Support Specialist

Job Summary:
Support Specialists assist computer users with the issues they might be having with their hardware or software. They receive, diagnose, and solve software and hardware problems by giving step-by-step instructions. In complicated cases, they will suggest users bring the computer in for expert help.

Qualification:
To work as a computer support specialist, you must complete formal training or have years of hands-on experience, have good technical skills, have good problem-solving skills and have good communication skills. Many computer support specialists learn their skills through formal training programs. Vocational schools, community colleges, and colleges offer training. You may pursue a degree in computer science or information technology or pick up computer skills through hands-on experience.

Salary Range:
Fresh graduates can make an average monthly income of $800-$1,600. Nationally, the median wage for computer support specialists is $3,210 per month ($18.54 per hour). Half of all computer support specialists earn between $2,440 and $4,290 per month ($14.07 and $24.73 per hour).

Pay varies with the worker's skills and level of education. Pay also varies with the employer's location and size.

Prospects:
Computer support specialists may advance by gaining skills in other areas of interest. By completing additional training, specialists may move up to computer programmer jobs. Advancing to other positions may require gaining experience on the job or taking continuing education courses.

Computer support specialists with leadership skills may become supervisors. Others with an interest in business may open their own computer support consulting firm.