Computer repair technicians are professionals in the Information Technology (IT) field who specialize in computer troubleshooting.
If you are interested in fixing computer hardware, installing software and troubleshooting technical issues, a role in computer repair could be a great opportunity for you. Learning more about this role and what it entails could help you determine your next career steps, and decide if a computer maintenance course is a good idea.
In this article, we explain how you can become a computer repair technician, and provide important career information, including job responsibilities, career prospects, and useful skills.
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What is a Computer Maintenance Technician?
A computer repair technician, also called a computer technician, computer maintenance technician, or PC repair technician, is an IT professional who helps troubleshoot and repair computers and computer programs.
They can help customers in a variety of locations, including corporate offices, IT departments and repair centers. They help ensure that computers, networks and systems work properly.
What do you learn to do in a computer maintenance course?
A computer repair technician works to ensure that computers work properly. Your responsibilities may vary depending on your work environment and role, but common duties include:
Preparing new computer systems
Install software programs on computers
Maintain and troubleshoot existing software
Update and scan computer security programs
Educate customers on security best practices
Analyze computer function and repair hardware or servers as needed
Test and evaluate new software programs for a company
Helping customers or employees with technical issues
Answer questions and describe troubleshooting steps for customers
Train customers or employees in computer software programs or general use
Visiting homes or offices to repair computers
Work remotely to resolve issues via live chat and diagnostic testing
How to become a technician in assembly and maintenance of computers?
There are several avenues you can take to become a computer repair technician. If you are interested in this career, consider following these general steps:
- Earn a high school diploma or equivalent
Computer repair technicians must have a high school diploma or equivalent education. Some group schools offer classes in computer repair or technology. These courses can give students a chance to work with computer equipment and develop technical skills.
Technical courses in physics, mathematics and engineering can also help aspiring computer technicians develop their skills. If you're in high school, consider exploring your school's programs for course content.
- Complete additional education
Some computer repair technicians begin their careers with a high school diploma, but many roles prefer or require an associate's or bachelor's degree.
Consider earning an additional degree to help you stand out to potential employers and qualify for more roles. Computer technicians usually have one of the following majors:
Computer hardware technology.
Computer repair technology
PC maintenance.
Information Technology
Information Science
Computer science
Computing and security
Engineering
- Develop technical skills
Computer repair technicians can develop technical skills during their education, work, or individual exploration. Many technicians begin by studying their own computer hardware. They can analyze common computer problems and help your family or friends solve technical problems.
Consider developing your computer repair skills by studying computers, hardware, and networks. You can find relevant information in online groups, online courses, and books.
- Gain professional experience
Work experience can help computer repair technicians advance their skills and qualify for new roles. Consider gaining professional experience applying entry-level roles that involve computer technology.
Some professionals start their careers working in customer service or help centers in a variety of industries. For example, an aspiring computer technician might work at a university help desk and answer technical questions in the library.
- Explore certification options for repairs and computers
There are a variety of certifications available for IT professionals. These certificates show that a professional has developed exemplary industry knowledge and technical skills. A certificate is usually optional for computer repair roles, although some positions may require certain certifications.
There are general IT certification programs or certificates in special software programs. Consider your interests, employment preferences, and skills when choosing a certification program.
- Apply for roles in computer repair
Computer repair technicians can work in a variety of locations. When applying for positions, consider your preferences. You may work for a repair center, business, healthcare organization, or school. You can also pursue freelancing opportunities.
If you are interested in working for a company or organization, you can develop a resume and cover letter to reflect your hard and soft skills. IT professionals should list their specific software knowledge and any certifications they hold on their resumes. This can help show an employer how qualified you are.
If you want to start your career as a freelancer, you can reach out to network connections or clients to find opportunities.
Skills Needed for Computer Repair Technicians
Computer repair technicians use a variety of hard and soft skills to succeed in their roles. Here are some important career skills that can make your job as a computer repair technician easier.
- Customer service
Many computer technicians work directly with customers and clients. They listen to customer computer problems, train customers on new software, and explain computer best practices to others. They can use strong customer service skills like empathy and being patient to help them accomplish these tasks.
- Active listening
Active listening is the ability to fully understand what someone is saying. Computer repair technicians can use active listening to understand customer computer problems. This can help them troubleshoot and resolve issues quickly
- Verbal Communication
Computer repair technicians can explain complex computer concepts to customers and clients. They sometimes lead computer software training within a company or explain processes to residential customers. Strong verbal communication allows you to express ideas clearly to various audiences.
- Troubleshooting
Computer repair technicians use effective troubleshooting skills to solve computer problems.
- Analytical thinking
To resolve technical issues, computer technicians must use analytical thinking to analyze information. They assess how a computer works to create a solution.
- Technical skills
Computer repair technicians require technical skills and industry knowledge. Depending on their role, they may need skills in computer programming, coding, hardware repair, or network analysis. They can also use a variety of computer software and languages.
How much does a Computer Maintenance Technician make? It is worth it?
The average national salary for computer repair technicians is between 1 and 2 minimum wages. Common benefits for this career include remote opportunities, flexible hours, and employee discounts on computer parts purchases. Your salary and benefits may vary depending on your geographic location, education and work experience.
More skilled and certified technicians can more than double their salaries, especially when working in the industry.
It is worth starting as a technician and specializing, also involving work in the area of software and hardware engineering and security.
Computer maintenance technician work environment
Computer maintenance technicians can work in a variety of environments, including:
Computer or technology retail stores
Computer repair centers or help desks
Hospitals or other healthcare organizations
Government buildings
Universities or faculties.
Company IT departments.
Some computer technicians may work as freelancers, which means they work on contracts for individual clients. They may travel to various locations, visiting homes or working remotely.
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