Computer operator

Person who oversees the running of computer systems

A computer operator is a role in IT which oversees the running of computer systems, ensuring that the machines, and computers are running properly. The job of a computer operator as defined by the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics is to "monitor and control and respond to enter commands set controls on computer and peripheral devices. This Excludes Data Entry."

The position has evolved from its beginnings in the punched card era. A Bureau of Labor Statistics report published in 2018 showed that, in the public sector, a major employer of those categorized as Computer Operator was United States Postal Service. In the private sector, companies involved in data processing, hosting, or related services employed computer operators at an even higher rate. The states with the highest employment for computer operators, as of 2018, are: New York, Texas, California, New Jersey, and Florida.

Historically, tape operators were in charge of swapping out reels of paper tape, reels of magnetic tape or magnetic tape cartridges that stored computer data or instructions.

In addition to filing or delivering computer printouts, a printer operator at times loads standard or, as directed by a console operator or a remote console, specialized forms.

The tab operator (short for tabulating) would be responsible for preparing and operating tabulating machines to produce statistical results. Hardware such as the IBM 08x sorter series were called tabulating equipment. The 1980 census specifically counted Tab operators ("Tabulating machine operator").

A tape librarian is responsible for the management, storage, and reporting involving data storage tapes. The tape librarian would develop and/or maintain an organization system for the storage and retrieval of tapes, and assist in disaster recovery. Additionally, the librarian would ensure the integrity of the tapes, and submit recommendations for replacement when needed. Some examples of equipment a tape librarian may work with are the IBM 3850.