Computer Support Specialist

What a Computer Support Specialist Does

To put it simply, a computer support specialist assists people when they are having technical trouble with their computers. It is their responsibility to identify any technological glitches and then try to fix them. Because most of the computer problems can be solved via e-mail or by phone, all computer support specialists need to possess excellent communication and explanatory skills as they need to be able to give step-by-step directions so customers can solve the problems themselves. More complex computer problems are addressed face-to-face. Computer support specialists are also usually responsible for installing everything from software, printers, Wi-Fi, and other computer tools and components. Once installed, they also teach customers how to properly use the new devices and even write instructional handbooks. The day-to-day daily tasks and working schedule for a computer support specialist varies. They can work regular 9 to 5 hours or even nights and weekend shifts. Some example duties include checking their company's computer systems every day to ensure it is operating correctly or working for a school and assisting other teachers and administrators who are having computer issues. Whatever the case, it's imperative that workers are good listeners, have strong problem-solving skills and are patient. Most of their work consists of dealing with people who are not as technologically inclined as they are and it's important that they remember this and be patient when customers do not understand how to correct the issue the first time.

How to Become a Computer Support Specialist

Having an associate or bachelor's degree in a computer-related field such as computer science, computer engineering, or information systems is highly beneficial when applying for a computer support specialist job, but it is not always required. Sometimes, passing a certification test administered by various computer companies and associations will suffice. Through these test scores, prospective employers can evaluate your computer knowledge and skills. If you do not have formal education or certification, some entry level positions can be obtained if you have prior experience working with computers— maybe you can prove you were the go-to computer techie at school high school, old job etc. While some careers can be launched without a degree, it's important to know that this growing industry is somewhat competitive and always changing. It's imperative that computer support specialists keep up to date with new trends and attempt to continue their education either through attending professional training programs offered by employers, hardware and software vendors, colleges and universities or private training institutions to learn new, fresh computer skills throughout their careers.

Career Outlook for Computer Support Specialists

The career outlook for computer support specialists should be pretty good within the next couple of years, particularly for those who have a college degree and possess the appropriate set of computer skills, according the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. According to the Bureau, computer support specialists held about 565,700 jobs in 2008 (the most recent statistics available) and predicts that more job opportunities will continue to increase in parallel to the high number of complex computer systems and programs. Employers will seek workers who can configure these new complex computer systems but who can also teach other colleagues how to work/resolves issues pertaining to these new computers as well. The Bureau predicts that specialist jobs will increase by 14 percent in the 2008-18 decade, faster than the average of several other occupations. According to the Bureau, computer support specialists had average yearly wages of $46,370 in May 2008. While places of employment in this field are endless, the Bureau predicts that the greatest job opportunities will remain in the computer systems design and related services industry, the data processing, hosting and related services industry, the software publishing industry, and the management, scientific, and technical consulting industry.