PC Repair Jobs

Just as the personal computer (PC) has increased in ubiquity in the past few decades, so has the industry of computer professionals. An important part of the PC revolution is the increase of qualified professionals to diagnose and repair any problems that impede the end user's productivity. Although much maligned (Nick Burns from "Saturday Night Live"), the PC tech has become as indispensable as a good doctor.

Function

I can see why your laptop isn't working!

A PC repair tech handles all the glitches, upgrades and issues that affect computers and their users. These can range from the simple "I can't print!" to the more complex "My partition map is corrupt." A large part of the job involves taking apart, testing, configuring and replacing computers that have problems, issues and viruses.

Types

Apple Store

There are many types of jobs in the PC repair business. Some involve traveling to different sites (usually homes or offices) to assess and fix the problems on site, while others are part of the IT departments (usually in larger companies). There are also shops that specialize in computer repair, and have a workshop where the techs have the tools to diagnose and fix computers after they put them on the bench.

Benefits

What's inside your computer?

For an entry-level PC repair professional, repairing and troubleshooting computer problems is great way to get paid for on-the-job training. Although there are an infinite number of issues that can cause computer problems, astute techs will learn to recognize patterns in these issues, and quickly be able to diagnose and rectify problems.

Warning

Knowledge of cables and peripherals is mandatory.

There are several issues that PC repair techs have to deal with on a regular basis. One is the belligerent user, who has a tendency to "shoot the messenger." Other problems include being banished to the back room or the basement, isolated from human contact (and often in windowless environments). Plus, the job can be tedious and frustrating if you encounter multiple problems in a row.

Expert Insight

RAM

In many cases, those working in a PC repair position in a company are treated with scorn, disdain and are forced to bear the brunt of outraged users. While it can be a rewarding career, it should be viewed as training for a bigger and better (not to mention more highly paid) position in the IT industry.

Resources

• Dice.com for PC repair jobs