A computer service technician typically repairs and maintains various aspects of computer hardware and software systems, either privately or for another company. This can include everything from installing and updating software on a computer to configuring and installing computer hardware. While this type of technician may install or maintain minor computer networks and systems, he or she is unlikely to be involved in the setup of major network systems. Customer service and paperwork issues may also fall under the purview of a computer service technician.
The main responsibilities of a computer service technician are to maintain and install various computer systems and programs. This usually refers to both software and hardware components of a computer or system. Installing and updating an operating system (OS) on a computer, troubleshooting any hardware or software issues, and setting up and maintaining devices like printers, modems, and computer cases are all examples of basic tasks.
A computer service technician can work for another company, often supervising and resolving software and hardware issues for an office or store location, or start his or her own company. This type of private business usually operates as a computer and other device repair shop, providing service and maintenance for a variety of computer problems. A computer service technician can also install software and hardware on a computer for a customer, as well as perform data recovery and software troubleshooting.
Whatever type of work a computer service technician finds, he or she will almost certainly have to deal with customer service and paperwork. He or she must be able to communicate software and hardware issues in a way that customers and coworkers can understand, as well as explain how to resolve them. Service orders and requests for specific pieces or software programs, as well as customer receipts and company expense reports, are common types of paperwork.
After high school graduation or completion of a general educational development (GED) program, the training required to become a computer service technician typically takes only two years. This training can be obtained at a college or university, and there are also a number of technical schools that offer computer service technician programs. Electronics, computer maintenance and repair, and understanding how to troubleshoot common problems are often included in these programs.