Office Machine Servicers perform the following tasks:

• Assemble and install office machines for customers.
• Train office personnel to operate and care for machines.
• Disassemble machine and examine parts defects.
• Order replacement parts as needed.
• Read specifications, such as charts and schematics, to find out machine settings and adjustments.
• Use specialized tools such as voltmeter, ohmmeter, and circuit test equipment.
• Reassemble machine after making repairs or replacing parts.
• Test machine for proper operation.
• Inspect machines to identify and resolve problems before they result in a breakdown.
• Lubricate parts to reduce wear.
• Adjust components to manufacturer specifications to ensure efficient operation.

Office Machine Servicers carry commonly used spare parts in their vehicles. If the repairs cannot be completed at the customer's office, the machine is taken to the shop for repair. In some cases, the Servicer will provide the customer with a machine to use while the customer's machine is being repaired.

• Mechanical - Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, benefits, repair, and maintenance.
• Repairing - Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.
• Reading Comprehension - Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
• Troubleshooting - Determining what is causing an operating error and deciding what to do about it.
• Operation and Control - Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
• Testing - Conducting tests to determine whether equipment, software, or procedures are operating as expected.
• Installation - Installing equipment, machines, wiring, or programs to meet specifications.
• Equipment Maintenance - Performing routine maintenance and determining when and what kind of maintenance is needed.
• Instructing - Teaching others how to do something.
• Equipment Selection - Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job.
• Near Vision - The ability to see details of objects at a close range.

Good customer service skills are vital for Office Machine Servicers. They must maintain a professional manner while working on the customer’s equipment and handle customer complaints with tact. Some machines are diagnosed by changes in sound, requiring Office Machine Servicers to have good hearing.

Most Office Machine Servicers make service calls at the customer’s place of business. Some Servicers work only in a shop and may be called bench technicians. On outside service calls, Servicers run into conditions ranging from comfortable modern offices to makeshift spaces in factories and warehouses. Unless the Servicer has an in-shop job, driving is required to go from one service call to another or back to the shop. Servicing office machines is cleaner and does not make the heavy physical demands of other mechanical trades. However, Servicers must be able to lift or move the various machines they repair, which may weigh up to 80 pounds. Shops are generally well lighted. The work involves handling small parts. Work at the shop is typically performed at workbenches high enough to permit workers to stand or use a tall stool. Servicers usually provide their own kit of standard hand tools. Employers normally furnish necessary tools.

Union membership depends on the size and location of the employer.

The following information is from the occupational projections produced by the Employment Development Department's Labor Market Information Division:

Office Machine Servicer employment will grow faster than average compared with all occupations in California.

Employment growth will be spurred by more kinds of office equipment that need to be maintained. The trend for home offices adds to the number of fax and copying machines that need service.

Office Machine Servicers usually work 40 hours per week, Monday through Friday. Overtime work may be plentiful in some shops. Most employers provide transportation or reimburse employees for the use of their own vehicles on service calls.

Company size often determines the availability of medical insurance, vacation, sick leave, and other benefits.

Classroom training that includes courses in electronics, electricity, and office machine repair is always desirable and becoming mandatory for many jobs. Many manufacturers train their own Servicers or those from other firms to repair their machines. Completion of such training allows Servicers to become ‘factory-trained’ technicians.

Mechanical aptitude, good manual dexterity, and knowledge of electronics and electricity are usually required of Office Machine Servicers. Prospective employees may be required to pass pre-employment tests in these areas. In some establishments, workers must be bondable because they perform work where there is ready access to money and other valuables. A valid California driver's license is required for Servicers who work in the field.

Some manufacturers and associations provide certification on products or skills.

Office machines are increasingly part of network devices rather than stand-alone equipment. This will require additional skills in digital technology for the Office Machine Servicer to communicate effectively with computer technicians.

Direct application to employers remains one of the most effective job search methods. Applicants interested in on-the-job training should check with equipment manufacturers. Look for employers of Office Machine Servicers under the following headings in the yellow pages: Copy Machines & Supplies; Copy and Duplicating Service; Fax Equipment & Systems; Fax Repair; Postage Meters & Mailing Equipment; Cash Registers & Supplies; Dictating Machines & Supplies. Some large organizations such as universities, school districts, hospitals, and copying centers may employ full-time Office Machine Servicers because they have such a high volume of equipment to maintain.