What Is a Computer Operations Specialist ?

Sometimes called support specialists, computer operations specialists are professionals responsible for maintaining the computers of a particular company or business. The U.S. Bureau of Statistics predicts that the demand for specialists will increase by 13 percent through 2016, resulting in the creation of 71,000 new jobs.

Function

Computer operations specialists are the individuals who perform routine maintenance and handle unexpected problems with computers, keyboards, printers, scanners and computer software.

Features

Computer operations specialists install updates and new programs to computers. Specialists also take phone calls and answer emails from employees requesting help with computer problems that arise.

Variations

In some cases, computer operations specialists visit the offices or locations of a business, while in others, specialists perform their work from a centralized location or call center. When working off-site, specialists are sometimes capable of remotely accessing or taking control of an employee's computer.

Education

Some employers prefer computer operations specialists to have a bachelors degree in computer science. Others only require specialists to have a high school diploma and offer on-the-job training.

Compensation

In May 2008, the average annual salary for computer operations specialists was $46,370, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

References

• Computer Operations Specialist
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
• Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2008