Monitor and control electronic computer and peripheral electronic data processing equipment to process business, scientific, engineering, and other data according to operating instructions. May enter commands at a computer terminal and set controls on computer and peripheral devices. Monitor and respond to operating and error messages.
Significant Points
- Computer operators rank among the most rapidly declining occupations over the 2004-14 period because advances in technology are making many of the duties traditionally performed by computer operators obsolete.
- Computer operators usually receive on-the-job training; the length of training varies with the job and the experience of the worker.
- Opportunities will be best for operators who have formal computer education, are familiar with a variety of operating systems, and keep up to date with the latest technology.
National Outlook
| 2004 Total Employment | 149,000 |
| 2014 Expected Employment | 100,000 |
| Change (Percent) | -48,000 ( -32.6) |
| Total Openings | 31,000 |