What is a computer repair technician?
This role covers the business of telecommunication equipment installer and repairer, working to improve the transmission of communication signals provided by devices located in offices and homes. Computer repair technicians focus on troubleshooting equipment, installing correct routing signals, reloading faulty cables, updating technology, and testing new software. These technicians are also responsible for detecting and repairing computer repair technician salary and replacing or repairing parts.
Essential education
Common educational requirements for a career as a PC technician include an associate’s degree or certificate of completion from a vocational school. Some students complete computer science degree programs, offered by many universities and colleges. Some of the courses offered in these programs include computer technology courses, electrical systems design, and systems management courses.
Skills required
PC technicians are expected to have good computer skills and good human skills to be able to make calls to the messaging service. PC technicians must be proficient in managing the use of hardware and software. Specifically, they need to understand how personal computer systems interact with each other. They should also be able to repair other parts of the computer system, such as printers, modems, and other ancillary equipment.
Economic and career prospects
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts a 2% decline for computer repairers, but faster-than-average employment growth of 11% for IT support specialists from 2016 to 2026. The need for computer-assisted technicians will continue to ‘The growth of computer use will increase over the next few decades. Data collected by BLS shows that the average wage for computer repairers,
automakers, and office equipment in May 2017 was $ 18.13 per hour, or $ 37,710 per year. Computer support specialists earned an average salary of $ 52,810 in the same period, according to BLS.
Training options for computer repair technicians
You can sign up for a certified repair or repair program and computer support. Some schools offer certification programs that can prepare you for a CompTIA A + certification, designed for IT support technicians. Most certification programs take around six months to complete; some can take up to a year.
Because knowledge of electronics is essential to becoming a computer repair technician, you might consider enrolling in an associate degree program in electronics or electronics and computer technology. Before applying one of these programs, you must ensure that the program adequately covers the topics of computer repair; some associate programs only include 1-2 courses related to computer repair. You can usually earn a partner degree after two years of study.
What will I learn?
In a computer repair certificate program, you will learn the basics of operating systems and system hardware. The lab courses will give you practical training in computer repair. You can explore computer architecture, which is crucial to understanding how computers work and how they can be repaired. You will also learn how to remove and replace parts, troubleshoot error messages, and run analytics on software programs to detect system and hardware failures.
Associated programs in electronics and computer technology often include courses in electrical and circuit control systems. General education courses such as initial communication or composition in English are usually required. Like certificate programs, you will discuss computer repair topics such as computer architecture, computer troubleshooting, and computer hardware.
Get certified
You can gain CompTIA A + designation by taking a certification exam. CompTIA tests can be performed at Pearson VUE and Prometric testing centers. You will need to recertify every three years by taking an updated exam or by participating in CompTIA’s continuing education program. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), certification shows employers that you are well versed in computer repair and can lead to more job opportunities.
Typical job duties
Computer repair technicians install and repair computer systems as well as components of the computer system. The BLS notes that technicians replace some computer parts more often than they repair them; Some parts cannot be repaired and customers may not have time to wait for repairs to be made. Parts that can be replaced include video cards, hard drives, and network cards.
What are some related alternative careers?
Two careers closely related to the repair job of an IT technician are as a sound and broadcast engineer and line installer. According to BLS, broadcasting and sound engineering technicians earned an average salary of $ 43,660 in 2018. This job typically involves managing operational equipment and devices for broadcast media, including radio, film, television via cable, live concerts and studio recordings. In 2018, the median salary for installers and repairers was $ 65,800. In this profession, you can expect to work outdoors with electrical cables, making sure the electrical grids are functioning properly for the use of computers, phones, and electricity.
