IT support technician
IT support technicians give technical help to computer users by identifying and fixing hardware, software and network problems.
What you'll do
Day-to-day tasks
As an IT support technician, you could:
- respond to customers' requests for IT help
- record details of issues on a tracking system
- find and fix faults, or assign tasks to the correct team
- monitor progress and record solutions
- update online knowledge bases for others to refer to
- regularly check hardware like printers, projectors and IT cabling
- set up new equipment and user accounts, and install software upgrades
- show people how to use new software, both face-to-face and online
Working environment
You could work in an office, at a client's business or in a contact centre.
Career path and progression
With experience, you could become a senior IT support technician, IT project manager or departmental manager.
With further training, you could work in other technical roles, such as:
You could also work as a freelance IT contractor or consultant.
What it takes
Skills and knowledge
You'll need:
- knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software
- analytical thinking skills
- the ability to work well with others
- customer service skills
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- excellent verbal communication skills
- to be flexible and open to change
- the ability to use your judgement and make decisions
- to have a thorough understanding of computer systems and applications
How to become
You can get into this job through:
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
You could take a college course in computing, computer science or IT support. Courses like these may help you to get a trainee position with an organisation.
Other relevant courses include:
- ICT systems and principles
- ICT professional competence
- T level in Digital Support Services
Entry requirements
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T Level
More Information
You may be able to apply for a Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship, such as:
- IT Solutions Technician
- Information Communications Technician
- Digital Support Technician
- Cyber Security Technician
These apprenticeships take up to 2 years to complete. They combine on-the-job training and time spent with a college or learning provider.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
More Information
You could start as a trainee technician with an organisation and do IT support qualifications while you work. You'll usually need some IT skills and knowledge to get a trainee job.
Career tips
You may find it helpful to get some industry standard training for administrator and support technician roles. This can be done through organisations like:
Further information
You can find out more about working in IT support from techskills and The Chartered Institute for IT.
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External links
This page contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.