Computer Service Technicians ensure that both the hardware and software equipment of an enterprise are well-secured so that they function uninterruptedly. Known also as PC technicians, they have experience with a variety of tools to effectively troubleshoot problems of computer systems.
Computer service technicians are either employed in large organizations or on-site at client locations or service repair firms. The individual repairs and maintains computers. Technicians also install, support, and repair computer hardware, in addition to addressing networking, software or Internet issues. Typically, they replace or reinstall computer equipment, instead of repairing them because this solution is more cost-efficient. Technicians also work on help desk as technical support specialists. Importantly they should have excellent communication and analytical skills.
Computer Service Technician’s Job Description
Computer Service Technicians are responsible for resolving problems such as hard drive crashes, obsolete hardware, infected files, spyware, malware, viruses, and otherwise compromised operating systems. Since service technicians have to handle clients’ problems, who sometimes may not be tech-savvy, they should demonstrate the ability to stay calm in trying situations.
PC technicians need to stay abreast of the latest trends in the information technology arena. Along with the ability to troubleshoot issues, they should possess superior interpersonal skills as they will interact with many customers. It would be beneficial to specialize in PCs, servers or laptops and ideally to specialize in more than one computer hardware types.
Computer Technicians remove viruses and other harmful programs, such as adware, malware, spyware, etc., from computers in order to secure them. For home PCs, they use free antivirus software, including avast!, and AVG Free Antivirus, among others, but for enterprise users, they use commercial antivirus software of Kaspersky or McAfee.
Technicians also repair a motherboard by checking monitors, graphics hardware, battery, RAM, and internal hardware. If a motherboard is not working well, it could be because the keyboard or mouse is not working properly, making the computer start in BIOS mode.it can stop functioning even if a cable is disconnected. Sometimes, they reformat the hard drives to set them right. Before they go about repairing a motherboard, technicians diagnose the problem by identifying the symptoms.
It is recommended that Computer Service Technicians have with them several tools, such as range of screwdrivers and torx drivers, USB keyboard and mouse, network cable testers, ADSL filters, portable labelers, hard disk to USB adapters, cable ties, 1TB USB hard disk drive, variety of blank DVDs and CDs, pre-made OS DVDs, Cage nuts and screws, USB DVD RW drives, cans of compressed air, crimping tools, tone, and probe kits, punch down tools, RJ45 connectors, spools of network cable, BT extension cables, network cables of varying lengths, wireless VDSL routers, RJ11 to RJ45 cables, and RJ11 cables.
Technicians must have the ability to upgrade customer’s system software and hardware readily and to test computer devices to ensure they are in fit condition. They also determine prices for new installations and carry out the servicing of all on-site computer equipment.
These technicians develop and assemble servers and PCs or install LANs or other equipment. They promptly respond to requests from employees or customers by addressing their issues whenever they arise. It is essential that technicians practice efficient time management. Finally, they undertake help desk support responsibilities.
Additionally, technician’s job entails having knowledge of the latest operating system versions of Windows and macOS. Technicians should also have experience in configuring servers, PCs, laptops, and other computer hardware.
It would be advisable for technicians to learn a programming language. Although it would be advantageous if they learn HTML or CSS, which are for web pages, it is not adequate. If technicians learn a language, they will understand how programming and coding work so that they can fix websites or mobile apps. It will also help them change their jobs and let them become database administrators or software developers, in case they find these roles more interesting.
Lastly, technicians also provide remote computer support to workstations or PCs via the Internet by using the remote-controlled software. This allows them to check and fix issues, perform repairs and maintaining the systems. They do this by staying put in their workstations, and, at times, users may not even have to reboot their systems. Here, clients need to purchase initial software only. Technicians, meanwhile, troubleshoot the issues online, making it a cost-effective solution for clients. Remote support is gaining in popularity, as it saves time for users.
Finally, technicians also prepare cost estimates for new installations
Educational Qualifications and Certifications for Computer Service Technicians
Although a two-year associate degree in electronics or computer sciences is considered adequate with A+ certification from the CompTIA (Computing Technology Industry Association), some companies prefer candidates with a bachelor’s degree in computer sciences or engineering. A degree is recommended because the BLS (US Bureau of Labor Statistics) points out that job-seekers armed with proper degrees and certifications stand higher chances of landing better computer service technician jobs.
The ETA (Electronic Technicians Association) offers close to 50 specialty certifications. Applicants, however, need to pass the CETA (Associate Electronics Technician) to pursue these courses. Furthermore, Computer Service Technicians need to broaden their skill-set by learning new technologies conversant with the evolution of computing technology in software as well as hardware.
The other top certifications for PC Service Technicians are Server +, ACMT from Apple and Cisco’s CCT, Microsoft’s MCTS, and so on.
Even though that the BLS estimates a two percent rise in growth in jobs for Computer Service Technicians in the period 2014-2024, the requirement for them will continue to grow as the use of computers increases in the next few decades, according to study.com.
How much do Computer Service Technicians earn?
Sokanu.com states that the Computer Service Technician’s Salary was $46, 843 per year on an average in the US in its latest study.
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