What is a Computer Support Specialist?

Last Updated on Monday, 17 December 2012 08:57 Written by Administrator Tuesday, 12 June 2012 00:00

We hear the term “tech support” every day at work, but does anyone truly know what a computer support specialist does? The technical definition for this position is to provide technical assistance to your organization’s computer system users. However, what does technical assistance really entail?

Job Duties / Tasks

The daily job duties for a computer support specialist can vary, but here are a few that are fairly consistent among many organizations and industries.

1)      Install and perform minor repairs to hardware, software, and peripheral equipment, following design or installation specifications.

2)      Oversee the daily performance of computer systems.

3)      Set up equipment for employee use, performing or ensuring proper installation of cable, operating systems, and appropriate software.

4)      Confer with staff, users, and management to establish requirements for new systems or modifications.

5)      Inspect equipment and read order sheets to prepare for delivery to users.

6)      Develop training materials and procedures, and/or train users in the proper use of hardware and software.

7)      Answer customer enquiries regarding computer software and hardware operation to resolve problems.

Skills Needed

Depending on your specific position, the skills needed for a computer support specialist can vary. Here are a few that are essential for any position.

1)      Critical Thinking - Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to technological problems.

2)      Troubleshooting - Determining causes of operating system errors and deciding how to correct them. 3) Repairing - Repairing machines or systems using specialised tools.

3)      Equipment Maintenance - Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind of maintenance is needed.

4)      Installation - Installing equipment, machines, wiring, or programs to meet the specifications for the organization.

5)      Teaching Strategies - Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate for the situation when teaching other employees new things about the system.

6)      Instructing – properly instructing other employees how to use the software, application, or system.

Knowledge Needed

In order to be a computer support specialist, it does greatly help to have knowledge and experience with the following aspects.

1)      Computers and Electronics - Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.

2)      Engineering and Technology - Knowledge of the practical application of engineering behind the technology you are working with. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of computer and other technological components.

Customer and Personal Service - Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.