Although some of the most modern and sophisticated computers have a self-diagnosing capacity that identifies problems, computer repairers must know enough about systems software to determine if the malfunction is in the hardware or in the software. Employment Computer and office machine repairers held about 134,000 jobs in 1994. Approximately 75,000 worked mainly on computer equipment, and the other 59,000 repaired mainly office machines. Three of every 5 were employed by wholesalers of computers and other office equipment, including the wholesaling divisions of equipment manufacturers, and by firms that provide maintenance services for a fee. Others worked for retail establishments and some with organizations that serviced their own equipment.
Repairers work throughout the country, even in relatively small communities.
Most repairers, however, work in large cities, where computer and office equipment is concentrated. Job Outlook Employment of computer and office machine repairers is expected to faster than the average for all occupations through the year 2005. However, employment of repairers will grow less rapidly than the anticipated increase in the amount of equipment because of the improved reliability of computer and office machines and ease of repair. Applicants for computer repairer positions will have the most favorable job prospects. Employment of those who repair computers is expected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations.