computer-hardware-engineering-technician/references/tasks.md

Tasks & work activities — computer hardware engineering technician

Source: O*NET 30.3, occupation 49-2011.00 (Computer, Automated Teller, and Office Machine Repairers).

Task statements

• [Core] Converse with customers to determine details of equipment problems.
• [Core] Reassemble machines after making repairs or replacing parts.
• [Core] Travel to customers' stores or offices to service machines or to provide emergency repair service.
• [Core] Reinstall software programs or adjust settings on existing software to fix machine malfunctions.
• [Core] Advise customers concerning equipment operation, maintenance, or programming.
• [Core] Test new systems to ensure that they are in working order.
• [Core] Assemble machines according to specifications, using hand or power tools and measuring devices.
• [Core] Operate machines to test functioning of parts or mechanisms.
• [Core] Maintain records of equipment maintenance work or repairs.
• [Core] Install and configure new equipment, including operating software or peripheral equipment.
• [Core] Maintain parts inventories and order any additional parts needed for repairs.
• [Core] Update existing equipment, performing tasks such as installing updated circuit boards or additional memory.
• [Core] Align, adjust, or calibrate equipment according to specifications.
• [Core] Test components or circuits of faulty equipment to locate defects, using oscilloscopes, signal generators, ammeters, voltmeters, or special diagnostic software programs.
• [Core] Repair, adjust, or replace electrical or mechanical components or parts, using hand tools, power tools, or soldering or welding equipment.
• [Core] Complete repair bills, shop records, time cards, or expense reports.
• [Core] Disassemble machines to examine parts, such as wires, gears, or bearings for wear or defects, using hand or power tools and measuring devices.
• [Core] Clean, oil, or adjust mechanical parts to maintain machines' operating efficiency and to prevent breakdowns.
• [Core] Enter information into computers to copy programs from one electronic component to another or to draw, modify, or store schematics.
• [Core] Read specifications, such as blueprints, charts, or schematics, to determine machine settings or adjustments.
• [Core] Lay cable and hook up electrical connections between machines, power sources, and phone lines.
• [Core] Analyze equipment performance records to assess equipment functioning.
• [Core] Fill machines with toners, inks, or other duplicating fluids.
• [Core] Train new repairers.
• [Supplemental] Calibrate testing instruments.

Detailed work activities

• Adjust equipment to ensure optimal performance.
• Align equipment or machinery.
• Analyze test or performance data to assess equipment operation.
• Assemble mechanical components or machine parts.
• Calibrate equipment to specifications.
• Clean equipment, parts, or tools to repair or maintain them in good working order.
• Confer with customers or users to assess problems.
• Connect electrical components or equipment.
• Disassemble equipment to inspect for deficiencies.
• Document operational activities.
• Enter codes or other information into computers.
• Install electrical components, equipment, or systems.
• Install programs onto computer or computer-controlled equipment.
• Lay cables to connect equipment.
• Lubricate equipment to allow proper functioning.
• Maintain inventories of materials, equipment, or products.
• Maintain repair or maintenance records.
• Maintain work equipment or machinery.
• Order materials, supplies, or equipment.
• Read technical information needed to perform maintenance or repairs.
• Reassemble equipment after repair.
• Repair worn, damaged, or defective mechanical parts.
• Replace worn, damaged, or defective mechanical parts.
• Test electrical circuits or components for proper functioning.
• Test mechanical equipment to ensure proper functioning.
• Test mechanical systems to ensure proper functioning.
• Train customers in the use of products.
• Train others in operational procedures.
• Travel to work sites to perform installation, repair or maintenance work.