Who Are Computer Technicians?
A computer technician is a person who runs diagnostic programs on computers to identify problems and fix them.
The technician works on most of issues to do with computer problems. They may be required to help in setting up computers in an organization, or provide technical advice to the management on the computer specifications that an organization requires.For most organizations, computer technician job description would require one to have more than just knowledge on computer hardware. This is because they are entrusted with tasks that might have to do with software applications that are involved in the diagnosis and fixing of computer problems.
Where Do Computer Technicians Work?
Due to the increasingly adoption of computer technologies in many companies today, there are innumerable places where a computer technician can get employment.Any organization that has taken to the trend of using computers and computer applications qualifies as a potential employer for computer technicians. The most common starting point for computer technicians is doing freelance work as computer technicians.
However, if you are looking to work in an organization that is more specialized in dealing with computers and computer applications you can find a job in places like the following:
- Information Technology firms
- Freelance computer repair and maintenance firms
- Call centers and organizations that intensively use computers
- Repair of computers that are damaged or those that malfunction
- Installation of computer applications – this might involve troubleshooting and knowledge on software and hardware compatibility
- Troubleshooting for computer errors and their origins in an organization’s system
- Checking and fixing computer connections in an organization
- Configuration and installation of computer equipment by use of pre-built software images
- Allocation and reallocation of computer peripherals and desktop computers
- Maintaining inventory records of computer related equipment and desktop computers
- Providing back up to the company’s Help Desk and Lab staff whenever they have problems with their computer set up and configuration
- Cleaning computer equipment and devices
- Advising and coordinating the disposal of computer equipment
- Liaising with network creation staff in setting up computer hardware and other network devices
Duties and Responsibilities of a Computer Technician
Whereas these may be the standard tasks of a computer technician, a few employers might want to charge you with extra tasks especially if you are working with them on a full time basis.Academic Qualifications
The specifics of a computer technician job description on a job ad will specify the kind of qualifications an organization is looking for in the person they hire. However, if you would like to become a computer technician, here are some ways to do so:- A degree in computer science, computer technology or information systems: – Some employers prefer this although it is not necessarily a requirement to become a computer technician.
- CompTIA certification: – Computing Technology Industry Association offers some tests after which certificates are awarded. Certification is a good demonstration that you have the skills of a computer technician.
- Microsoft Certification: – This certification is universally accepted and respected because the training touches most areas of Microsoft applications and operating systems.
Other Competencies, Skills and Attributes Required of a Computer Technician
- Extensive working knowledge on computer software and hardware
- Post secondary training related to computers and computer systems
- Customer service skills
- Teamwork skills
- Versatility when dealing with computers and computer related devices
- General knowledge on electric and electronic devices
Salary Estimates For Computer Technicians
According to the estimations of the Bureau of Labor Statistics, computer technicians and similar technicians earn an average hourly rate of $18.95, which translates to $39,420 every year.Earners in the lowest 10th percentile earn about $10.87 per hour ($22,620 per year)
Those earning in the lowest 25th percentile earn about $13.99 every hour, translating to $29,100 per year
The statistics also show that not all organizations pay uniformly, while dealing with scientific research services paying the highest amount of wage to computer technicians. Technicians here earn an average of $27.90 per hour (about $58,030 per year)`
The Bureau of Labor Statistics also notes that the earnings are not uniform across all the states, with some leading in the pay including District of Columbia, Connecticut, Maryland, Minnesota and New Mexico.