Pathway: Tech Support
Job: Computer Help-Desk Technician

Job Description

Computer help-desk technicians are computer support specialists. They troubleshoot to interpret problems and provide technical support for hardware, software, and systems. They answer phone calls, analyze problems using automated diagnostic programs, and resolve recurrent difficulties.

Necessary Education

Varies – Bachelor’s Degree, Associate’s Degree, or college-level courses; certification; practical experience

Helpful High School Courses

English, Business courses, Computer Applications

Working Conditions

• Usually work in well lit comfortable offices or computer laboratories
  
• Typically work about 40 hours a week, which may include evenings and weekends
  
• May need to work overtime, when necessary
  
• Susceptible to eyestrain, back discomfort, and hand and wrist problems
  

Salary Range

• 2003, Delaware average annual salary, $51,800
• 2003, Delaware average hourly wage, $24.90
  

• Most computer support specialists start out at the help desk
  
• Those who are knowledgeable about the latest technologies and are able to apply them to meet the needs of the organization will have the best opportunities
  
• Job promotions usually depend more on performance than on formal education
  
• Some advance to applications developers – designing products rather than assisting users
  
• Those at hardware and software companies often enjoy quick advancement

Personal Qualities and Interests

     You:

• Have strong problem-solving and analytical skills
  
• Communicate effectively on paper, via e-mail, or in person
  
• Are willing to keep your skills current and acquire new ones
  
• Have good interpersonal skills
  

Did you know?

• Job growth is expected to increase at a very fast rate
  
• Employers range from start-up companies to established industry leaders
  

Additional Information

• Occupational Outlook Handbook: http://www.bls.gov/oco
• Association of Computer Support Specialists: http://www.acss.org

  
  

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