Computer Operators: Salary, Job Description, How To Become One, and Quiz

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Computer Operators

Computer Operators monitor and control electronic computer and peripheral electronic data processing equipment to process business, scientific, engineering, and other data according to operating instructions. Monitor and respond to operating and error messages. May enter commands at a computer terminal and set controls on computer and peripheral devices.

Salary
$42390
Becoming One
Medium
Education
Bachelor's degree
Job Satisfaction
Job Growth

Personality



Job description

Computer Operators monitor and control electronic computer and peripheral electronic data processing equipment to process business, scientific, engineering, and other data according to operating instructions. Monitor and respond to operating and error messages. May enter commands at a computer terminal and set controls on computer and peripheral devices.

  • Enter commands, using computer terminal, and activate controls on computer and peripheral equipment to integrate and operate equipment.
  • Oversee the operation of computer hardware systems, including coordinating and scheduling the use of computer terminals and networks to ensure efficient use.
  • Monitor the system for equipment failure or errors in performance.
  • Answer telephone calls to assist computer users encountering problems.
Read more about what does a Computer Operator really do at work and what is it like being and working as one.



Salary

Average salary
$46750 per year

Average hourly wage
$22 per hour


Computer Operators with little to no experience tend to make between $27490 and $35260 while the more experienced ones can earn over $58150 per year.

Top 5 paying states Hourly Annual
DC $29 $60,100
AK $28 $57,770
CA $25 $52,480
WA $25 $52,470
MA $25 $52,030

One of the easiest ways to increase your salary as a Computer Operator is to move to a higher paying state like DC. Right now, the highest paying states for Computer Operators are DC, AK, CA, WA and MA.

However, a higher pay at DC doesn’t guarantee that you will make more because the living expenses at DC might be twice as high than where you are currently at now.

Three other factors that can increase your salary as a Computer Operator is the degree you hold, the industry you work in, and lastly the company you work for.


Requirements

Recommended degree level
Bachelor’s degree

We asked other Computer Operators what degree they had when they got the job and most of them said they had a Bachelor’s Degree followed by a High School Diploma.

Other than that, we also asked them what did they major in and here are the most popular majors that came up.

Data Processing and Data Processing Technology/Technician
Read more about how to become a Computer Operator and the degree, training and education you need.

Pros and Cons

Here are some of the pros and cons of being a Computer Operator.

PROS
Suitable for people who likes to follow routines
Suitable for people who wants to work in a supportive work environment
This career is perfect for people who love to work indoors.
It is not too difficult to get into this career. Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for this career.
CONS
Not suitable for people who likes to work with designs
Salary is below average
Demand for this career is declining

What is the job like

Job satisfaction
64%

Is this job meaningful
43%


64% of Computer Operators said they were satisfied with their job and 43% said they feel like their job is making other people’s lives better.


Is this right for me

Best personality for this career
The Organizers and The Builders

You can read more about these career personality types here.

People who are suitable for this job tends to like following set procedures and routines. They like working with data and details more than with ideas..

They also like work activities that include practical, hands-on problems and solutions. They like working with plants, animals, and real-world materials like wood, tools, and machinery.



Learn more about Computer Operators

Summary (You are here)
Job Description
Salary
Requirements
Quiz

Related career information

Computer Operators job description, Computer Operators salary, Computer Operators information, what is the job of a Computer Operator like, pros and cons about Computer Operators, colleges and universities for Computer Operators, is Computer Operators the right career for me, careers in Office and Administration

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