Computer service technicians install, maintain and repair computer equipment. This includes laptop computers and peripheral equipment such as printers and scanners in small offices to complex equipment in large banking, commercial or government operations. The potential of computer tech jobs are high because of the increasing use of the Internet and data communication and they are getting involved in planning and executive decisions rather than just as entry level support.
What are areas of specialization in computer tech careers?
Service technicians specialize in computer repair jobs and repair all types of computers from older models to the latest and most powerful machines. Some specialize in servicing electronic equipment used in stores and other establishments such as cash registers, ATM machines, telefax machines, photocopiers, etc...Other computer technicians specialize in networking and install local area networks (LAN) in private homes, internet stations and private and government offices, or they may also work in computer help desks troubleshooting computer problems online or thru the phone. Still others work on specialized computer equipment used in modern railways, in modern factories and assembly plants, air traffic control systems and surveillance equipment. Computer technicians also function as advisers to office workers on how to use computer equipment properly and safely.
What are the work environment and hours of computer tech jobs like?
Service technicians usually work during normal office hours with overtime work sometimes required. Sometimes computer technicians do house calls to carry out installations, maintenance or repairs, so they could be traveling a little. The work is almost always indoors and could involve taking apart a machine in a confined area. Employers usually provide uniforms or overalls.
What is the salary range for computer tech jobs?
The salary for computer technicians hired for entry level jobs is around $23,000 per year. After a couple of years of experience, they could earn around $43,000 per year. The highest paid technicians who are highly experienced and have learned additional specialist skills could earn as much as $60,000 a year.
What industries employ the largest number of computer tech jobs?
The five industries where computer tech jobs can be mostly found are in computer systems design and related services, professional and commercial equipment and supplies merchant wholesaler, department stores, electronic and precision equipment repair and maintenance and electronic and appliance stores. Aside from these five largest employers, other types of companies who hire computer technicians are banks, insurance companies and other financial businesses, health services, transport operators, electric, gas and water companies, educational institutions, sellers of computer equipment who also offer support services and small and medium sized contractors. Technicians who have gained enough experience and want to start their own business could become freelance technicians and be classified as self-employed.
What skills and personal qualities should computer service technicians have?
First of all, for computer tech jobs you need to have good understanding of computer software and hardware. This job requires some patience and persistence. Computer technicians must be good at working with their hands, work responsibly and be able to work with minimum supervision. Computer technicians should also have good communication and customer service skills.
What usually interests computer technicians that keep them at this type of job?
Computer technicians are usually people who are very much interested in computer technology and that is usually the reason why they chose this job in the first place. Computer technicians are usually up to date with all things concerning computers.
What problems could be encountered in computer tech jobs?
Sometimes computer technicians encounter belligerent users who don't have much knowledge about computers and in the first sign of trouble with their computer, blame the computer technician, when actually the problem lies with a hardware component that needs to be replaced. Another problem is having to work in very confined spaces where workers will have to do a lot of bending and moving in a limited space. Sometimes the job can be tedious and time consuming and can get frustrating, especially when you encounter multiple problems at the same time. .
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