PC Technician
A PC technician often referred to as a computer technician or PC repair technician is responsible for identifying, troubleshooting and resolving computer issues. They are experienced and knowledgeable professionals with hands-on experience with different tools of repair and maintaining computer hardware, software and network/Internet issues.
The professionals deal with creating, assembling, installing and maintaining computer systems. The primary role is to address the hardware and software issues. They look into various subjects such as installing new power supplies, upgrading firmware and repairing motherboards in the hardware section, but for the software, they deal with OS troubleshooting/installation, software/application installation, virus scanning/firewall integration and more aspects.
The PC Technician will test the system performance by using software diagnostic packages. The professionals have to boot up systems from external drivers, operating systems, and diagnostic suites. They have to examine and evaluate the software test logs to locate the failed components. The technicians use electronic troubleshooting knowledge to debug failed systems. They use hand tools to disassemble, repair, and reassemble the computer and its components.
The technician will assist in maintaining a record of all monitors, keyboards, hard drives, modems and other peripheral equipment. The professionals are responsible for logging, reporting, and statistically monitoring PC performance. It is the PC Technician who examines and customizes configurations based on various platforms and operating systems. They have document occurrences of hardware failure, repair, installation, and removal.
Job Description
They are usually part of the IT departments or IT service companies. They provide services such as installation, maintenance and support related to internal and external users. It is important to have strong computer knowledge as that will ease out the work responsibilities.
The Computer Technician should have working technical knowledge of current network protocols, operating systems, and standards. They should be able to handle any issues related to Windows, Microsoft office, Ethernet cabling, basic multimedia systems and email applications. They should have the ability to operate tools, components and peripheral accessories. The professionals should be able to read and understand technical manuals, procedural documentation, and OEM guides.
The technician role is to perform backup and recovery duties. They have to maintain and update various customer databases. They have to identify and resolve hardware and software problems for customers. The professionals should also offer technical support and assistance to internal customers. The technician has to ensure efficient system operations and follow the internal processes. There are certain duties that play a major role in the PC technician’s job profile. These are of top priority and the professionals must be able to perform them. Here are some of the tasks:
Installation
A PC technician must take care of all the computers and laptops that run on a company network. The professional will first test the operating system along with any application software that the user needs. They should even look into installing servers, networking components and linking of other peripheral equipment. It is the responsibility of the PC Technician to uninstall old programs and configure the computer networks. The professional should install new equipment, anti-virus programs and other tools used by the organization.
Update
Whenever a new software upgrade comes, it is the job of these professionals to update the company systems. They should make sure that all the computers are working on the same software. The upgrade must be done as quickly as possible to avoid any further issues in work management. They should also cater to individual needs of the employees who are facing some trouble with the hard drive capacity or any other technical issues. The professional should evaluate and provide suggestions for hardware and software standardization. They have to work in coordination with the hardware and software vendors to ensure that the new equipment is all set and ready to operate as per the schedule. It is the PC Technician’s responsibility to maintain an inventory for upgrades and software licensing.
Troubleshooting
The professionals should be able to resolve any hardware or software problem. Usage of diagnostic tools to recognize the issue is the best way to find a solution. They must also help the employees to recover lost date, diagnose software issues and reinstalling programs. The PC Support Technician has to rectify malware and virus issues within personal workstations and the company’s network. They have to repair and maintain the server, personal computers, and other technology equipment. The professionals have to work in coordination with the other teams to resolve both complex and routine computer issues.
Educational Background
The candidate must have a bachelor’s degree in computer science, computer engineering, Information Technology or any related field. Having an associate degree in PC maintenance, computer systems technology, and electronic engineering technology can come in handy. The associate degree courses will give an in-depth understanding of electronics and computing. These courses can provide the candidate with hands-on application of in-class theory.
Certification
The individuals must clear the CompTIA A+ Essentials and CompTIA A+ Practical Application exams to get a CompTIA A+ certification. They can also pursue other coursework related to PC repair.
Salary
According to Sokanu.com, the hourly wages of a PC technician is $23.74. The salary usually starts at $41.15 and can up to $39.50. The professional earn about $ 49,390 annually and they begin somewhere at $29,440. As per Paysa, a freelance PC technician earns about $63,195. It ranges from $51,611 at the 25th percentile to $72,588 at the 75th percentile. The top professionals earn more than $84,629. The Indeed salary estimate states that on average the PC Technician earns about $19.01 per hour in the United States.
PC Technician Jobs
According to BLS, PC technician jobs are expected to go up by 12 percent from 2014 to 2024. With the increase in Job hirings, the job prospects look promising for the aspirants in the coming years. As per sokanu, PC Technicians should have good employment opportunities for the foreseeable future. With computers becoming an eternal part of the technology world, the demand for skilled PC Technicians is ever-increasing. Keeping in mind, how critical computers are organizations are in search of professionals who can diagnose and repair computer problems on their own. This way the demand for computer repair technicians is also expected to remain healthy.
Field Engineer is a One-Stop Platform
Want to get placed as a freelance PC technician in the On Demand Freelance Marketplace, then come to Fieldengineer.com. It is a platform that gives many opportunities to showcase your skills to businesses. Signup Now!
