Computer Maintenance Technician: Job Description and Requirements
Computer maintenance technicians assist individuals and organizations with systems operation, computer errors and other technical support issues. Prospective candidates may pursue one of a number of educational routes, including enrolling in a certificate or associate's or bachelor's degree program.
Job Description for Computer Maintenance Technicians
Computer maintenance technicians oversee daily computer performance, provide technical support and install new software for computer users. Daily duties may include fielding inquiries, running diagnostic tests to resolve issues and installing updates to existing software. Additionally, technicians may be responsible for setting up new equipment, performing minor repair work and keeping records of service. Technicians may also create manuals and train others on hardware and software.
Career Information
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), job opportunities for computer support specialists were estimated to increase by 14% between 2008-2018 (www.bls.gov). Growth was expected to be highest in the systems, software and consulting industries. Median wages for technicians were $47,360 in May 2009. Career paths include office or department manager, computer programmer, software engineer, network specialist or Web designer.
Requirements for Computer Maintenance Technicians
Education
Education requirements for computer maintenance technicians vary substantially based on employer and job position. Some employers may only require work experience coupled with an industry certificate or certification. Certificate programs require the completion of a designated group of courses, such as networking, electronics, operation systems and troubleshooting. These programs may take up to two years to complete and prepare students for entry-level positions as technicians. Students may also use courses to prep for industry certification.
Certifications
The Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) designates an A+ certification to technicians who successfully complete two exams based on technical understanding and practical application (www.comptia.org). The A+ certification qualifies technicians as having fundamental, functional knowledge of networking, maintenance, security and troubleshooting. CompTIA also offers advanced certifications in these areas. Additional vendor-sponsored certifications may give applicants a further edge.
Higher Education
According to the BLS, some employers may favor applicants with a computer related associate's or bachelor's degree. Courses in software architecture and operating systems coupled with project management classes may help prepare students with the necessary technical and interpersonal skills for the workplace. Once hired, most new employees receive supplemental on-the-job training. Employees looking for promotion may consider advanced systems certification programs, continuing education or enrollment in a M.S. program.
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9 Popular Schools
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Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Must be a high school graduate or have completed GED
School locations:
- Online Learning
- California (3 campuses)
- Colorado (2)
- Michigan (2)
Online and Classroom-Based Programs
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School locations:
- Online Learning
- Arizona (3 campuses)
- California (16)
- Colorado (3)
- Florida (6)
- Georgia (4)
- Illinois (8)
- Indiana (2)
- Kentucky (1)
- Maryland (1)
- Michigan (1)
- Minnesota (1)
- Missouri (2)
- North Carolina (2)
- New Jersey (3)
- Nevada (1)
- New York (2)
- Ohio (4)
- Oklahoma (1)
- Oregon (1)
- Pennsylvania (5)
- Tennessee (2)
- Texas (7)
- Utah (1)
- Virginia (3)
- Washington (3)
- Wisconsin (2)
Online and Classroom-Based Programs
-
Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Must be a high school graduate or have completed GED
School locations:
- California (1 campus)
- Michigan (3 campuses)
- New Jersey (1)
- Ohio (1)
- Texas (2)
- West Virginia (1)
Classroom-Based Programs
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Non-Degree
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- Diploma in IT Support Specialist
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Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Must be a high school graduate or have completed GED
School locations:
- Colorado (1 campus)
Classroom-Based Programs
- Associate
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Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Must be 17 years of age or older
School locations:
- Online Learning
Online Programs
-
Non-Degree
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- Career Diploma - Basic Electronics
- Career Diploma - Computer Service & Repair: Hardware
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-
Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Must be a high school graduate or have completed GED
School locations:
- Online Learning
Online Programs
- Bachelor
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School locations:
- New York (3 campuses)
Classroom-Based Programs
-
Associate
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- Associate in Electrical Technology
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Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Must be 18 years of age or older
School locations:
- Online Learning
Distance Learning Programs
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Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Must be a high school graduate or have completed GED
School locations:
- Online Learning
Online Programs
Other Schools:
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School locations:
- Alaska (2 campuses)
Areas of study you may find at University of Alaska include:
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- Graduate: Doctorate, Master
- Non-Degree: Certificate, Coursework
- Post Degree Certificate: Postbaccalaureate Certificate
- Undergraduate: Associate, Bachelor
- Mechanic and Repair Technologies
- Construction Management and Trades
- Electrical Repair and Maintenance
- Computer Installation and Repair
- Vehicle Repair and Maintenance
