National
| Median wages (2008) |
$20.89 hourly, $43,450 annual |
| Employment (2006) |
552,000 employees |
| Projected growth (2006-2016) |
Average (7% to 13%)
|
| Projected need (2006-2016) |
242,000 additional employees |
15-1041.00 - Computer Support Specialists
Provide technical assistance to computer system users. Answer questions or resolve computer problems for clients in person, via telephone or from remote location. May provide assistance concerning the use of computer hardware and software, including printing, installation, word processing, electronic mail, and operating systems.
Sample of reported job titles:
Information Technology Specialist (IT Specialist), Support Specialist, Computer Technician, Computer Support Specialist, Help Desk Analyst, Technical Support Specialist, Network Support Specialist, Electronic Data Processing Auditor (EDP Auditor), Network Technician, Computer Specialist
Tasks
- Oversee the daily performance of computer systems.
- Answer user inquiries regarding computer software or hardware operation to resolve problems.
- Enter commands and observe system functioning to verify correct operations and detect errors.
- Set up equipment for employee use, performing or ensuring proper installation of cables, operating systems, or appropriate software.
- Install and perform minor repairs to hardware, software, or peripheral equipment, following design or installation specifications.
- Maintain records of daily data communication transactions, problems and remedial actions taken, or installation activities.
- Read technical manuals, confer with users, or conduct computer diagnostics to investigate and resolve problems or to provide technical assistance and support.
- Refer major hardware or software problems or defective products to vendors or technicians for service.
- Develop training materials and procedures, or train users in the proper use of hardware or software.
- Confer with staff, users, and management to establish requirements for new systems or modifications.
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Tools & Technology
Tools used in this occupation:
| Computer tool kits |
| Power meters |
| Punches or nail sets or drifts — Punchdown tools |
| Screwdrivers |
| Wire lug crimping tool — Wire crimpers |
Technology used in this occupation:
| Backup or archival software — Backup and archival software; Disaster recovery software; Microsoft Volume Shadow Copy Service; Symantec LiveState |
| Configuration management software — Automated installation software; Deployment software; Patch management software |
| Data base user interface and query software — Database software; IPro software; Lucid IQ; Software asset management SAM software |
| Desktop communications software — CrossTec NetOp Remote Control; Remote control software; Stac Software ReachOut; Symantec pcAnywhere |
| Internet directory services software — Active directory software; Domain name system DNS software; Network directory services software |
