Information technology (IT) specialists assist people and organizations with computer networks and related problems. They ensure that computer systems are running effectively by doing maintenance and installation.
If you wish to become an IT support technician, this article will guide you in becoming an IT support technician.
Table of contents
Who Is An IT Support Technician?
An IT support technician assists computer users by guiding them in using and troubleshooting various computer networks and equipment. They install, test, and upgrade computer hardware and software to provide technical help. To assist clients in resolving any technical issues, they may be experiencing online; this includes taking calls and participating in live chats.
IT support technicians need an aptitude for programming and problem-solving to be successful in this position.
Talking with folks who may be far less tech-savvy than you about computer issues and operations may take up a significant portion of your usual workday. You’ll need to be able to explain complex technical concepts in straightforward terms.
To successfully diagnose computer issues, if you offer telephone help, you must comprehend the end users’ explanations of their problems. When interacting with anxious or agitated online users, you’ll need to maintain your composure and patience.
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What Are The Duties Of An IT Support Technician
Although many IT support specialists work as permanent employees in businesses that depend on computers, others work for computer suppliers and manufacturers, offering online support services. Regardless of their work environments, IT support technicians complete the following tasks:
- They contact clients to get more information about computer errors
- It is their duty to identify the issues and develop fixes
- They educate clients about solutions
- Install auxiliary devices like scanners and printers
- An IT support technician records computer errors, their causes, and their fixes
- They educate newly licensed technicians
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How Can I Become An IT Support Technician?
Becoming an IT support technician typically involves the following steps:
1. Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent
Many entry-level IT support technician positions require at least a high school diploma or equivalent.
Consider earning an associate degree in computer science or a related field. While not always required, an associate degree can help prepare you for an entry-level IT support technician position and increase your chances of advancement.
According to Zippia, 50.4% of technical support specialists have a bachelor’s degree. Regarding higher education levels, they also found that 4.8% of technical support specialists have master’s degrees.
2. Gain experience through internships or entry-level positions
After earning a degree in a computer-related area, the next step is acquiring job experience.
Even if you have a degree or formal training, gaining hands-on experience can be critical for getting hired as an IT support technician. Look for internships or entry-level positions that allow you to work with IT systems and provide technical support to users.
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3. Obtain relevant certifications
IT support technicians can obtain several certifications, such as the CompTIA A+, which can demonstrate to employers that they have specific knowledge and skills.
Certifications can demonstrate to employers that you possess the minimum knowledge required for this career. You may become a more appealing candidate as a result of them. Even if a job doesn’t require a certification, having one could make your application stand out.
The most common IT certifications are:
- Security 5 Certification
- Certified Network Computer Technician (CNCT)
- Certified Instrumentation Specialist (CIS)
- Master Certified Electronics Technician (CETma)
- Microsoft Certified Desktop Support Technician (MCDST)
- Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
- Cisco Certified Entry Networking Technician (CCENT)
- Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
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4. Continuously Learn and Up-skill
Technology is constantly improving and changing, and IT support technicians should stay current on new technologies and updates in their field to remain effective and improve their chances for advancement.
5. Look for Job Opportunities
Once you have experience and qualifications, you can start looking for IT support technician jobs. Consider applying to various organizations, such as small businesses, large corporations, and government agencies.
During job hunting, you need to keep an open mind. IT support technicians can work in various role settings. Look for opportunities to broaden your experience, including working with different types of clients and technologies.
Update your resume and cover letter before applying for an IT technician position. Clear and understandable resume writing could improve your career prospects. Make sure your CV accurately reflects your relevant experience and education.
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How Much Does An IT Support Technician Make?
The salary for an IT support technician can vary depending on several factors, such as the location, size, type of organization they work for, and their experience and education level.
According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for computer user support specialists, which includes IT support technicians, was $57,910 in May 2024. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $39,430, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $96,580.
Salaries can also vary depending on the industry in which an IT support technician works. For example, IT support technicians in the finance and insurance industries earn higher salaries than those in the education or healthcare industries.
Additionally, IT support technicians who work for larger organizations earn higher wages than those who work for small businesses or startups.
According to data on Zippia, the average annual wage for technical support specialists in the United States is $48,667, or $23 per hour. The least 10% earn less than $30,000 annually, while the richest 10% earn over $76,000 annually.
How Long Does It Take To Become An IT Support Technician?
The time it takes to become an IT support technician can vary depending on several factors, such as the type of training or education you pursue and your prior experience in the field.
One option is to pursue a vocational or trade school program, which typically takes six months to a year to complete. These programs usually focus on IT support and provide hands-on training in the field’s most commonly used skills and technologies.
