What You Need to Know to Work in IT Support Services
Information technology (IT) support services workers must have both excellent customer service skills and be able to identify, analyze, and solve a variety of technical problems. They usually fall into one of two categories--technical support specialists or help desk technicians. Technical specialists typically work in-house, installing and overseeing their company's computer networks. Help desk technicians work with customers over the phone or via email to resolve problems. Entry level PC support services workers are often able to advance into senior positions to deal with more complex technical issues and to manage other IT support service employees.
IT Support Services Training and Education
Education requirements for IT support services professionals vary by employer. You may be able to work in the field without a degree, but most employers prefer at least an associate's or bachelor's degree, generally in computer science or a related field. You can advance your career by upgrading your degree, taking IT support services classes, and obtaining professional certifications. Many employers are willing to help finance continuing education for their employees.
Career Outlook and Salaries for IT Support Services
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts that IT workers will have faster than average job growth through 2018. Opportunities should be particularly good in technology-rich industries such as software publishing, hosting and related services, and computer systems design. IN 2008, the median yearly pay for IT support service professionals was $43,450 with the upper 10% earning more than $70,750.