Lead Computer Operator

Location: Washington, D.C. (On-site)

Clearance: N/A

Job Type: Full-time, Government Contract

Contract Type: Base Year + 2 Option Years (Anticipated Start: December 12, 2026)

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Lead Computer Operator to support mainframe data center operations at the U.S. Government Publishing Office (GPO) in Washington, D.C. This role provides critical operational support for high-speed printing and mainframe processing operations, serving as the shift lead responsible for overseeing daily production activities.

The ideal candidate is a seasoned mainframe operator with in-depth experience in TSO/ISPF environments, job scheduling, and high-speed printer operations. This position requires strong leadership abilities, exceptional troubleshooting skills, and the capacity to work effectively under pressure in a production environment.

This is a non-personal services contract position. The contractor employee reports directly to the Prime Contractor for all human resources, disciplinary, and administrative matters, while receiving work direction and prioritization from GPO's Production Control Lead and Data Center Manager.

Key Responsibilities

Printer Operations & Maintenance

• Operate and maintain high-speed laser printers, impact printers, and burster equipment within a mainframe data center environment
• Set up printers based on instructions from mainframe computer consoles
• Load paper, toner, and developer as required for print tasks
• Remove and organize completed print jobs for customer distribution
• Unload boxes of paper and forms as needed for print tasks
• Maintain a clean and organized printer area by removing empty boxes, toner containers, and loose paper

Mainframe Operations & Job Management

• Execute job scheduling, monitoring, and troubleshooting within TSO/ISPF environments
• Process and manage report distribution to end-users
• Submit, schedule, and track jobs using JCL within TSO
• Communicate directly with mainframe operating system or printer maintenance contractors during system or printer malfunctions

Leadership & Supervision

• Provide shift leadership and direction to assigned computer operator(s)
• Ensure all operational tasks are completed in accordance with production schedules
• Serve as the primary point of contact for shift-related issues and escalations
• Coordinate with Production Control staff to ensure seamless workflow

Administrative Support

• Notify the baling room when recycle bins are full
• Support Production Control staff with operational assistance as needed
• Ensure timely execution of print jobs and accurate handling of scheduled tasks

Deliverables

• Timely execution of all assigned print jobs and scheduled tasks
• Accurate handling and tracking of report distribution to end-users
• Maintain operational efficiency and minimal downtime during assigned shifts
• All work reviewed and accepted by the designated GPO Contracting Officer's Representative (COR)

Required Qualifications

Education: High School Diploma or equivalent

Experience: Minimum two (2) years of experience in mainframe computer operations, including experience with high-speed printers and TSO/ISPF environments

Citizenship: N/A

Security: N/A

Technical Skills: Proficient in TSO/ISPF; experience with JCL (Job Control Language); knowledge of mainframe printing operations including laser and impact printers

Language: Proficient in written and verbal English

Typing: Proficient typing skills

Leadership: Demonstrated supervisory or lead operator experience in a data center or production environment

Interpersonal: Ability to work effectively in a team environment; strong communication and problem-solving skills

Judgment: Ability to exercise sound judgment and work independently with minimal supervision

Physical: Ability to lift and unload boxes of paper and forms; ability to stand for extended periods

Schedule & Work Conditions

• Monday through Friday (Shift Options: 7:00 AM - 3:30 PM or 3:00 PM - 11:30 PM)
• Two (2) operators per shift, including one (1) Lead Operator per shift
• Location: U.S. Government Publishing Office, 732 North Capitol Street NW, Washington, D.C. 20401
• On-site training provided
• All necessary equipment and supplies furnished by the Government
• Federal holidays off as designated by the Government

Required Experience to Highlight on Resume

• Operating high-speed laser printers, impact printers, and bursters in a mainframe data center
• Job scheduling, monitoring, and troubleshooting within TSO/ISPF environments
• Using JCL (Job Control Language) for job submission and tracking
• Report distribution and print job management
• Supervisory or shift lead experience in a production/data center environment
• Communication with technical support and maintenance contractors

Additional Requirements

• All work must be performed on-site at the GPO facility in Washington, D.C.
• Contractor employee reports directly to the Prime Contractor for HR, disciplinary, and administrative matters
• Government provides access to facilities, equipment, and mainframe systems only
• Must adhere to GPO security and operational policies

Equal Opportunity Employer

We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.