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How to become A Computer User Support Specialist

Information Technology

It is very easy to envision an organization or a household spinning into chaos when their computers malfunction. Computer User Support Specialists are the tech-savvy angels in disguise who bring back crucial stability to humankind by routinely assisting in vital computer maintenance and repair. Continue Reading

Skills a career as a Computer User Support Specialist requires: Computer Hardware Computer Literacy Computer Repair Computer Skills Technical Support View more skills
Computer User Support Specialist salary
$54,150
USAUSA
£27,099
UKUK
Explore Career
  • Introduction - Computer User Support Specialist
  • What does a Computer User Support Specialist do?
  • Computer User Support Specialist Work Environment
  • Skills for a Computer User Support Specialist
  • Work Experience for a Computer User Support Specialist
  • Recommended Qualifications for a Computer User Support Specialist
  • Computer User Support Specialist Career Path
  • Computer User Support Specialist Professional Development
  • Learn More
  • Conclusion

Introduction - Computer User Support Specialist

It is very easy to envision an organization or a household spinning into chaos when their computers malfunction. Computer User Support Specialists are the tech-savvy angels in disguise who bring back crucial stability to humankind by routinely assisting in vital computer maintenance and repair.
Similar Job Titles Job Description
  • Computer Specialist
  • Help Desk Technician
  • Information Technology Specialist
  • Technical Support Specialist
  • IT Consultant

 

What does a Computer User Support Specialist do?

What are the typical responsibilities of a Computer User Support Specialist?

A Computer User Support Specialist would typically need to:

  • Provide technical support to computer-using customers in their use and maintenance; manage all computer systems and regularly conduct computer diagnostics to ensure desirable results
  • Investigate user complaints and respond to user inquiries; collaborate with colleagues to resolve IT and computer software issues either remotely or in-person
  • Keep tabs on the network and servers; inform technicians or vendors about significant software/hardware problems or defective products
  • Make or recommend changes and upgrades to improve performance, applying quick fixes if possible
  • Put together workflow analysis, space design, and cost comparison analysis charts to test the feasibility of introducing new equipment and automation into the workspace
  • Inspect the equipment and check the order sheets to ensure correct delivery to users; personalize commercial programs according to the company’s needs
  • Install and test computer hardware, software and peripheral equipment according to design or installation specifications; help users with the equipment set-up process
  • Develop training material for new hires and teach them how to use the company’s computers, networks and systems efficiently
  • Conduct research on emerging hardware and software products and processes to make recommendations for future investments
  • Consult with the IT staff, users and management before coming up with guidelines for new systems or changes
  • Work with other user support specialists on larger projects; supervise IT personnel; contribute to staffing decisions
  • Document operational activities and maintain detailed records of system performance to create periodic, comprehensive reports for the management

Computer User Support Specialist Work Environment

Typically, Computer User Support Specialists work in an environmentally controlled environment, near other employees. You may need to travel at short notice to resolve customer complaints.

Work Schedule

Computer User Support Specialists generally have a full-time 40-hour/week schedule. However, they need to be prepared to be on call 24/7/365 since computer support work is vital for most businesses. Consequently, they may work nights, weekends and holidays.

Employers

Finding a new job might seem challenging. Computer User Support Specialists can boost their job search by asking their network for referrals, contacting companies directly, using job search platforms, going to job fairs, leveraging social media, and inquiring at staffing agencies.

 

Computer User Support Specialists are generally employed by:

  • Computer Systems Design Services
  • Government & Private Educational Services
  • The Information Industry
  • Administrative & Support Services
  • The Wholesale Trade Industry
Unions / Professional Organizations

Professional associations and organisations such as the Technology & Services Industry Association are crucial for a Computer User Support Specialist interested in pursuing professional development or connecting with like-minded professionals in their industry or occupation.

 

Membership in one or more adds value to your resume while bolstering your credentials and qualifications.

Workplace Challenges
  • Ensuring all computer repairs are done thoroughly and accurately despite the repetitive mental and physical nature of most routine jobs as well as strict daily and weekly deadlines
  • Managing high-conflict situations involving clients frustrated with malfunctioning computers
  • Being responsible for decisions that may affect other employees
  • Health hazards occurring from a sedentary job that requires sitting down at a desk for extended periods

 

Work Experience for a Computer User Support Specialist

An ideal academic program should give the student optimum practical experience. If that is not possible, summer placements or internships will give you the necessary work experience in information technology, corporate database or computer support.

 

Contact your university careers service or send speculative applications to local businesses early on in your academic program.

 

Read as much as possible about the profession, and interview or work shadow those working in computer user support fields will prove your commitment to course providers and prospective employers.

Recommended Qualifications for a Computer User Support Specialist

Generally, Prospective Computer User Specialists hold an associate or bachelor’s degree in computer science, desktop support, or information technology.

