All About Computer User Support Specialists
Computer User Support Specialist Definition Provide technical assistance to computer users. Answer questions or resolve computer problems for clients in person, or via telephone or electronically. May provide assistance concerning the use of computer hardware and software, including printing, installation, word processing, electronic mail, and operating systems.
Life As a Computer User Support Specialist
- Maintain records of daily data communication transactions, problems and remedial actions taken, or installation activities.
- Develop training materials and procedures, or train users in the proper use of hardware or software.
- Enter commands and observe system functioning to verify correct operations and detect errors.
- Install and perform minor repairs to hardware, software, or peripheral equipment, following design or installation specifications.
- Oversee the daily performance of computer systems.
- Answer user inquiries regarding computer software or hardware operation to resolve problems.
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Computer User Support Specialist Needed Skills
When polled, Computer User Support Specialists say the following skills are most frequently used in their jobs:
Reading Comprehension: Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
Active Listening: Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Speaking: Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Critical Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
Complex Problem Solving: Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
Writing: Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
Types of Computer User Support Specialist Jobs
- Office Automation Technician
- Call Center Manager
- Information Systems Technician
- Computer Hardware Technician
- Call Center Support Representative
Is There Job Demand for Computer User Support Specialists?
In 2016, there was an estimated number of 636,600 jobs in the United States for Computer User Support Specialist. New jobs are being produced at a rate of 11.3% which is above the national average. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts 72,100 new jobs for Computer User Support Specialist by 2026. The BLS estimates 55,500 yearly job openings in this field.
The states with the most job growth for Computer User Support Specialist are Utah, Washington, and Tennessee. Watch out if you plan on working in Alaska, Ohio, or Maine. These states have the worst job growth for this type of profession.
How Much Does a Computer User Support Specialist Make?
The average yearly salary of a Computer User Support Specialist ranges between $31,220 and $84,510.
Computer User Support Specialists who work in District of Columbia, California, or New Jersey, make the highest salaries.
How much do Computer User Support Specialists make in each U.S. state?
| State | Annual Mean Salary |
|---|---|
| Alabama | $49,120 |
| Alaska | $57,270 |
| Arizona | $52,090 |
| Arkansas | $42,180 |
| California | $66,350 |
| Colorado | $60,440 |
| Connecticut | $59,990 |
| Delaware | $58,780 |
| District of Columbia | $71,020 |
| Florida | $49,260 |
| Georgia | $53,090 |
| Hawaii | $47,990 |
| Idaho | $48,990 |
| Illinois | $53,020 |
| Indiana | $46,990 |
| Iowa | $49,100 |
| Kansas | $45,360 |
| Kentucky | $48,700 |
| Louisiana | $47,570 |
| Maine | $51,930 |
| Maryland | $54,880 |
| Massachusetts | $63,860 |
| Michigan | $50,640 |
| Minnesota | $55,560 |
| Mississippi | $46,670 |
| Missouri | $47,600 |
| Montana | $46,060 |
| Nebraska | $49,660 |
| Nevada | $51,330 |
| New Hampshire | $52,360 |
| New Jersey | $65,260 |
| New Mexico | $43,190 |
| New York | $60,160 |
| North Carolina | $52,510 |
| North Dakota | $53,020 |
| Ohio | $50,180 |
| Oklahoma | $46,710 |
| Oregon | $53,380 |
| Pennsylvania | $52,370 |
| Rhode Island | $56,660 |
| South Carolina | $47,040 |
| South Dakota | $38,860 |
| Tennessee | $49,340 |
| Texas | $52,250 |
| Utah | $50,000 |
| Vermont | $51,170 |
| Virginia | $58,290 |
| Washington | $62,180 |
| West Virginia | $44,290 |
| Wisconsin | $51,810 |
| Wyoming | $51,020 |
What Tools & Technology do Computer User Support Specialists Use?
Although they’re not necessarily needed for all jobs, the following technologies are used by many Computer User Support Specialists:
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Word
- Microsoft Office
- Hypertext markup language HTML
- JavaScript
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Git
- Microsoft Outlook
- Python
- jQuery
- Microsoft Access
- Node.js
- MySQL
- Data entry software
- MongoDB
- SAP
- Microsoft Windows
- Microsoft Project
- Autodesk AutoCAD
- Adobe Systems Adobe Acrobat
How to Become a Computer User Support Specialist
What kind of Computer User Support Specialist requirements are there?
How many years of work experience do I need?
Who Employs Computer User Support Specialists?
Computer User Support Specialists work in the following industries:
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Career changers with experience as a Computer User Support Specialist sometimes find work in one of the following fields:
References:
Image Credit: Craig Dennis via Creative Commons Zero (CC0) license
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