County of Alameda

DESCRIPTION

Under general supervision, to operate the more complex functions of a large-scale computer and its auxiliary equipment, and to do related work as required. Computer Operators II may be assigned to install teleprocessing equipment; or may be assigned responsibility for batch computer processing, for the specialized functions of directing magnetic media activities, for controlling a complex network of teleprocessing terminals, or may be assigned lead responsibility for directing documentation activities, or for scheduling all production work and maintaining the scheduling system data base.

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES

Computer Operator II is the journey working level in the computer operator class series. Incumbents in the class spend a majority of time operating a complex multiprocessing computer and its auxiliary equipment, keeping a network of teleprocessing terminals operational or installing teleprocessing terminals. Computer Operators II are typically assigned to a single large scale computer; however, certain incumbents are given the assignments of directing all tape library, certification and quality control activities; by directing the work of the Documentation Unit, or controlling a complex network of teleprocessing terminals, or of scheduling all production activities for all work stations. Computer Operator II’s receive supervision and work assignments from a Senior Computer Operator or higher classification. Positions in the class of Computer Operator II differ from those in the next lower class of Computer Operator I because incumbents in the class of Computer Operator II typically have the responsibility for the operation of all segments of a large-scale computer and its components and may act as lead operators, whereas incumbents in the class of Computer Operator I are entry-level operators working on only segments of a total system and, in general, less complex equipment. In the Data Processing Department, Computer Operator II’s are further distinguished from the next higher class of Senior Computer Operator in that the Computer Operator II’s do not have the responsibility for all work stations on a shift as do Senior Computer Operators.

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES

NOTE: The following are the duties performed by employees in this classification. However, employees may perform other related duties at an equivalent level. Each individual in the classification does not necessarily perform all duties listed.

1. Through the use of a master console, operates a complex computer and its components; receives input data and processes it through the computer system; perform JCL or equivalent code corrections as instructed.

2. Completes several technical training courses as defined by the department.

3. Reports malfunction of computer system to immediate supervisor and programmers; determines cause of machine stoppages and takes action to maintain continuous machine processing; may make minor program revisions as instructed by supervisor or programmer.

4. Documents machine and job problems.

5. Mounts and dismounts magnetic tapes and disk packs.

6. Makes test runs on the computer in order to assure proper program and system functioning in preparation for actual production work.

7. Gives guidance to lower level Computer Operators who are being trained to operate the large-scale computers.

8. Acts to keep teleprocessing terminals on the air.

9. Installs teleprocessing terminals and related equipment.

10. Acts as teleprocessing console commander and oversees all console messages to assure continuous teleprocessing integrity.

11. Schedules the production work for all work stations and maintains the scheduling data base.

12. Incumbents may work independently with vendors to resolve problems and on other computer related tasks.

13. When primarily assigned responsibility for the Magnetic Media Library:

a. Coordinates directly, all magnetic tape library activities; manages the quality control program to ensure tape quality and stock availability.

b. Conducts training as needed.

c. Writes procedures and establishes controls as needed.

d. Defines, analyzes and proposes corrective actions to supervisors on all problems that must be solved at higher levels; management of physical security and privacy of computer tapes.

e. Analyzes work flow and implements efficiency measures as required.

f. Uses software aids to maintain input files.

14. When performing primarily in capacity as Teleprocessing Operator:

a. Performs teleprocessing trouble resolution to ensure a large network of terminals remain operational to a maximum extent.

b. Defines, analyzes and proposes corrective actions to supervisors on all matters affecting teleprocessing.

c. Performs TP related secondary duties as requested by supervisor.

d. Assist Technical Services staff and data processing coordination in providing consultation and advice on teleprocessing problems to other shifts, at all times, including over the phone at night.

e. Assists in the training of other Computer Operators on teleprocessing.

f. Assists supervisor with correspondence, manuals, and procedures related to teleprocessing problems resolution.

g. Replaces modems at remote sites as needed 24 hours per day, seven days per week.

15. When performing primarily in the Documentation Unit:

a. Reviews all job run documentation from programmers and writes procedures.

b. Maintains production JCL according to specified standards.

c. Recommends and enforces documentation and job submission standards.

d. Maintains job run procedures and documentation for all of Computer Services.

e. Trains other employees assigned to the Documentation Unit on all aspects of documentation work.

f. Reviews and recommends techniques for improving the performance of the Documentation Unit.

g. Serves as backup to the Scheduler.

h. Administers the technical training program for operations.

16. When assigned as the Lead Computer Operator II in the Distribution Unit:
a. Plans, assigns, directs, reviews and evaluates the work of five or more persons assigned to the Distribution Unit.

b. Assumes full responsibility for assuring that all computer reports and microfiche are prepared according to specified procedures and are distributed to the end users in a timely manner.

c. Prepares and maintains Distribution Unit documentation and procedures.

d. Confers with supervisors to determine work requirements, report requirements and production deadlines.

e. Trains other operators in the work of the unit.

f. Evaluates machine and job problems and works with vendors and other responsible personnel to correct these problems.

