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What is a computer system technician and how to become one
Computer system technicians, also known as technical maintenance professionals, manage the functions of the computer network, operating systems, hardware, and applications of an enterprise. These technicians track system performance and troubleshooting failures to give consumers reliable connectivity and support as soon as possible.
The degree varies for computer system technicians, but usually, post-secondary education is required. Most of the professionals for this role either have a certificate or an associate's degree from community colleges and vocational institutions. Some fields that you can focus on are computer science and network technology. Some employers prefer applicants who have at least one to two years of experience.
Communication, multi-task, analytics, problem-solving, time management, and writing skills are essential skills for computer system technicians. You will also need knowledge of relevant technologies and other resources. The annual average salary for computer system technicians is $20.38 per hour, including tips, bonuses, and overtime.
What general advice would you give to a computer system technician?
Mario Bkassiny Ph.D.
Associate Professor, SUNY Oswego
Avg. Salary $68,788
Avg. Salary $59,228
Growth rate 10%
Growth rate 0.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 0.41%
Asian 10.56%
Black or African American 11.96%
Hispanic or Latino 15.59%
Unknown 5.33%
White 56.14%
Genderfemale 12.89%
male 87.11%
Age - 41American Indian and Alaska Native 3.00%
Asian 7.00%
Black or African American 14.00%
Hispanic or Latino 19.00%
White 57.00%
Genderfemale 47.00%
male 53.00%
Age - 41Stress level is high
7.1 - high
Complexity level is challenging
7 - challenging
Work life balance is good
6.4 - fair
Computer system technician career paths
Key steps to become a computer system technician
Explore computer system technician education requirements
Start to develop specific computer system technician skills
Skills Percentages Technical Support 14.94% Electronic Equipment 8.92% Trouble Tickets 8.33% Troubleshoot 6.72% DOD 5.37% Complete relevant computer system technician training and internships
Accountants spend an average of 3-6 months on post-employment, on-the-job training. New computer system technicians learn the skills and techniques required for their job and employer during this time. The chart below shows how long it takes to gain competency as a computer system technician based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real computer system technician resumes.Gain additional computer system technician certifications
More About CertificationsComputer system technician certifications can show employers you have a baseline of knowledge expected for the position. Certifications can also make you a more competitive candidate. Even if employers don't require a specific computer system technician certification, having one may help you stand out relative to other applicants.
The most common certifications for computer system technicians include Master Certified Electronics Technician (CETma) and Security 5 Certification.
Research computer system technician duties and responsibilities
- Manage LAN at test center sites locate around the country.
- Manage collaborative CSV documentation efforts using Microsoft SharePoint.
- Use of Linux operating system.
- Install hardware, configure protocols utilizing TCP/IP.
Apply for computer system technician jobs
Now it's time to start searching for a computer system technician job. Consider the tips below for a successful job search:
- Browse job boards for relevant postings
- Consult your professional network
- Reach out to companies you're interested in working for directly
- Watch out for job scams
How did you land your first computer system technician job
Are you a computer system technician?
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Average computer system technician salary
The average computer system technician salary in the United States is $68,788 per year or $33 per hour. Computer system technician salaries range between $51,000 and $91,000 per year.
What am I worth?
How do computer system technicians rate their job?
Computer system technician reviews
There was nothing to like. Everyone was polite an hard workers
I don’t too much simple tickets
I really love technical job which is hands on.
I love the fact that I have self taught myself by trouble shooting issues for fifteen years while working in corrections as the Video court officer with no prior experince or degree
I dislike the fact that I don't get paid as a Video technician although I'm called to fix issues
Updated January 8, 2025
