viruses and upgrade and update the system to improve the working. Help programmers and other technical staffs with debugging. Will be in charge of new equipment orders. Will have to organize and maintain disks and files and as a result should have good organization skill. Will have good communication skill which is necessary to convey technical issues to a non technical person. They operate several computer systems, fix problems which may arise and contact those responsible for solving the computer issues. They also track operation of the computer on daily basis.