Employers

Approximately 96,400 computer, automated teller, and office machine repairers are employed in the United States. While banks and credit unions do hire technicians, the majority of work is available from businesses that contract with banks for the maintenance of ATMs. Armored truck services such as Brinks hire first and second line technicians, as do suppliers of ATMs and parts. Most technicians will find jobs with ATM installation and service companies that maintain the many ATMs in grocery and convenience stores, malls, department stores, and other citywide locations. A small percentage of ATM servicers are self-employed.

Starting Out

Jobs are frequently advertised on employment Web sites and in the classifieds in newspapers. You can find installation companies that hire technicians nationwide by typing "ATM services" in an Internet search engine. ATMmarketplace.com offers information on jobs and ATM manufacturers at its Web site.

Within an installation and repair service, a technician may move on to become a bench technician who handles the more complex repairs that cant be made on-site. Technicians may also go to work for manufacturers to assist engineers in designing equipment. Some technicians also start their own businesses, contracting with banks and credit unions to install and maintain their ATMs.

Advancement opportunities might also be found in areas indirectly related to ATM servicing. Software engineers create software programs that are tailored to the needs of specific businesses. Database administrators design, install, and update computer databases of business information. Sales managers oversee sales staff in direct interaction with customers. Computer and office machine service technicians install, calibrate, maintain, troubleshoot, and repair equipment such as computers and their peripherals, office equipment, and specialized electronic equipment used in factories, hospitals, airplanes, and numerous other businesses.

Join your schools computer club or get a part-time job at a computer repair shop to learn more about electronics equipment and repair.

Become certified in order to show employers that you have met the highest standards established by your industry.

Talk to ATM servicers about their jobs. Ask them for advice on preparing for and entering the field.