Career tips: Computer Service Technician

* Career job information for job seekers.

Computer service technicians install, repair and maintain computer equipment. This can range from laptop computers and equipment such as printers and scanners in a small office, to highly complex equipment in a large commercial, banking, retail or government operation. They usually specialise in one area of operation or even one type of computer. They may trace faults and carry out routine testing, upgrade existing computer equipment or install specialist software required by the user. They may have to service a variety of computers, ranging from old models to the latest machines. Some service technicians work on computer help desks, talking users through their problems on the phone.    ( employment job )

Service technicians work normal office hours, although overtime or weekend work may sometimes be required. Technicians need to be able to drive to visit clients where necessary. The work is mainly indoors, with visits to clients' premises to carry out installations or maintenance.

Salaries range from about £15,000 a year to £40,000.

Computer service technicians should:

• have a good understanding of computer hardware and software
• be good at working with their hands
• have good communication and customer service skills
• have normal colour vision.

Jobs are available throughout the UK. The main employers of computer service technicians are financial businesses such as insurance companies and banks, supermarkets and retail stores, government organisations, the health service, transport operators, buses, railways and airlines.

A common route into this job is to join a recognised company or organisation that offers an Apprenticeship or in-service training. It is possible to enter through engineering, electronics or information technology Apprenticeships. GCSEs in ICT and the Diplomas in information technology and engineering may be relevant for this area of work, but it is possible to start as a trainee without specific academic qualifications.

Technicians may do part of their initial training in a training centre before developing advanced skills in electronics or computing in the workplace. Most employers offer specialist electronic and software training in the machinery they use.

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