computer support specialist job description and salary

Qualified computer support specialist jobs are appreciated by various employers to provide technical support to computer users. They solve problems and answer questions to avoid downtime while improving the use of hardware, software, peripherals and operating systems. Preparation for work as a Computer Support specialist can be started by enrolling in a bachelor's degree in business administration with a specialization in information systems.

Perspective of a computer specialist

According to national data published by the US Department of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment of computer support specialists will increase by 10% between 2018 and 2028, which is faster than the average for all professions. Growing employment may not guarantee employment in industry. Potential students are encouraged to conduct independent research on actual employment growth rates, which vary depending on location, education and experience.

Tasks of a computer specialist

Regardless of whether you work for an organization that develops, sells or uses computer systems, Computer Support specialists provide individuals and organizations with much-needed technical support, help and advice. Some may be called technical support specialists, while others may be called technical support technicians.

Technical support specialists usually respond to computer users' queries. You can run diagnostic programs to determine the causes and solve problems. Additional tasks may include writing training instructions, training users, and monitoring computer information systems. Troubleshooting local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN) and other systems is a common activity of technical support specialists.

Technical support technicians answer questions by phone, email, live chat, or other means. They usually need to hear the customer's problem, diagnose the nature of the problem, and guide the caller through the steps required to solve the problem. They can help you install software, maintain computer systems, and repair computer hardware.

Customer Service Specialists are usually asked to provide feedback on computer hardware and software, make improvements in future updates, and advise on developing new software.

Although flexible hours are the norm for computer-assisted specialists, most present 40 hours a week. They may be working at a courier location, so travel may be necessary. Weekend and night hours may also be required. Some computer aided specialists work from home.

Potential Salary for Computer Aided Specialists

According to BLS, the median annual salary for computer-assisted specialists was $ 53,470 as of May 2018. The bottom 10% earned less than $ 38,270, while those on the brakes gave the top 10%, including more than $ 105,770 per year. Because salary potential may differ by location, education and experience, prospective students are encouraged to conduct independent research to discover what the employment opportunities are.

Education and training for computer support specialists

A college degree is the standard entry route to specialized computer-assisted operations. Many employers look for applicants with a bachelor's degree in business, computer or information systems. Some show preference for candidates with previous experience, obtained through summer jobs or internships while pursuing a bachelor's degree in business administration.

A successful path to a specialized computer support career can begin with earning a Bachelor of Business Administration with a specialization in Computer Information Systems. The course generally includes management information systems, systems analysis and design, software systems analysis, and business computing skills.

Employers can be assured that individuals who have obtained a Bachelor of Business Administration with a concentration in Computer Information Systems can:

Effectively streamline systems and processes to improve productivity.

Apply the principles of theory and design of operating systems.

Examine various software systems and identify benefits and features.

Apply technical skills and business training to solve real-world problems.

Take advantage of advanced skills and experience to succeed as a computer-assisted expert.

Some employers offer higher education opportunities. It is possible to earn an entry-level position with a bachelor's degree and use a tuition assistance program to pay for a master's degree.

Thinking of a career as a computer support specialist?

Achieving success as a computer support specialist requires excellent verbal and written communication skills and technical experience. You also need interpersonal skills, current business knowledge, and the self-confidence that can be yours when you earn a degree in business administration with a specialization in CIS. Enhance professional support capabilities in supporting your computer with high skill requirements!