About This Career

Provides technical assistance to computer users. Answers questions or resolves computer problems for clients in person, via telephone, or electronically. May provide assistance concerning the use of computer hardware and software, including printing, installation, word processing, electronic mail, and operating systems.

This career is part of the Information Technology cluster Information Support and Services pathway.

A person in this career:

• Oversees the daily performance of computer systems.
• Sets up equipment for employee use, performing or ensuring proper installation of cables, operating systems, or appropriate software.
• Reads technical manuals, confers with users, or conducts computer diagnostics to investigate and resolve problems or to provide technical assistance and support.
• Answers user inquiries regarding computer software or hardware operation to resolve problems.
• Installs and performs minor repairs to hardware, software, or peripheral equipment, following design or installation specifications.
• Confers with staff, users, and management to establish requirements for new systems or modifications.
• Enters commands and observes system functioning to verify correct operations and detect errors.
• Maintains records of daily data communication transactions, problems and remedial actions taken, or installation activities.
• Refers major hardware or software problems or defective products to vendors or technicians for service.
• Prepares evaluations of software or hardware, and recommends improvements or upgrades.

Working Conditions and Physical Demands

People who do this job report that:

• You would often handle loads up to 10 lbs., sometimes up to 20 lbs. You might do a lot of walking or standing, or you might sit but use your arms and legs to control machines, equipment or tools.
• Work in this occupation involves using your hands to hold, control, and feel objects more than one-third of the time
• Work in this occupation requires being inside most of the time
• Work in this occupation involves making repetitive motions more than one-third of the time
• Work in this occupation involves sitting more than one-third of the time

Working in this career involves (physical activities):

• Seeing clearly up close
• Speaking clearly enough to be able to be understood by others
• Identifying and understanding the speech of another person

Work Hours and Travel

• Regular working hours and limited travel