Computer, ATM, and Office Machine Repairers

What They Do

Computer, ATM, and office machine repairers repair, maintain, or install computers, word processing systems, automated teller machines, and electronic office machines, such as duplicating and fax machines.

Duties

Computer, ATM, and office machine repairers typically do the following:

• Travel to customers' locations in response to service requests
• Communicate with customers to determine the source of a problem
• Perform administrative tasks, such as completing work order forms
• Use a variety of tools, such as a multimeter, to help diagnose problems
• Replace malfunctioning machine parts, such as video cards in desktop computers or keypads on ATM machines
• Install large equipment, such as mainframe computers or ATMs
• Test newly installed systems to make sure they work properly
• Explain the basic functions of machines and equipment to customers
• Provide preventive maintenance, such as cleaning the internal parts of machines

In most cases, machines do not break down entirely. Often just one broken part can keep a machine from working properly. Repairers fix machines by replacing these parts and other defective equipment because it is often less expensive than replacing the entire machine. They work with a number of advanced diagnostic tools and techniques, and use technology to test various processes and evaluate results. For example, they may remotely access a computer to run diagnostic tests.

Although the work of computer, ATM, and office machine repairers is very similar, the exact tasks differ depending on the type of equipment. For example, computer repairers replace desktop parts, such as a motherboard, in case of hardware failure. ATM repairers may replace a worn magnetic head on a card reader to allow an ATM to recognize customers’ bank cards. Office machine repairers replace parts of office machines that break down from general wear and tear, such as the printheads of inkjet printers.

Some repairers have assigned areas where they do preventive maintenance on a regular basis.

Computer repairers service and repair computer parts, network connections, and computer equipment, such as an external hard drive or computer monitor. Computer repairers must be familiar with various operating systems and commonly used software packages. Some work from repair shops, while others travel to customers' locations.

ATM repairers install and repair automated teller machines and, increasingly, electronic kiosks. They generally work with a network of ATMs and travel to ATM locations when they are alerted to a malfunction.

Office machine repairers fix machinery at customers’ workplaces because these machines are usually large and stationary, such as office printers or copiers. Office machines often need preventive maintenance, such as cleaning, or replacement of commonly used parts as they break down from general wear and tear.

How to Become a Computer, automated teller, or office machine repairer

Education and training:

• Typical entry-level education: Some college, no degree
• Work experience in a related occupation: None
• Typical on-the-job training: Short-term on-the-job training

Get the education you need: Find schools for Computer, ATM, and Office Machine Repairers near you!

Most computer, ATM, and office machine repairers take some classes after high school. This is especially important for ATM repairers who work on complex machines. Prospective workers may take postsecondary classes in computers and electronics, network hardware configuration, electrical engineering, machine repair, or computer/digital technology.

In these classes students learn how to troubleshoot major issues, such as discovering which part is causing a machine to malfunction. A basic understanding of mechanical equipment is important because many of the parts that fail in office machines and ATMs, such as paper loaders, are mechanical. Those who do not take college classes may gain this knowledge though military training or high school vocational classes.

Computer, automated teller, and office machine repairer Salaries

• 2020 employment: 102,400
• May 2021 median annual wage: $40,970

Job Outlook for Computer, ATM, and Office Machine Repairers

Projected employment change, 2020-30:

• Number of new jobs: -2,200
• Growth rate: -2 percent (Decline)

*Some content used by permission of the Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor.

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