What Is an IT Technician?
Information technology (IT) technicians maintain computer systems, provide technical support, and teach their clients the basic skills they need to operate newly installed programs. Aspiring technicians can find certificate and degree programs in information technology and acquire industry-recognized certifications.
| Required Education | Associate's or bachelor's degree or certificate |
| Certification | Voluntary; options include A+ certification, Linux+ certification, Microsoft certified IT professional certification, Cisco certified network associate certification, International information systems security certification consortium certification |
| Projected Job Growth (2019-2029)* | 8% for all computer support specialists |
| Average Salary (2019)* | $27.19 per hour for all computer user support specialists |
Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
What Does an IT Technician Do?
If you're interested in this career, you might be wondering exactly what do it techs do? The IT technician job description details an IT tech as a person who diagnoses computer problems, monitors computer processing systems, installs software, and performs tests on computer equipment and programs. Technicians may also set up computer equipment, schedule maintenance, and teach clients to use programs. Other job duties can include minor repairs and computer parts ordering. IT Techs must be able to listen to user's computer problems and ask probing questions that investigate the issue. They also must be able to provide clear directions for users to follow to help solve their issues. IT Techs need an abundance of patience and good communication skills to carry out their roles as users can often be frustrated or lack the technical skills to solve their IT issues.
Required Skills
IT job requirements include strong knowledge of computers and how they operate, which includes having a broad understanding of hardware and software, operating systems, and basic computer programming. Familiarity with electronic equipment, Internet applications, and security may also be required. Technicians may also need good communication skills because this position requires frequent interaction with clients.
Some essential skills for an IT Tech are:
- Good oral communication
- Attention to detail
- Good personal skills
- Patience
- Empathy
- Ability to give clear and concise directions to users
- Teamwork
- Knowledge of various technology types
Work Environment
IT Techs work in many different environments including businesses unrelated to technology itself. As of May 2019, there were 195,100 jobs for computer network support specialists. Most worked in computer systems design, but some also worked in telecommunications or the financial industry. IT techs also work help desks at various companies, in data processing, educational institutions, software publishers, and insurance companies.
Often times IT Techs can work remotely, helping users online or through voice calls. However, some companies may keep IT techs on-site to help with physical tasks with computer hardware.
How to Become an IT Tech
The process of how to become an IT technician includes formal education, work experience, and certification. Many employers prefer to hire an IT technician who has some level of formal training. Future IT technicians can find certificate, associate, and bachelor's degree programs in computer science, information technology, or computer information systems. Coursework in these programs may cover computer security, hardware configuration, and technical support. Students can also learn about database programming, operating systems, and software installation.
To become an IT Tech, the following steps are needed:
- Finish your education from an IT technician school
- Gain experience in the workforce through internships or employment
- Earn certifications to specialize and demonstrate your skills
- Network with other IT professionals to make connections
- Find employment that is a match for your personality and skills
What to Expect from an IT Tech School
It Tech schools will provide the coursework needed to gain knowledge about different aspects of IT technology. Schools include courses on systems, programming, data management, hardware, and software. There are two main options for IT tech schools, earning an associate's degree or a bachelor's degree.
Associate's Degree
An associate's degree is a great way to enter the field as an IT tech because it can take less than two years to complete. An associate's degree will help give you the information needed to get started in the field and provide validation of your technology skills to employers. After completing your core courses, you'll focus on different aspects of IT technology including cybersecurity, networking, programming, building web pages, and more.
Bachelor's Degree
A bachelor's degree in information technology can take up to four years and may offer greater coursework and demonstrate more knowledge of technology for employers. Courses that might be included in a bachelor's program include business management, business strategy, technology innovation, and other courses that can improve leadership and critical thinking skills. It techs with a bachelor's degree are also able to increase their salary, potentially offsetting the additional costs of a four-year program.
Certification
While not all companies require IT technicians to be certified, taking the extra step to earn a certification can show employers that technicians have the required skills and training to fulfill job requirements. Common certifications for IT technicians include A+ and Linux+ certifications offered by CompTIA. IT technicians can also pursue Microsoft Certified IT Professional and Cisco Certified Network Associate credentials. The International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium offers a variety of certifications for IT professionals pursuing information security positions. The certification process may include passing an exam and completing continuing education courses to maintain or renew credentials.
Career Outlook and Salary Information
According to the most recent information provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), computer support specialists could see employment growth of 8% between 2019 and 2029 (www.bls.gov). Upgrades to existing systems should play a major part in this employment growth. In May 2019, the BLS reported that computer user support specialists earned an average wage of $27.19 per hour. The median IT technician salary as of May 2019 was $52,270.
An information technology technician is a computer support person who can work for various companies. They should have an associate's degree, bachelor's degree, or certificate in a computer field. IT technicians may look into obtaining certifications to promote job potentiality.
