Career Study: Computer Support SpecialistTammy Renae Story

April 15, 2008ITEC 7530

Dr. Kenneth Clark

Job Description:Install, test or modify hardware and softwareResponsible for either computers , networks or bothGive advice on how to correct problemsReplace damaged or defective software packagesTrain clients how to use their computers and

softwareDesign and develop guides for usersMay give presentations to groups

- Diablo Valley College http://www.dvc.edu/career/career%20sheets/computer_support_specialist.htm

Typical Employers:Federal governmentLocal and state governmentsPrivate IndustriesComputer, Network and Data

Communications SystemsData system designersData communications equipment companiesTelecommunications companies - Diablo Valley College http://www.dvc.edu/career/career%20sheets/

computer_support_specialist.htm

Working Conditions:Well light computer officesComputer laboratoriesWorking alone or on a troubleshoot team40 hours a week and on callOvertime is necessary if

technical problems arise

Health Concerns:EyestrainBack DiscomfortHand and wrist problems like carpal tunnel

syndrome

Education and Training:There are a number of ways

to prepare for a career as a Computer Support Specialist

1- Pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science or Information Systems

2- Computer Related Associate Degree

3- Certification and relevant computer experience

General Description of Courses:General College Level Core Courses: Algebra,

English, Literature, Science, Social Science, Foreign Language and an Arts Appreciation Course

Intro to MicrocomputersOperating SystemProgram Design and DevelopmentComputer ConceptsNetworking FundamentalsMicrocomputer Installation and Maintenance(Ogeechee Technical College, Fall Quarter 2007)

General Descriptions of Courses Continued:Comprehensive Word Processing and

Presentation GraphicsComprehensive Spreadsheet TechniquesComprehensive Database TechniquesSample Electives such as the following:

Internet Business FundamentalsWeb Site Design ToolsInternet System ManagementE-Commerce Concepts and Practices(Ogeechee Technical College, Fall Quarter 2007)

Qualifications:The following skills

are needed to become a Computer Support Specialist:

Problem – solving skills

Analytical skillsCommunication skillsStrong writing skills

Job Advancement:Computer Support Usually work for

organizationsJob promotion is based

upon job performanceJob Advancements may

lead to a career as a software engineer or product designer

SalaryThe hourly wage for a

Computer Support Specialist as of May 2006 is usually about $21.32.

The salary for a Computer Support Specialist as of May 2006 is usually about $44, 350 a year.

(U.S. Department of Labor: Computer Specialist and Systems Administrators, 2006 - 07)

“Median annual earnings for industries employing the largest numbers of Computer Support Specialist” (U.S. Department of Labor: Computer Specialist and Systems Administrators, 2006 - 07)

Job Prospects:Good for college graduates with current and up

to date technological skillsGood for people who have relevant work

experienceGood for Computer Support Specialist who have

the following combination of skills:Fundamental Computer SkillsGood Interpersonal SkillsCommunication Skills(U.S. Department of Labor: Computer Specialist and

Systems Administrators, 2006 - 07)

Job prospects continued:The U.S. Department of

Labor states, “Due to the demand for computer support specialists over the next decade, those who have strong computer skills should continue to qualify for some entry-level positions.” (U.S. Department of Labor: Computer Specialist and Systems Administrators, 2006 - 07)

Projections Data:(U.S. Department of Labor: Computer Specialist and Systems Administrators, 2006 - 07)

Overall Job Outlook:Employment is expected to

increase by 13% by 2016Demand for Computer Support

Specialist will increase due to companies and industries having to adapt to advance level technology

Computer Support Specialist will remain in demand, due to the need of computer and software technical assistance for customers and clients

(U.S. Department of Labor: Computer Specialist and System Administrators, 2006 - 07)

Three reasons to pursue a career as a Computer Support Specialist:1: Opportunities for career

advancement based upon job performance and relevant acquired technological skills.

2: There is a heavy demand for employees who have strong , current fundamental computer skills.

3: Project growth in this industry, due to the heavy need for technology, both domestic and international.

BibliographyCareer Center: Computer Support Specialist. (2004 - Revised

12/19/2007). Retrieved April 13, 2008, from Delta College: http://www.delta.edu/careercenter/careerprofiles/computersupportspecialistprofile.asp

Computer Support Specialist. (2003 - 2007). Retrieved April 13, 2008, from Diablo Valley College: http://www.dvc.edu/career/career%20sheets/computer_support_specialist.htm

Ogeechee Technical College. (Fall Quarter 2007). Ogeechee Technical Catalog and Student Handbook 2007 - 2008 . Statesboro.

U.S. Department of Labor: Computer Specialist and Systems Administrators. (2006 - 07). Retrieved April 13, 2008, from U.S. Department of Labor: Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook: http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos268.htm#nature

 

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