Another option is to pursue a degree in a related field, such as computer science, information technology, or management information systems. These programs typically take 2-4 years to complete and provide a broader education in the field, including IT, support, software development, network administration, and other related areas.
Additionally, you can gain experience in IT support through internships or entry-level jobs, which could help you learn practical skills, skills that will be used in your workday and help you build a portfolio.
After completing a training program or gaining relevant experience, you may also need certifications in specific technologies or areas of IT support to qualify for certain positions.
Overall, the time to become an IT support technician can range from a few months to several years, depending on your chosen route.
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What Are The Skills Required To Be An IT Support Technician?
You can use a variety of abilities to help you when doing computer science-related jobs. Technical writing tasks like creating technical manuals or briefs can be accomplished with specialized knowledge.
Typically, soft talents are character attributes that you can acquire through time. Some of the necessary skills required to make a successful IT support technician are:
1. Color Perception
You might need to use colored wires and cables if you work as an IT support technician, where these color codes determine the cables and wires plugin. IT specialists who work in certain positions may need to have a full-color vision.
Some people have a certain level of color awareness from birth, while others learn it over time. You can take quick tests online, such as the color plate and hue test, to determine your level of color vision.
2. Attention to detail
Paying attention to detail can be necessary for an IT person. One incorrect placement can cause the code to fail in coding rows containing hundreds of letters and symbols. One of an IT specialist’s most important tasks is spotting system problems and errors. Your ability to pay attention to detail might be enhanced by organizing yourself and challenging your brain with puzzles.
3. Communication
Support staff members may translate complicated technical jargon for a novice. Being an effective communicator is essential to the job of a support technician.
Attending skill-building programs and using good communication techniques like active listening will help you communicate more effectively.
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4. Organization
Computer and information systems can call for a high level of organization. Multiple coding scripts may be necessary for software products to run correctly. You should be more focused when multitasking.
Being organized might help you concentrate on a single activity and minimize errors. You can become more managed by setting goals and controlling your time while planning.
5. Teamwork
You may be required to collaborate with different departments and specialists in many of your IT technician responsibilities. You can share and compile code and software from other IT professionals while developing business programs.
Working as a team can enable special perspectives and abilities. A positive team dynamic can be produced by having a positive outlook and being aware of everyone’s duties.
6. Technical writing
Complex security systems may require IT technicians to write and deploy briefs and manuals. These documents’ material may follow rigid formatting rules. Studying for a bachelor’s or master’s degree is typically the best way to improve your technical writing.
Where Do IT Support Technicians Work?
The job requirements and the business where an IT support professional works determine their workplace environment. The majority of IT support specialists most likely operate in one of the following settings:
- Help desk: Many large tech companies assign a help desk area or service center in or near their sales location where customers can go with their devices to get them fixed. Support team members in these centers can respond to issues and concerns over the phone, chat, or video call.
- In-house support: Large businesses, especially MNCs (multinational companies), and those with complex IT requirements may have their in-house technical support units or teams to help the employees with their technical issues.
- Remote support: Certain IT support technicians even travel to the customer’s location, residence, or business location to resolve their technical problems.
What Is The Work Environment of an IT Support Technician Like?
IT support technicians may work in various settings, including offices, data centers, and other workplaces. They may work on-site with clients or remotely from a home office or a different location.
Working hours can also vary, with some IT support technicians working regular business hours and others working evenings and weekends.
Averagely, tech support specialists put in between 37 and 40 hours per week, Monday through Friday. Some technicians work shifts that include the weekend and evenings.
Although the technicians spend most of their time at their offices, they frequently visit client locations or other company departments to solve issues.
FAQs On How To Become An IT Support Technician
Depending on your area of expertise or experience, obtaining a job in information and technology can be more or less complicated.
An IT support technician is responsible for providing technical assistance to users and troubleshooting computer systems, software, and network issues. This may include setting up new computer systems, training users, configuring and maintaining network equipment, and responding to user support requests.
The qualifications required to become an IT support technician can vary depending on the employer and job requirements. Some employers may require a formal degree in a computer-related field, while others may hire candidates with relevant experience and certifications.
IT support technicians may work in various settings, including offices, data centers, and other workplaces.
Conclusion
Becoming an IT support technician in 2024 is a rewarding and in-demand career path. It involves providing technical assistance and troubleshooting to customers and clients experiencing issues with their technology.
By following the steps listed above, you can be well on your way to becoming a valuable IT support technician by 2024.
References
- au.indeed.com – How To Become an IT Technician: A Detailed Guide
- zippia.com – HOW TO BECOME A TECHNICAL SUPPORT SPECIALIST
- blog.herzing.ca – 5 Steps to Become an IT Support Technician
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