Special offer 

Jumpstart your hiring with a $100 CAD credit to sponsor your first job.*

Sponsored jobs are 4.5X more likely to result in a hire.**
  • Invite matched candidates to apply
  • Increase your visibility in job search results
  • Appear to more candidates longer

Computer Operator Job Description: Top Duties and Requirements

A Computer Operator, or Computer Terminal Operator, uses cameras, microphones, scanners, and keyboards to record many different types of data for businesses, nonprofit organizations, and government entities. Computer Operators help companies organize important records, access previously recorded information and use computer software to complete tasks quickly and accurately.

Build a Job Description

What does a Computer Operator do?

A Computer Operator can help a company keep track of information and communicate with clients. Most Computer Operators work in offices during regular hours, but some do their jobs at warehouses, factories, restaurants, amusement parks and many other types of businesses. Many Computer Operators work on nights and weekends, and some work for contractors that take care of tasks for multiple companies.

Build a Job Description

Computer Operator Job Description Examples:

Computer Operator duties and responsibilities

Some Computer Operators help with a variety of tasks, and others have more specialized roles. Many Computer Operators focus on data entry, and some work in server rooms or data centers. Computer Operators also ensure that computer software and hardware stay in good working order by checking computer equipment for issues and making updates or repairs when needed. Duties and responsibilities in a Computer Operator job description may include:

  • Receiving and registering documents for future data entry
  • Using data entry to change paper records to a digital format
  • Calculating billing amounts and printing and mailing bills when needed
  • Using software to send invoices and payment reminders electronically, keep track of company budgets, analyze sales statistics and take care of a plethora of other tasks
  • Troubleshooting computer systems when errors occur
  • Changing the settings on computers and other devices when needed
  • Maintaining an inventory of computer components, equipment and storage devices and ordering replacements when necessary

Computer Operator skills and qualifications

Computer Operators are generally friendly, helpful, professional, and organized. Top skills and qualifications for Computer Operators include:

  • Written and verbal communication
  • Ability to follow instructions and work with a variety of people who have different skills, experience levels, and personalities
  • Typing and data entry
  • Organization and attention to detail
  • Ability to use many types of software, including network monitoring and database software
  • Ability to solve problems quickly and work under pressure
  • Ability to learn how to use new computer equipment and software while being able to explain it to others
  • Familiarity with their employer’s industry and common industry terms

Computer Operator experience requirements

Most Computer Operator jobs require one or two years of experience in a similar role, and some have a preference for applicants who have worked in their industry. Some entry-level positions are available as well.

Computer Operator education and training requirements

Most Computer Operator positions require a secondary school diploma or a GED. Many job descriptions also ask for an associate’s degree in computer science, a related field or within the company’s industry. However, some employers of Computer Operators will accept people with secondary school diplomas who have taken typing or data entry courses. Canada doesn’t require any professional licenses or certifications for Computer Operators, but most new employees will go through on-the-job training. The length of on-the-job training varies with different businesses and industries.

Job description samples for similar positions

If a Computer Operator isn’t exactly what your company is looking for, some other related job description samples include:

Ready to Hire?Build a Job Description

Computer Operator job description FAQs

What is the difference between a Computer Operator and a Computer Programmer?

A Computer Operator keeps computer hardware and software running smoothly, enters data, and helps other employees use computer systems. They also use equipment like scanners, voice recorders, cameras, and voice recognition software to record information. Computer Programmers use a range of programming languages to create the software that Computer Operators use. They tell computers exactly how they should respond when Computer Operators execute commands. Computer Programmers can also look for and correct errors in software coding.

Who does a Computer Operator report to?

Computer Operators usually report to an IT Manager or the head of the IT department. However, some Computer Operators work in other departments. Other Computer Operators rotate between departments, reporting to a different manager or department head every day. Computer Operators in smaller organizations sometimes report directly to owners, and they interact with most or all of the people who work there.

What makes a good Computer Operator job description?

Successful Computer Operator job descriptions should include an overview of your business and its history, culture and values. They should also let readers know about the position’s key responsibilities, the location where the new employee will work, what a typical day will be like, and any available benefits such as dental insurance.

Job Description Examples

Need help writing a job description for a specific role? Use these job description examples to create your next great job posting. Or if you’re ready to hire, post your job on Indeed.

No search results found