Traumberuf der 50er: „Büromaschinenmechaniker“

The dream job of the 1950s! "Office Machine Mechanic" From the late 19th to the mid-20th century, mechanical innovations shaped the world of technology. It's no wonder, then, that for technically minded young people, training as an office machine mechanic was a highly sought-after career path. ...Because the office machine mechanic was a specialized trade responsible for the maintenance, repair, and commissioning of office equipment. This profession played a particularly important role from the 1950s to the 1980s, when typewriters, adding machines, and accounting machines were indispensable tools in businesses and government agencies. His duties included, among other things: Repair and maintenance of typewriters, adding machines, and calculating machines Repair of accounting machines, dictation machines, and later, photocopiers Assembly, adjustment, and commissioning of new equipment at customer sites Troubleshooting mechanical, electromechanical, and later, electronic components Manufacturing or adapting small spare parts, as well as performing regular maintenance. Over time, his training evolved from electromechanical technician to information electronics technician. All photographs shown here are from the Heinz Nixdorf MuseumsForum in Paderborn.