Computer Technician Facts
Office personnel are always glad to see the computer technician, especially when their work has come to a literal gridlock because of a computer glitch. As a trained computer technician, you can enjoy earning an above-average income while working primarily day shifts. Computer technicians provide a much needed service to keep businesses in operation.
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About Computer Technicians
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As a computer technician, you will basically be performing services for clients or agencies that are having problems with one or more computers. Some computer technicians perform services in the field, personally traveling to the clients and doing on-site repairs, configurations and troubleshooting. Other computer technicians may be stationary, providing distance technical support from either a call center or a company help desk. The goal is to provide maintenance for the clients and to get their computers operating as quickly as possible.
Duties
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Depending on your level of training and expertise, daily job duties may vary. In addition to accurately determining computer problems, some computer technicians are required to track software license and inventory. Some employers may also require computer technicians to set up computers for employees, as well as set up office printers, telephones and scanners. There is also a certain amount of administrative work involved in a computer technician's job, including filling out paperwork of completed jobs and documenting results of the service call.
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Requirements
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Education requirements for computer technicians vary from one employer to another. Most employers prefer at least some college in the computer science and information technology (IT) field. Some employers may require an associate's degree or a bachelor's degree. Prior IT support experience is also preferred, particularly if a candidate does not hold a formal degree. Most all employers prefer up-to-date certifications either in A+ or Net+ computer proficiencies. Computer technicians must be organized with good analytical skills and be proficient in the area of troubleshooting where computer problems are concerned.
Income Potential
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Average salaries for computer technicians can vary depending on several factors, including geographic location. According to an October 2009 survey by Payscale.com, the average starting salary for a first-year computer technician ranges from $26,081 a year to $40,544. After at least 1 year of experience, computer technicians can average between $30,329 and $41,820 a year. After being on the job for 5 years, you can expect to earn an average of between $34,956 and $49,890 a year working as a computer technician. With a decade of experience, computer technicians are reporting annual incomes between $38,326 and $55,573 annually.
Employers and Pay
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The type of employer can make some difference in your annual income, although not a lot. Computer technicians working for state or local government agencies are earning an average income of at least $48,004 a year, while those working for federal government agencies are reporting annual earnings up to $51,731 a year. Computer technicians employed with private firms report earning an average annual income up to $51,754 a year. Those computer technicians that are self-employed are earning the most at an average up to $54,335 annually.
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