Network Support Job Description
When a computer user experiences a malfunction, a computer user contacts an expert for help. Employees in network support are hired to help others with computer problems. These computer experts have solid communication and problem-solving skills. A career in network support can also be known under the job title of a computer support specialist.
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Responsibilities
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According to the Occupational Information Network, network support specialists offer technical assistance to computer users. These workers answer inquiries or troubleshoot computer problems for a client in-person, on the phone or online. Topics that network support specialists may assist customers with are computer hardware, computer software, printing, program installation, word processing, email and operating systems.
Environment and Hours
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According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, network support specialists work in well-lit and comfortable offices or computer labs. Most network support specialists work a typical 40 hour work week. Some may telecommute and provide technical support from home.
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Education and Training
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According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, many employers seek job candidates with a bachelor’s degree in computer engineering, computer science or information systems; however, a computer-related associate degree or professional certification may also be adequate. Some employers hire applicants with a college degree in any type of field, as long as the job candidate has technical skills. For some job openings, computer experience and certifications can be substituted for education.
Most network support specialists undergo on-the-job training upon hire. This training can last from a week to a year; however, the common length is approximately 3 months. Network support specialists continue receiving training throughout their careers due to rapid advances in industry technology.
Earnings
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According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, network support specialists earned a national mean hourly wage of $22.77 and a national mean annual wage of $47,360 in May 2009. The industries that employed the highest number of network support specialists were computer systems design and related services with a mean annual wage of $47,850; elementary and secondary schools, $43,310; management of companies and enterprises, $49,570; and professional and commercial equipment and supplies merchant wholesalers, $52,470.
Outlook
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According to the National Employment Matrix from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities for network support specialists are expected to increase at a rate of 14 percent through 2018.
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References
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Computer Support Specialists
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2009: Computer Support Specialists
- Occupational Information Network: Computer Support Specialists
- College Board: Computer Support Specialist (Major)
- College Board: Computer Support Specialists (Career)
Resources
- Photo Credit computer image by peter Hires Images from Fotolia.com
