By University of Phoenix
The main responsibilities of tech support specialists can be divided into two categories according to the end users they serve. Computer network support specialists serve internal employees while computer user support specialists serve external users (customers).
The responsibilities of computer network support specialists involve providing technical support to help to diagnose and resolve issues with a business’s computer systems or local area network. Meanwhile, computer user support specialists assist a company’s outside customers who need help using a computer-based product such as an operating system.
Prepare for an IT career — and have the freedom to learn when you want online, 24/7/365.
To be successful and excel in a career as an tech support specialist, you need a mix of skills: hard skills that are specific to the field and soft skills that are desirable for a range of careers. Important hard skills include:
Because of their technical nature and valuable on-the-job training, IT support jobs are often viewed as entry level on the path toward other IT careers, such as system administration, cybersecurity or app development.
The job of an IT technician involves technical knowledge. As such, roles often require some sort of specialized training. However, a college degree isn’t always necessary.
An associate or bachelor’s degree in computer science or an information technology field can help teach you helpful skills in this field. Some employers may prefer degrees from their applicants. Companies may also require employees to have earned certifications in the products a company uses, such as Cisco and Microsoft certifications. Other industry certifications, such as those offered by CompTIA and EC-Council, may also be preferred or even required.
Since much of the job’s responsibilities involve helping clients with problems, employers may prefer candidates who have experience in customer service or technical support.
Candidates with previous experience in the same field or in related computer systems roles may also have an advantage in the hiring process. Some employers like to see that potential hires have practical knowledge and hands-on experience.
read similar articles
If you have related experience, be sure to highlight it in your resumé. If you haven’t worked in any relevant positions in the field, try to highlight any duties or skills from past jobs that are relevant to the position you’re applying for. Including a cover letter will also give you a chance to contextualize skills and knowledge that would be helpful in the position.
Keeping in touch with previous co-workers and supervisors can be helpful too, in case you need a reference or recommendation. Furthermore, remember that even though the goal of a resumé is to be concise, you will get more opportunities to explain skills and experiences during a job interview. Prepare to answer questions thoroughly, and have some questions about the tech support specialist role prepared to ask the interviewer.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), IT support specialists are an in-demand field that’s projected to grow by 6% from 2021 to 2031, which suggests that computer support specialist careers offer stability as well as growth opportunities. As of May 2021, the annual salary range for a full-time tech support specialist was between $38,560 and $102,410, according to BLS. Technician salary and job responsibilities can differ by company and may vary based on location, experience, education level and certifications.
Salary ranges are not specific to students or graduates of University of Phoenix. Actual outcomes vary based on multiple factors, including prior work experience, geographic location and other factors specific to the individual. University of Phoenix does not guarantee employment, salary level or career advancement. BLS data is geographically based. Information for a specific state/city can be researched on the BLS website.
If you’re interested in becoming an IT support specialist, you may want to consider earning an education in information technology. University of Phoenix (UOPX) offers an Associate of Arts in Information Technology degree that introduces students to IT concepts for entering this field. To learn more about how UOPX can support your educational journey, visit phoenix.edu.
want to read more like this?
About University of Phoenix
As pioneers in online higher education since 1989, University of Phoenix is an accredited online university for working adults. We are proud to offer quality educational pathways through flexible, career-focused online degrees, certificates and professional development courses that fit into your life and options to save you time and money. Our students are supported every step of the way, including career services for life.
Let us help you take the most direct path to your future career goals. We’re ready when you are.
More than 100 online programs aligned to 300+ careers.
Explore professional development and earn credentials.
Learn ways you can save as you pursue your goals.