What is an IT Assistant?
An information technology assistant provides essential technical support to companies across a wide array of fields. IT assistants are certified in one or more areas in technology and often hold a bachelor’s degree. Increasing demand for IT assistants has provided ample room for growth within the discipline.
Field Engineer is a leading source in providing vetted professionals within a variety of engineering services, including IT assistants, to companies around the globe. We vet all our engineers according to qualifications and experience, and algorithmically match the best person for the job.
What Does an IT Assistant Do?
An Information technology assistant (IT assistant) helps to install, operate, and maintain computer networks and communication systems. They are certified professionals who typically hold a bachelor’s degree in the subject. While their primary role is to provide solutions to technical problems for different types of companies, there are other tasks they may be asked to complete.
Some ways an IT assistant may be asked to help could include:
- Writing reports
- Tracking inventory
- Training staff on new technologies
- Negotiating contracts with vendors
- Developing contingency plans in case of network failure
Through their work, IT assistants help to ensure the safe and efficient running of a business’s IT system and provide daily user assistance.
How to Become an IT Assistant
In order to become an IT assistant, applicants are usually required to obtain a bachelor’s or associate’s degree in IT, or a related field. These may include subjects such as computer science, electronics, software, information systems, or telecommunications.
Because IT assistants work closely with people on troubleshooting technical issues, it is essential they have good communication, problem-solving and interpersonal skills. IT assistants with Field Engineer also have post-qualification experience in help desk services. Additional IT certifications include: CompTIA, Cisco, Microsoft, and W3Schools.
As an essential service for businesses and organizations, there is strong job security for IT assistants. Highly qualified individuals within this field are always in demand.
IT Assistant Roles and Responsibilities
IT assistants use their diverse skills to perform many daily duties. They provide administrative support such as: answering and transferring calls, proofreading, data entry, and operating essential office machinery (printers, copiers, etc.). They also assist in solving customer problems in a professional manner.
When they are not helping with technical issues, IT assistants will prepare and maintain company documents around policies and procedures. They also back up and control access to valuable data and install new hardware or software, ensuring that a company’s data storage and communication are up to date.
Performing regular maintenance tasks is another important aspect of an IT assistant’s responsibilities. They often troubleshoot issues with hardware and software. Some even specialize in performing maintenance on specific hardware. IT assistants are also able to inventory computer essentials in addition to making repairs.
Providing quality user assistance is at the center of an IT assistant’s role. Businesses use a variety of specialized systems, and the IT assistant is responsible for training and supporting staff in their use of these systems.
IT Assistant Salary
According to ZipRecruiter, the national average salary for an IT assistant is $39,277. The top earners in this field make up to $66,000 per year. Depending on the level of education and years of experience, this data shows that there is room for growth for individuals looking to get into this specialty. As an entry-level role, IT assistants can also aspire to senior roles such as IT technician or network administrator.
With the increasing demand for IT assistants, it has been predicted that there will be a conservative 10% growth rate in jobs. Forbes has even predicted a 22% growth in IT jobs between 2020 and 2030 based on information from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Field Engineer, A Global Freelance Marketplace
If you are an organization looking for an IT assistant, Field Engineer can get you plugged in with the right people. When you sign up with us, you have automatic access to thousands of vetted professionals for a variety of engineering services.
