What Are the Job Requirements for an IT Technician

 As an IT technician, you could be setting up computer systems, solving networking issues, or developing security protocols. You may need formal education to enter the field, and you can pursue optional certification. Read on to learn more about IT technician jobs, duties and requirements. Schools offering Computer Support Technician degrees can also be found in these popular choices.

What Does An IT Technician Do?

A career as an IT technician is perfect for those who can not get enough computers - be it hardware, software, operating systems or programs. Their main job is to keep the company's computer systems, functional and well-maintained. You also see that the employees and customers of the company receive the necessary technical support.

The tasks of IT technicians are manifold. You may be asked to diagnose computers for various problems and system troubleshooting. To determine the problem, they perform tests on computer systems. If minor repairs are required to repair the system, they are also trained to fix it.

You can also install software, install computer hardware, and perform maintenance tasks at scheduled times. IT technicians must, therefore, have extensive computer hardware and software knowledge. You should also know to programme and operating systems so that they can perform their tasks well. They also need to understand how the Internet works and have a background in computer security to protect their networks.

Job Requirements

Computer user support specialists assist users with computer problems in person, through email, or over the phone. They may work in a call centre environment or out in the field. These professionals diagnose computer problems using information from users and provide step-by-step instructions for solving the issues. Other job duties may include training computer users and setting up equipment.

Education and Essential Skills

As an IT technician, also known as a computer user support specialist, you may not need a college degree as long as you are knowledgeable with computers. However, companies may require an associate or bachelor's degree in a technical field. Computer science and information systems are some possible majors, and they introduce you to operating and network systems, as well as programming and software applications and engineering. One of the main differences between an associate's program and a bachelor's program is that bachelor's programs typically include more advanced computer coursework as well as business or management classes.

The computer support field requires that you're willing to pursue continuing education to learn new technologies. Supporting customers requires excellent customer service skills, paired with good speaking and writing skills. You'll need to be able to solve problems efficiently, which requires understanding each problem well.

 

Certification Options

Certification is voluntary within the IT field. As an IT technician, you have numerous options for becoming certified. For example, you can choose to become certified as an IT generalist or in specific software or technology.

Microsoft offers certification in several areas, including Microsoft Certified IT Professional (MCITP) or Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS). The Certified Computer Professional (CCP) and Information Systems Professional (ISP) credentials are available through the Institute for Certification of Computing Professionals. CompTIA offers certification opportunities in A+, Network+, and Security+.

Employment Outlook and Salary

For the decade 2016-2026, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projected an increase in overall employment growth of 11% for computer user support specialists (www.bls.gov). The BLS notes that more professionals will be needed to help companies upgrade their systems and install software. Cloud computing is an important technology driving growth, and the healthcare industry will also need more support specialists. Computer user support specialists were paid a median wage of $50,980, according to May 2018 BLS salary figures.

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