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Census · IT & software · occupation code 15-1232

Computer User Support Specialists

Every task in this role, whether it passes the census's structural hand-over screen, which models pass it, and why. It is a screen, not a claim about what AI can do: a task can pass and still be beyond the systems of the day. The stricter and looser rules re-vote every task, and small differences between roles are noise.

Passes the screen · 1 of 16 tasks

  • Enter commands and observe system functioning to verify correct operations and detect errors.

    quick to check, an existing check settles it, and a mistake is cheap · 5.0% of the role's time · $2.3B · all three pass it

Does not pass

  • Answer user inquiries regarding computer software or hardware operation to resolve problems.

    reason given most often: no existing check settles it · 13.2% of the role's time · $6.0B · waiting on a check

  • Read technical manuals, confer with users, or conduct computer diagnostics to investigate and resolve problems or to provide technical assistance and support.

    reason given most often: no existing check settles it · 12.1% of the role's time · $5.5B · waiting on a check

  • Oversee the daily performance of computer systems.

    reason given most often: nobody can tell quickly whether it worked, and no existing check settles it · 11.3% of the role's time · $5.1B · passed by Gemini 3.1 Pro · the models disagreed

  • Maintain records of daily data communication transactions, problems and remedial actions taken, or installation activities.

    reason given most often: no existing check settles it · 9.9% of the role's time · $4.5B · passed by Claude Sonnet · the models disagreed · waiting on a check

  • Set up equipment for employee use, performing or ensuring proper installation of cables, operating systems, or appropriate software.

    physical work, outside the screen · 9.1% of the role's time · $4.1B

  • Install and perform minor repairs to hardware, software, or peripheral equipment, following design or installation specifications.

    physical work, outside the screen · 8.3% of the role's time · $3.8B

  • Confer with staff, users, and management to establish requirements for new systems or modifications.

    reason given most often: nobody can tell quickly whether it worked, and no existing check settles it · 7.4% of the role's time · $3.3B

  • Inspect equipment and read order sheets to prepare for delivery to users.

    physical work, outside the screen · 5.7% of the role's time · $2.6B

  • Refer major hardware or software problems or defective products to vendors or technicians for service.

    reason given most often: no existing check settles it · 4.4% of the role's time · $2.0B

  • Prepare evaluations of software or hardware, and recommend improvements or upgrades.

    reason given most often: nobody can tell quickly whether it worked, and no existing check settles it · 3.7% of the role's time · $1.7B

  • Develop training materials and procedures, or train users in the proper use of hardware or software.

    reason given most often: nobody can tell quickly whether it worked, and no existing check settles it · 3.6% of the role's time · $1.6B

  • Read trade magazines and technical manuals, or attend conferences and seminars to maintain knowledge of hardware and software.

    reason given most often: nobody can tell quickly whether it worked, and no existing check settles it · 2.0% of the role's time · $890M

  • Modify and customize commercial programs for internal needs.

    reason given most often: nobody can tell quickly whether it worked, and no existing check settles it · 1.8% of the role's time · $812M · passed by Gemini 3.1 Pro · the models disagreed

  • Hire, supervise, and direct workers engaged in special project work, problem-solving, monitoring, and installation of data communication equipment and software.

    reason given most often: nobody can tell quickly whether it worked, and no existing check settles it, and a failure is too expensive · 1.2% of the role's time · $555M

  • Conduct office automation feasibility studies, including workflow analysis, space design, or cost comparison analysis.

    reason given most often: nobody can tell quickly whether it worked, and no existing check settles it · 1.2% of the role's time · $549M

Where this role works