Computer User Support Specialists
Also called Computer Support Specialist, Computer Tech (Computer Technician), IS Tech (Information Systems Technician), or IT Specialist (Information Technology Specialist)
What Computer User Support Specialists do
Computer User Support Specialists provide technical assistance to computer users. Answer questions or resolve computer problems for clients in person, via telephone, or electronically. May provide assistance concerning the use of computer hardware and software, including printing, installation, word processing, electronic mail, and operating systems.
Who tends to enjoy it
Organizing
People who like keeping things accurate, orderly, and running on schedule.
Hands-on
People who like building, fixing, working with tools, machines, plants, or animals.
Curious
People who like figuring things out, research, science, and solving problems.
What you'd actually do
- Oversee the daily performance of computer systems.
- Set up equipment for employee use, performing or ensuring proper installation of cables, operating systems, or appropriate software.
- Read technical manuals, confer with users, or conduct computer diagnostics to investigate and resolve problems or to provide technical assistance and support.
- Answer user inquiries regarding computer software or hardware operation to resolve problems.
- Install and perform minor repairs to hardware, software, or peripheral equipment, following design or installation specifications.
- Confer with staff, users, and management to establish requirements for new systems or modifications.
- Enter commands and observe system functioning to verify correct operations and detect errors.
- Maintain records of daily data communication transactions, problems and remedial actions taken, or installation activities.
A typical day involves
Skills that matter most
- Reading Comprehension
- Active Listening
- Speaking
- Critical Thinking
- Complex Problem Solving
- Writing
What you'll need to know
- Computers and Electronics
- Customer and Personal Service
- Telecommunications
- English Language
- Education and Training
Where to study for this
College programs that commonly lead to this career, and how many US colleges offer each.
- Computer Support Specialist 301 colleges
- Medical Office Computer Specialist / Assistant 12 colleges
- Agricultural Business Technology / Technician 11 colleges
Related careers
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Considerable preparation
Installation, Maintenance, and Repair
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Medium preparation
Source: O*NET 31.0 Database (USDOL/ETA), occupation 15-1232.00, used under CC BY 4.0 and modified by Whittle. Program links: NCES CIP 2020 to SOC 2018 crosswalk. How we build these pages.