Computer Support

The position of computer support specialist is an information technology position. There are a few different types of computer support specialist, although some of the core job responsibilities are the same no matter what the actual position entails.

Computer support specialists are people who are educated in the use of computers, but not necessarily programming, networking or engineering. They most commonly operate in two different roles.

A computer support specialist can work with end users or customers. In this position, the specialist can diagnose and repair problems with the computer software and hardware. They can also install new software and hardware. Support specialists may also be called upon to instruct new computer users. More rarely, a support specialist may be asked to write technical documentation for procedures they are familiar with.

A computer support specialist can also work in a professional environment. Here they are mostly responsible for assisting members of the information technology team. Duties may include helping with software testing and debugging, maintaining peripheral hardware and running routine daily maintenance.

Many computer support specialist positions involve having to be on call. This means having to be available to go to a job site after scheduled work hours in order to repair or assess a problem.

Education
Depending on the company and the scope of the position, educational requirements will vary. Very basic computer support requires only a knowledge of computers, attention to detail, and a high school diploma. However, these positions are usually garnered through an institution or other job that that the applicant is already a part of.

More commonly, some schooling in computer science is desired. One of the best credentials for a computer support specialist, however, is a CompTIA A+ certification. Acquiring this certification will show that the holder has a basic proficiency in information technology. The certification consists of two examinations. The first tests basic knowledge while the second tests analytical thinking against problem scenarios.

Career Prospects
Computer support specialists are in very high demand and there is no evidence that this will change. As computer systems become more prevalent and more complex, the need for support specialists will rise.

Salary
The median yearly income for a computer support specialist is about $40,000.

Data provided by the Bureau of Labor Statistics

The salary range for Computer Support begins around $26,580 and usually tops out around $70,750, with a mean in the neighborhood of $48,665. This is about 12% higher than the national average for annual salaries.

In order to qualify for most Computer Support positions, you typically need to have a Bachelor's Degree or higher.

Data provided by the Bureau of Labor Statistics

The growth outlook for Computer Support careers is estimated at about 14% while the estimated growth for all career fields over that same span is at about 10.12%. Over the next six years, Computer Support jobs are expected to grow at a 38% higher rate than the national average for annual salaries.