The result is that fewer and fewer operators will be needed to perform more highly skilled work. Computer operators or peripheral equipment operators who are displaced by automation may be reassigned to support staffs that maintain personal computer networks or assist other members of the organization. Operators who keep up with changing technology, by updating their skills and enhancing their training, should have the best prospects of moving into other areas such as network administration. Others may be retrained to perform different job duties, such as supervising an entire operations center, maintaining automation packages, or analyzing computer operations to recommend ways to increase productivity. In the future, operators who wish to continue in the computer field will need to know more about programming, automation software, graphics interface, and open systems in order to take advantage of changing opportunities.
Salaries generally are higher in large organizations than in small ones.
Applicants with operations experience started at higher salaries. Other occupations involving work with computers include computer scientists and systems analysts , programmers , and computer service technicians. Other occupations in which workers operate electronic office equipment include data entry keyers, secretaries , typists and word processors , and typesetters and compositors. Sources of Additional Information For information about work opportunities in computer operations, contact firms that use computers such as banks, manufacturing and insurance firms, colleges and universities, and data processing service organizations. The local office of the State employment service can supply information about employment and training opportunities.