Computer Service Technician Job description and Responsibilities
Computer service technicians are called in when
computers or computer equipment are not working property. They talk to the
customer, inspect the equipment, and determine the problem. Technicians may
often run diagnostic programs or use testing equipment to locate specific
problems. Sometimes the malfunction is in the system or other parts of the
hardware. At other times, the problem is the software.
After pinpointing the malfunction, the service
technician must repair it. This may be accomplished by replacing semiconductor
chips, circuit boards, or other components. Repair may also be handled by
fixing the mechanical parts of the computer.
Service technicians inspect the computers and
peripherals and adjust, oil, and clean parts as preventive maintenance. They
are also responsible for installing new equipment and testing it to make sure
it is in working order.
Service technicians who work in the field/site use their own
vehicle or may be provided with a company car or van. Individuals work varied
hours depending on their shift and may be called in to handle emergencies.
Computer service technicians are responsible to the shift supervisor or service
manager.
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Some businesses that employ computer service
technicians include:
Wholesalers of computer equipment, Computer maintenance services, Equipment manufacturers Corporate industr, Consulting and self-employment and Retail computer stores
Expanding Opportunities
for the 21st Century
Computer service technicians who will be most in demand
are those trained and experienced in servicing a variety of models and brands
of equipment. Individuals with at least a two-year degree in electronics will
be more marketable than their counterparts with no formal education. The
increasing number of home offices creates additional opportunities for
servicing and setting up home computer systems as an on site computer technician.
EARNINGS
Earnings for computer service technicians range from
approximately $20,000 to $43,000 plus. Factors affecting earnings include the
specific employment situation and location as well as the education, training,
responsibilities, and experience of the technician.
Generally, the more training and education individuals
have, the higher their earnings are. Service technicians in management or
supervisory positions will earn more than those who handle only service and
repair.
ADVANCEMENT OPPORTUNITIES
There are a number of ways computer service technicians
can advance. Those who started out as trainees can become full-fledged service
technicians and then senior technicians. Other individuals might be promoted to
supervisory or management positions. Some technicians find increased
responsibilities and earnings by locating similar positions with larger or more
prestigious companies.
Computer service technicians may also climb the career
ladder by opening up their own computer maintenance service.The computer technician may be self employed by having computer store with computer spare parts and softwares for his customers and services.
EDUCATION AND TRAINING
Employers usually require at least a high school
diploma plus additional training in basic electronics or electrical engineering
and data processing equipment maintenance. Training may be received at a
vocational-technical school, college, or university, or through the armed
forces.
Many employers offer on-the-job training or formal
training programs to new employees.
Computer franchises sponsor workshops, classes, and
seminars so that technicians can not only get the proper training but also
continue learning new technology. Manufacturers also sponsor similar programs.
EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS
Trainee positions may not require any experience. Other
positions usually will. These requirements, though, will usually be waived if
individuals have formal training.
FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION : Additional
information can be obtained through the Computer and Business Equipment
Manufacturers Association (CBEMA).
TIPS
Send your resume and a short cover letter to computer
manufacturers, computer maintenance firms, and computer retail stores.
This is an excellent career opportunity for individuals
trained in electronics, such as television service technicians.
If you are still in high school, take as many
electronics and computer courses as possible. Some technical high schools offer
preparation in computer repair.
Job openings may be advertised in the newspaper
classified section under "Computer Service Technician," "Computer
Technician," or "Computers." They may also be advertised in
trade journals.
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