- Computer security specialists install security software, monitor for viruses or other problems and educate people about Internet security. However, if security is not your interest, you may want to work as a computer support specialist. Computer support specialists provide advice and assistance to people.
- Although technicians fall into the computer support specialists' category, they have additional duties. Help desk technicians diagnose problems and repair, install and clean computer software and hardware. They train people on how to use computer products and may write instructions for their co-workers. Help desk technicians also respond to telephone calls and email requests for assistance.
- If you know you want to work in this field, there are some skills you need. For instance, you need to be a problem-solver and have verbal and written communication skills. Remember, your co-workers or other people will call you when they really need you. So you'll have to know what to do and how to communicate that information.
- Educational requirements depend on what company you work for. In most cases, a bachelor's degree is required. However, associate degrees in computers or related work may be sufficient. In some cases, certificates or work experience can substitute for a degree.
- The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that computer information careers will grow as more American use the computers for work or entertainment. According to the BLS, salaries in these careers range from $25,000 to $68,000 per year.
