SENIOR COMPUTER OPERATOR
DEFINITION
Under direction, acts as console operator and leader of a team of operators responsible for the operation of a single large-scale multiprogrammed computer supporting a complex teleprocessing network with data bases and peripheral devices; or, under an appropriate supervisory official in a less complex computing facility, serves as lead operator or sole operator of a stored-program electronic computer; does related work as required.
NOTE: The definition and examples of work for this title are for illustrative purposes only. A particular position using this title may not perform all duties listed in this job specification. Conversely, all duties performed on the job may not be listed.
EXAMPLES OF WORK:
Communicates through the operator's console(s) with the system control program and/or telecommunications monitor.
Provides the operator's commands necessary for the execution of scheduled production.
Provides appropriate responses to system messages.
Monitors system console(s) for indications of unrecoverable hardware or software errors.
Requests assistance from supervisor for vendor service, personnel, or technical support as required.
Monitors system console(s) for indications of transient hardware errors.
Changes device allocations to avoid use of failure-prone components.
Monitors system input and output queues.
Initiates system readers and writers as appropriate.
Advises the appropriate supervisor of situations which preclude completion of scheduled work so that appropriate rescheduling or reallocation can be accomplished.
Works with other console operators in reconfiguring peripheral device allocations.
Initiates dumps of processor storage and system log data sets in the event of processor operating system or telecommunication monitor malfunctions.
Cooperates with vendor maintenance personnel and technical support specialists in diagnosing and correcting hardware and software problems.
Reports any situations which adversely affect production schedules or work quality.
Ensures that all hardcopy and magnetic output are routed in accord with procedures and that all magnetic media used as input are returned to the proper locations.
Monitors and controls an electronic computer by operating thecentral console.
Instructs, guides, and checks the work of other computer operators.
Assists in scheduling operations and assigning personnel to various items of equipment required for computer functions.
Coordinates activities of the section with other sections in the overall processing department.
Monitors and reports on system performance and efficiency to supervisors.
May act as shift supervisor.
Loads peripheral equipment with forms, cards, and tape files.
Determines and takes corrective action when program stoppage occurs according to directions or operations manual.
Supervise and performs periodic equipment maintenance and cleaning.
Maintains and monitors computer supply inventory.
Verifies that all files and data have been submitted to computer room before beginning a job.
Verifies that reports and other outputs are complete before being sent out.
Keeps accurate records of time and equipment utilization.
Advises programmers or operations manager of nature of operating malfunction and of corrective action taken.
May function as a project or group leader.
Recommends improvement and modification to application job control and job streaming.
Will be required to learn to utilize various types of electronic and/or manual recording and computerized information systems used by the agency, office, or related units.
REQUIREMENTS:
EXPERIENCE:
Two (2) years of experience in the operation of a mainframe/departmental sized computer console in a computer room. (Experience in the operation of a personal computer or LAN system will not be accepted.)
NOTE: Satisfactory completion of a course of study in computer operations at an accredited college, university, technical, or vocational school may be substituted for one (1) year of work experience. (Training in the operation of a personal computer will not be accepted).
LICENSE:
Appointees will be required to possess a driver's license valid in New Jersey only if the operation of a vehicle, rather than employee mobility, is necessary to perform the essential duties of the position.
KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES:
Knowledge of operating commands and responses required to communicate with the operating system.
Knowledge of computer and peripheral device operating procedures and techniques.
Knowledge of job control language function and syntax.
Knowledge of telecommunications hardware and software.
Knowledge of system operating configurations and equipment characteristics, job control language, and standard utility programs.
Ability to react quickly and make appropriate decisions under emergency conditions.
Ability to monitor employee performance and to take corrective and developmental action as required.
Ability to keep abreast of new developments in operating procedures and techniques and to recommend appropriate changes to existing practices and procedures to promote efficiency.
Ability to provide on-the-job training in console operation, tape, and disk handling and the operation of unit record peripherals.
Ability to work harmoniously with other console operators, both on an intershift and intrashift basis, and to effectively communicate the status of work in process and the existence of hardware, software, or media problems.
Ability to perform a variety of standard and nonstandard operating assignments to resolve a wide range of common equipment and operating problems.
Ability to test internal system operating accuracy.
Ability to isolate, identify, and effectively communicate computer hardware problems to appropriate persons.
Ability to utilize accepted data processing procedures, methods, and techniques.
Ability to work harmoniously with staff members and others.
Ability to prepare clear, concise, and accurate reports.
Ability to read, interpret, and correctly respond to information in the form in which it is transmitted through the computer system.
Ability to learn to utilize various types of electronic and/or manual recording and information systems used by the agency, office, or related units.
Ability to read, write, speak, understand, or communicate in English sufficiently to perform the duties of this position. American Sign Language or Braille may also be considered as acceptable forms of communication.
Persons with mental or physical disabilities are eligible as long as they can perform the essential functions of the job after reasonable accommodation is made to their known limitations. If the accommodation cannot be made because it would cause the employer undue hardship, such persons may not be eligible.
This job specification is applicable to the following title code:
