how to become an IT support technician.
The computer is an integral part of everyday modern life but, when things go wrong with a piece of software or hardware or a networking problem occurs, most people can’t fix things themselves. This is where IT professionals come in!
The number of people employed in IT support roles has consistently grown over the past decade to reach almost 940,000, and demand is unlikely to drop any time soon. In fact, a growing tech skills shortage is making opportunities increasingly attractive for the right candidates. So how can you get into the industry?
Our IT recruitment specialists at Randstad Technologies have extensive experience of placing IT support technicians at blue-chip companies throughout the country. Read our quick guide on how to become an IT support technician to find out:
- What the job involves
- The IT support qualifications for which UK employers are looking
- The skills and traits that you’ll need to succeed
- Progression opportunities
- Salary expectations for IT support technician jobs
- How to start searching for opportunities
IT support technician job description
You’ll need a broad knowledge of operating systems and how hardware and software works, as well as understanding networking. Being a good communicator is key, too, as you’ll likely need to explain problems and solutions to people with lesser technical knowledge.
You might work on a company’s site or help people remotely via email, phone or by using web-based applications. No day is the same in an IT support role but your responsibilities could include:
- Working out why faults occur before identifying and implementing solutions
- Communicating with clients or colleagues to get information on faults and explain what’s next
- Upgrading existing IT systems and setting up new ones
- Fixing electronic equipment, including laptops, computers and peripherals such as scanners and printers
- Keeping a record of problems, their causes and solutions to refer to in the future
- Training clients on new software applications or systems
what qualifications do i need to be an IT technician?
You’ll be in demand as a graduate with a degree in computer studies, computer science or any IT-related qualification. But there are no set rules on how to become an IT support technician, and you may find that technical knowhow and relevant work experience are enough to land you a position.
Starting as a trainee technician will usually allow you to study for qualifications and receive in-house training on the job. There are a range of certificates and diplomas which you can undertake at local colleges or private training institutions. They require in-depth study on a full- or part-time basis but can be extremely useful for your career progression.
Relevant college courses for IT roles include:
- Level 2 Certificate in ICT Systems Support
- Level 3 Diploma in ICT Professional Competence
- T level in Digital Support Services
You could also look for IT apprenticeship schemes in your local area.
other skills you might need for IT support roles
As well as having relevant practical knowledge, great IT support technicians are excellent at problem-solving and can prioritise work to meet deadlines under pressure. Often, clients or colleagues need their systems fixing as quickly as possible to avoid lost productivity. Other helpful skills include:
- A methodical, patient approach in a variety of situations
- The ability to work alone or as part of a team
- Good customer-service skills, whether working in-person or remotely
- Interest and desire to keep up with new developments in a fast-moving industry
- Strong analytical skills and attention to detail
progression opportunities
As you gain experience in the field you could advance to a senior IT support technician or manager role. Other options for progressing or diversifying include:
- Going freelance, working as a contractor or starting your own company
- Teaching IT in higher education
- Moving into an IT sales role
Becoming a network engineer, database administrator or systems analyst
typical salaries in IT support technician jobs
According to the National Careers Service, you can expect to start on a salary of £18,000 in a full-time IT support role working 35-40 hours per week. Senior IT support technicians can then go on to earn up to £35,000 per year.
search for IT support technician jobs near you
Are you confident that this line of work is right for you? If you have a strong interest in technology and a desire to help people, then you could make a strong candidate. Search for current IT support technician jobs through our website, or submit your CV to have our IT recruitment specialists send tailored opportunities to your inbox.
If you found this article helpful, you’ll find plenty more job-hunting tips and role guides on our career hub.