17. When assigned as the Lead Computer Operator II in the hospitals:

a. Assists in coordinating work of all Computer Operator I/Data Processing Technicians.

b. Conducts training as needed.

c. Writes procedures and establishes controls as needed.

d. Management of physical security and privacy of computer tapes.

e. Analyzes work flow and implements efficiency measures as needed.

f. Assists Technical Services staff and data processing coordination in providing consultation and advice on operations problems to other shifts, at all times, including over the phone at night.

g. Manages hospital Help Desk:

1) First contact for report of system problems.

2) Assigns problems to Computer Operator I's for follow up.

3) Performs teleprocessing trouble resolution to ensure that a large network of terminals remain operational.

4) Defines, analyzes and proposes corrective actions to supervisors.

5) Tracks and reports on status of problems.

18. Incumbents may be required to work independently.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Either I

The equivalent of six months of experience in the class of Computer Operator I in the Alameda County classified service (non-classified includes District Attorney’s Office, Hospital Authority, and the Consolidated Courts) and, if in the Data Processing Department, the satisfactory completion of the Computer Operator I Training Requirement.

Or II

For positions in departments other than the Data Processing Department, the equivalent of two years of recent full-time paid experience in the operation of large-scale batch computer systems and/or teleprocessing network operations.

Special Requirement:

The Computer Services Division in some departments operates on a 24 hour-per-day, 7 day-per-week, 365 day-per-year basis. In order to provide these services, all Computer Services Division employees may be required to work grave, swing and day shifts, as well as weekends and holidays as necessary.

NOTE: The Civil Service Commission may modify the above Minimum Qualifications in the announcement of an examination.

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS

KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES:

NOTE: The level and scope of the following knowledge and abilities are related to duties listed under the “Examples of Duties” section of this specification.

Knowledge of:

• Operating Systems, Alameda County WANG VS software packages, procedure language and other computer systems used throughout the County.
• Operation of large-scale computer systems, including the console, its components and peripheral equipment.
• Alameda County teleprocessing network and its hardware and software in order to act as teleprocessing operator or to work as troubleshooter or field installer. The County Library may require knowledge of hardware and software used in a medium size teleprocessing system.
• Data Processing documentation and procedure standards, and documentation techniques in order to work in the Documentation Unit.
• Scheduling System software and computer scheduling techniques in order to perform "Scheduler" duties.
• Certain positions may require knowledge of specialized operating systems software and/or specialized applications software.

Abilities:

• Resolving basic procedure problems.
• Operate a medium to large-scale computer system and peripheral equipment.
• Troubleshoot teleprocessing hardware problems.
• Read, interpret, and follow flow charts, procedural manuals and other written and oral instructions.
• Install teleprocessing terminals, controllers, cables, modem and related equipment.
• Record accurate status of work in process or work completed.
• Work well with others.
• Function effectively under general supervision.
• Work with software aids in order to perform duties in Teleprocessing, the Documentation Unit, and Scheduling.
• Write clear and concise reports or job procedures.
• Speak clearly and concisely, communicate effectively with others so as to be clearly understood on the telephone and in person.
• Communicate technical details to users, programmers, vendors, and others in an effective and understandable manner in order to achieve timely problem resolution.
• Ability to recover from system malfunctions.

Physical Characteristics:

Ability to lift fifty (50) pound boxes and to stand for long periods of time.

License Requirement:

Possession of a valid California Motor Vehicle Operator's License is an ongoing requirement.

CLASS SPEC HISTORY

Old document: JGS:ab Revised 7/85
BG:tc - Revised 1/92
0242h
New document: Jobspecs/1812
ys/12/00

BENEFITS

Alameda County offers a comprehensive and competitive benefits package that affords wide-ranging health care options to meet the different needs of a diverse workforce and their families. We also sponsor many different employee discount, fitness and health screening programs focused on overall well being.  These benefits include but are not limited to*:

For your Health & Well-Being

• Medical – HMO & PPO Plans
• Dental – HMO & PPO Plans
• Vision or Vision Reimbursement
• Share the Savings
• Basic Life Insurance 
• Supplemental Life Insurance (with optional dependent coverage for eligible employees) 
• County Allowance Credit
• Flexible Spending Accounts - Health FSA, Dependent Care and Adoption Assistance
• Short-Term Disability Insurance
• Long-Term Disability Insurance
• Voluntary Benefits - Accident Insurance, Critical Illness, Hospital Indemnity and Legal Services
• Employee Assistance Program

For your Financial Future

• Retirement Plan - (Defined Benefit Pension Plan)
• Deferred Compensation Plan (457 Plan or Roth Plan)

For your Work/Life Balance

• 12 paid holidays
• Floating Holidays
• Vacation and sick leave accrual
• Vacation purchase program
• Catastrophic Sick Leave
• Group Auto/Home Insurance
• Pet Insurance
• Commuter Benefits Program
• Guaranteed Ride Home
• Employee Wellness Program (e.g. At Work Fitness, Incentive Based Programs, Gym Membership Discounts)
• Employee Discount Program (e.g. theme parks, cell phone, etc.)
• Child Care Resources
• 1^st United Services Credit Union 

*Eligibility is determined by Alameda County and offerings may vary by collective bargaining agreement.  This provides a brief summary of the benefits offered and can be subject to change.