How To Become A Senior Computer Operator: What It Is and Career Path

What is a senior computer operator and how to become one

Updated January 8, 2025

3 min read

Computer operators may fill a wide range of roles, depending on the organization. Usually, they handle the maintenance of computer systems, troubleshoot when necessary, and configure the systems. A senior computer operator usually leads a team of other operators. She or he/she is responsible for the operations in the unit, supervision of staff, and other necessary administrative responsibilities.

A day in the life may involve installing new software, repairing broken systems, restoring internet connectivity, and filing reports. A senior computer operator may also maintain equipment inventory and procure supplies, as needed.

In some settings, the computer operator may also be called an IT specialist because they often perform similar duties. However, the term IT specialist is broader and may encompass more responsibility.

To become a senior computer operator, you need a bachelor's degree in computer engineering or a similar field. Employers also favor professionals with an extensive background in maintaining computer systems when filling this role.

ScoreSenior Computer OperatorUS Average

Salary

3.6

Avg. Salary $46,082

Avg. Salary $59,228

Stability level

5.0

Growth rate 10%

Growth rate 0.3%

Diversity

5.0

Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 0.57%

Asian 12.32%

Black or African American 8.59%

Hispanic or Latino 9.87%

Unknown 4.90%

White 63.75%

Gender

female 24.68%

male 75.32%

Age - 43

Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 3.00%

Asian 7.00%

Black or African American 14.00%

Hispanic or Latino 19.00%

White 57.00%

Gender

female 47.00%

male 53.00%

Age - 43

Stress level

5.0

Stress level is manageable

7.1 - high

Complexity level

6.9

Complexity level is challenging

7 - challenging

Work life balance

6.2

Work life balance is fair

6.4 - fair

Key steps to become a senior computer operator

Explore senior computer operator education requirements

Most common senior computer operator degrees

Associate

42.3 %

Bachelor's

34.7 %

High School Diploma

9.2 %

Start to develop specific senior computer operator skills

Skills	Percentages
Customer Service	9.90%
IBM Mainframe	8.93%
Computer System	7.09%
CAD	5.58%
Unix	4.84%

Complete relevant senior computer operator training and internships

Accountants spend an average of 1-3 months on post-employment, on-the-job training. New senior computer operators learn the skills and techniques required for their job and employer during this time. The chart below shows how long it takes to gain competency as a senior computer operator based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real senior computer operator resumes.

Research senior computer operator duties and responsibilities

Utilize IBM AIX systems to manage print and file transfers ques.
Provide backup support for team leader, manage and schedule daily print via JES2, ZEKE and NetView.
Manage peripheral operations of BARR systems (PC base RJE workstations), storage devices, and Litton laser printers.
Used TSO, JES, MVS to update, delete, add data sets and run reports.

Get senior computer operator experience

Generally, it takes 1-2 years to become a senior computer operator. The most common roles before becoming a senior computer operator include computer operator, lead computer operator team lead and technical support specialist.

Prepare your senior computer operator resume

When your background is strong enough, you can start writing your senior computer operator resume.

You can use Zippia's AI resume builder to make the resume writing process easier while also making sure that you include key information that hiring managers expect to see on a senior computer operator resume. You'll find resume tips and examples of skills, responsibilities, and summaries, all provided by Zippi, your career sidekick.

Choose from 10+ customizable senior computer operator resume templates

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