Computer Systems Technician
Computer Systems Technician monitors the operations of an organization's computer network, hardware, software, and operating systems. They monitor system performance and troubleshoot issues to provide clients with uninterrupted access and services. Technicians help the IT team in the operational services of software and PC hardware. Individuals also ensure that computer hardware, software, and related technologies are operating properly.
Finally, they should have excellent customer service skills. Technicians should have strong analytical and problem-solving skills. They should be able to operate computer peripherals, such as printers, scanners, and copiers, and analyze and fix them. Technicians must possess the capability to repair PCs/laptops/mobile devices of all makes and models.
Job Description
Technicians need to respond to tickets raised by end users or clients for PCs, mobile devices, printers, and VoIP systems by diagnosing and resolving them. They configure, deploy, and fix desktops and laptops, with operating systems, such as Windows, macOS or Linux, mobile devices, printers, scanners, printers, VoIP systems, and other hardware and software. Technicians help in monitoring and supervising processes of system backup and recovery.
They install basic hardware and software and components of networking to meet the computer needs of the end users. PC System Technicians create training modules and documentation to help their team members in using office computers, hardware, and other equipment.
They coordinate with vendors for both warranty system resolutions and new technology implementations. Technicians comply with their organizations' inventory policies concerning hardware and software. They recommend hardware solutions relating to computers.
Technicians must be able to explain technical issues to clients or team members who belong to a non-technical background effectively. They carry out tests on systems and generate error reports to identify and fix any issues.
Technicians are in-charge of an adequate inventory of replacement and spare parts to troubleshoot hardware issues in quick time. They routinely carry out the inspection of all computer equipment and manage and test all new applications that an organization/clients use.
Technicians interact with vendors and their team members to fix any new application issues promptly. They meet with vendors to discuss issues, such as software glitches and equipment warranties.
They work in partnership with other teams within the organization, provide them support in all matters relating to hardware and software, perform cable and network installations, and maintain proper documentation regarding maintenance and fixes of all hardware.
Moreover, technicians carry out preventive maintenance periodically on computer systems and hardware devices.
Future for Computer Systems Technicians
Job opportunities for computer support specialists are expected to grow eleven percent during the period 2016-2026, more than the average for all occupations, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Opportunities for support services will remain high, as companies will continuously need to upgrade their hardware and software, it adds.
Educational Qualifications and Other Requirements
Although an associate degree in computer science or engineering is required for Computer Systems Technicians, candidates having a bachelor’s degree in the relevant disciplines will have better chances of advancing their careers much faster.
They should possess one of the certifications like the Microsoft Certified Solution Associate (MCSA) or Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA).
They should be well-versed with hardware and software of PCs, systems, and local area networks (LANs). If they have a certification in A+ from CompTIA, it will be an added advantage.
Salary
The average salary of a Systems Technician(Computer) is $41,720 per year in the United States, according to Payscale. Those who freelance earn around $19.83 per hour.
How Field Engineer Helps
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