COMPUTER OPERATOR II                                                   0532

 

 

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS

An employee in this class operates computer systems of considerable complexity in the processing of computer programs.  The work involves reading and following operations instructions, controlling the processing of the jobs in the computer through the central console, monitoring the operations of any remote- site input-output terminals through the console, and operating peripheral equipment.  The incumbent checks for causes of equipment malfunction and restarts the computer in accordance with established procedures.  The employee may assist Computer Operators I in learning computer operations and procedures.  Work is performed under the supervision of higher level Computer Operators or other data processing personnel who assign the work and evaluate performance through observation, consultation and review of production and testing output.  Does related work as required.

 

TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES

     Runs programs through the computer in accordance with standard techniques and procedures; follows operating instructions and flow charts prepared by programmers and systems analysts;

     Operates the central console of the computer to control the processing of a job, monitor its status, and keys in appropriate instructions; loads program and data cards; mounts correct tapes and disk packs; operates card readers and printers;

     Monitors the operation of remote-site, on-line terminals through the central console; follows standard procedures to determine the source of terminal malfunctions; keys in instructions through the console to bring up terminals which have shut down;

     Restarts the computer following system breakdowns; runs test programs to determine if the system is functioning correctly and identify file loss; restores lost information to the on-line system from back-up tapes;

     Assists as directed, in the instruction and training of Computer Opera­tors I;

     Observes the computer to see that the system is operating correctly and to check on job status;

     Maintains operating records, including run-logs, production reports and machine performance and maintenance reports.

 

FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS

Good knowledge of the principles, procedures and techniques of electronic computer operations; good knowledge of the procedures to be used in operating computer equipment, including the central control console, magnetic tape drives and disk packs, card readers, printers and related peripheral equipment; ability to follow computer programs through the various phases of operation to final conclusion; ability to read, interpret and enter coded console messages to determine computer status and process computer programs to completion; ability to isolate malfunctions in the operation of computer equipment and to follow procedures in correcting the problems which exist; ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions and procedures to execute various stages of the operations of a program; ability to compile and maintain records on computer operations; physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position.

 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

     OPEN COMPETITIVE

     Graduation from a standard senior high school or possession of a high school equivalency diploma and one (1) year of experience in electronic computer operations which included the operation of a processor that exercises control over a network of communications terminals, disk and tape drives, high speed printers and has a minimum of 1.5 million bytes of main memory.

 

     NOTE:  Additional experience will be substituted for high school education on a year-for-year basis.

Completion of a course in computer operations which has included at least 300 hours of instruction will be substituted for six (6) months of the above exper­ience.

 

     PROMOTIONAL

     One (1) year of permanent competitive status as a Computer Operator I.

 

 

R2/24/92

SUFFOLK COUNTY

Competitive

Review 9/16/08