 

You could gain solid foundational knowledge required for this career by taking classes in computer application, computer programming, computer science and English at the high school level.

Certifications, Licenses and Registration

Globally recognised technical certification in customer service, Microsoft, Linux and Cisco from accredited further education institutions and commercial training centres might enable Computer User Support Specialists to stand out in a competitive job market and increase their chances of advancement.

 

Your geographical location and the prospective employer will determine whether you need an occupational license. Typically, licensure requires an application, processing fees and an examination along with relevant education and experience.

Computer User Support Specialist Career Path

Employees with adequate experience and consistently high-performance levels may take on other IT roles such as a Network and Computer Systems Administrator, Software Developer, or Manager of the computer support services department. You may also be allowed to move into sales.

Job Prospects

Candidates who have experience working with corporate databases and an associate degree in computer science have the best job prospects.

Computer User Support Specialist Professional Development

Continuing professional development (CPD) will help an active Computer User Support Specialist build personal skills and proficiency through work-based learning, a professional activity, formal education, or self-directed learning.

 

You will conduct research, read technical documents and keep up to date on emerging trends in technology to gain a deeper understanding of the software and equipment they support. It also enables you to move into higher positions within the organization and handle more complex issues. 

Learn More

Potential Pros & Cons of Freelancing vs Full-Time Employment

 

Freelancing Computer User Support Specialists who work with home consumers and small organizations have more flexible work schedules and locations.They have full ownership of the business and can select their projects and clients. However, they experience inconsistent work and cash flow, which means more responsibility, effort and risk.

 

On the other hand, a full-time Computer User Support Specialist has company-sponsored health benefits, insurance, and retirement plans. They have job security with a fixed, reliable source of income and guidance from their bosses. Yet, they may experience boredom due to a lack of flexibility, ownership, and variety.

 

When deciding between freelancing or being a full-time employee, consider the pros and cons to see what works best for you.

 

Common Technical Glitches

 

The abnormal functioning of a computer could indicate a problem with either the hardware or the software. The former refers to an issue with the physical parts of the computer. For example, loud noises can mean a problem with the Secure Digital (SD) Card, whereas a deeper noise would mean a faulty Video Clip Card. 

 

Software problems, on the other hand, stem from the operating information used by the computer. These include viruses and other dangers whose prevention may require you to conduct constant checks and promptly deal with the related issues.

Conclusion

As Nicholas Negroponte once famously said, “Computing is not about computers anymore. It is about living.” The impact of Computer User Support Specialists on a world ruled and run by technology cannot be overstated.

Advice from the Wise

You must have a thorough knowledge of network logistics, the computer’s hardware and software, login systems, and email applications.

Did you know?

The first computer ever built was called ENIAC (Electronic Numerical Integrator and Computer). It weighed over 27 tons and occupied 1800 square feet of space.

Introduction - Computer User Support Specialist
What does a Computer User Support Specialist do?

What do Computer User Support Specialists do?

A Computer User Support Specialist would typically need to:

  • Provide technical support to computer-using customers in their use and maintenance; manage all computer systems and regularly conduct computer diagnostics to ensure desirable results
  • Investigate user complaints and respond to user inquiries; collaborate with colleagues to resolve IT and computer software issues either remotely or in-person
  • Keep tabs on the network and servers; inform technicians or vendors about significant software/hardware problems or defective products
  • Make or recommend changes and upgrades to improve performance, applying quick fixes if possible
  • Put together workflow analysis, space design, and cost comparison analysis charts to test the feasibility of introducing new equipment and automation into the workspace
  • Inspect the equipment and check the order sheets to ensure correct delivery to users; personalize commercial programs according to the company’s needs
  • Install and test computer hardware, software and peripheral equipment according to design or installation specifications; help users with the equipment set-up process
  • Develop training material for new hires and teach them how to use the company’s computers, networks and systems efficiently
  • Conduct research on emerging hardware and software products and processes to make recommendations for future investments
  • Consult with the IT staff, users and management before coming up with guidelines for new systems or changes
  • Work with other user support specialists on larger projects; supervise IT personnel; contribute to staffing decisions
  • Document operational activities and maintain detailed records of system performance to create periodic, comprehensive reports for the management
Computer User Support Specialist Work Environment
Work Experience for a Computer User Support Specialist
Recommended Qualifications for a Computer User Support Specialist
Computer User Support Specialist Career Path
Computer User Support Specialist Professional Development
Learn More
Did you know?
Conclusion

Holland Codes, people in this career generally possess the following traits
  • R Realistic
  • I Investigative
  • A Artistic
  • S Social
  • E Enterprising
  • C Conventional
United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals that this career profile addresses
Quality Education Affordable and Clean Energy Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure