Computer, Automated Teller, and Office Machine Repairers

O*NET 49-2011.00 · SOC 49-2011

Computer is a risky career choice. Median pay is $48k a year with -3% projected growth through 2035 (declining) and about 6,100 openings a year. AI exposure: Moderate.

Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27

Projected Growth
+-3%
2025–2035
Median Salary
$48k
BLS OEWS, May 2025
Annual Openings
6k
positions/year
Education Level
Zone 3
Medium preparation needed (vocational or associate's)

What You'd Actually Do

  • →Diagnose malfunctions in computers, ATMs, or office machines
  • →Replace faulty circuit boards, hard drives, or printer components
  • →Clean and lubricate mechanical parts inside copiers and printers
  • →Test repaired machines to confirm they function correctly
  • →Travel to customer sites to perform on-site equipment repairs

Education & How to Get In

📋
Job Zone 3
Medium preparation needed (vocational or associate's)

Most Computer positions require an associate degree or vocational training. Many community colleges and technical schools offer relevant programs that can be completed in 1–2 years, often with hands-on clinical or lab experience built in.

Get Started Learning

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Work Environment

Primary Setting

Hands-on, labs, workshops, or field sites

Work Style

Mixed, alternates between solo focused work and collaboration

A Day in the Life

While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Computer involves a mix of core responsibilities:

MorningDiagnose malfunctions in computers, ATMs, or office machines
MiddayReplace faulty circuit boards, hard drives, or printer components
AfternoonClean and lubricate mechanical parts inside copiers and printers

Personality Fit (RIASEC)

Realistic (Doers)5.8
Conventional (Organizers)5.5
Investigative (Thinkers)2.6
Enterprising (Persuaders)1.8
Social (Helpers)1.8
Artistic (Creators)1.0

Who Thrives as Computer?

Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.

ISTJThe InspectorISTPThe CraftspersonESTJThe ExecutiveISFJThe Protector

Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →

See Open Computer Roles

Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.

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Job Outlook

Employment of Computer, Automated Teller, and Office Machine Repairers is projected to decline 3% from 2025 to 2035, declining for all occupations.

Will AI Replace This Job?

39/100Moderate, likely AI-complementary
  • ·46% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target
  • ·35% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress
  • ·Industry sector with low automation exposure

Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.

Common Questions

How much does a Computer make?

The median Computer earns $48k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.

Will AI replace Computer jobs?

Our model puts Computer at 39 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is moderate, likely AI-complementary. The main drivers: 46% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target; 35% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress.

Is Computer a growing field?

Employment is projected to shrink 3% between 2025 and 2035, which is declining. That works out to roughly 6,100 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.

What degree do you need to be a Computer?

Most Computer roles expect an associate degree, apprenticeship or vocational certificate rather than a four-year degree.

How long does it take to become a Computer?

Typically one to two years, typically an associate degree, apprenticeship or vocational program. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 3 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.

Is a Computer career right for you?

Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.

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