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8288
COMPUTER OPERATOR 1
Nature of Work
Under direct supervision, performs entry level work in
operating a variety of electronic data processing equipment such
as computer consoles, card readers, printers, tape drives and
remote job entry stations. Shift work and an irregular schedule
may be required in some positions. Performs related work as
required.
Distinguishing Characteristics
This level is distinguished by size and scope of system and
more limited responsibility for error identification and
correction. Positions at this level may involve more limited and
specialized assignments in the operation of tape drives, line
printers, card readers, or in the monitoring of more routine job
execution. At this level, all but minor processing problems are
referred to a senior operator, shift supervisor or unit
supervisor.
Examples of Work
Operates computer console, card readers, card punch, tape and
disk drives and remote job entry stations to process a variety
of computer programs and data.
Loads and mounts cards, paper, tapes and disks onto equipment;
activates job start.
Monitors job progress on computer console; checks for system
and equipment errors; takes corrective action in response to
minor error messages.
Checks operation of machines and printers to assure proper
alignment and sequence of forms; removes jammed forms and cards.
Notifies supervisor, programmer/analyst, user agency or vendor
representative of program or equipment problems.
Reviews completed jobs to ensure compliance with user agency
or vendor representative of program or equipment problems.
Reviews completed jobs to ensure compliance with user agency
specifications; maintains job status logs.
Performs routine maintenance and cleaning duties such as
replacing ribbons and changing ribbon trains; cleans printer,
tape and disk drives and the work area; maintains stock of paper,
cards and other supplies in the work area; assists in controlling
inventory of supplies and documenting supply usage.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Knowledge of the techniques and procedures used in the
operation of computer equipment, including computer consoles,
card reader, card punch, printers, tape and disk drives and
remote job entry stations.
Knowledge of the operation of the data processing unit.
Knowledge of machine codes and error messages used in computer
operations.
Knowledge of job control language.
Ability to interpret machine codes and error messages and take
corrective action.
Ability to interpret technical operators' manuals.
Ability to follow detailed oral and written instructions.
Ability to develop effective working relationships with
operations personnel, hardware and software support personnel,
user agency and vendor representative.
Minimum Qualifications
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Training:
Graduation from a standard four-year high school or
equivalent.
Experience:
Six months of experience in the operation of a
variety of standard computer equipment including computer
consoles, tape drives and printers.
Substitution:
(1) Six hours of college/university credit in
computer science courses or, (2) two courses in data
processing from an accredited business or vocational school may
be substituted for the required experience.
Established: 3/21/96
Effective:
7/16/96