IT Support Specialists
IT Support Specialists provide technical assistance and maintain computer systems, networks, and equipment for organizations and individual users. These professionals troubleshoot hardware and software issues, configure security settings, monitor system performance, and ensure proper installation of technology resources. They work in various environments including corporate offices, help desk centers, and educational institutions, offering support both remotely and in-person.
🎬Career Video
🤖AI Resilience Assessment
AI Resilience Score
Score 1/6: high AI task exposure, declining job demand creates significant risk from AI disruption
How we calculated this:
61% of tasks can be accelerated by AI
-4% projected (2024-2034)
EPOCH score: 15/25
📋Key Responsibilities
- •Back up network data.
- •Configure security settings or access permissions for groups or individuals.
- •Analyze and report computer network security breaches or attempted breaches.
- •Identify the causes of networking problems, using diagnostic testing software and equipment.
- •Document network support activities.
- •Configure wide area network (WAN) or local area network (LAN) routers or related equipment.
- •Install network software, including security or firewall software.
- •Troubleshoot network or connectivity problems for users or user groups.
💡Inside This Career
IT Support Specialists spend their days solving technical puzzles and keeping technology running smoothly for organizations and users. Their morning might begin by reviewing overnight system alerts and prioritizing support tickets, then shift to diagnosing why a department's network connection has slowed to a crawl. They often find themselves moving between different environments—from server rooms where they configure hardware and test connections, to office spaces where they sit beside frustrated users to troubleshoot software issues. Whether working remotely to resolve problems through screen-sharing sessions or on-site installing new equipment, these professionals serve as the crucial bridge between complex technology and the people who depend on it.
A significant portion of their day involves direct problem-solving, which could mean anything from identifying why emails aren't syncing across devices to investigating security vulnerabilities in network infrastructure. They collaborate closely with colleagues from various departments, translating technical concepts into understandable terms and gathering information to diagnose root causes. Documentation plays a key role in their work—they maintain detailed records of solutions, create user guides, and update system configurations. The variety keeps them engaged: one hour they might be walking a marketing team through new software features, and the next they're working with vendors to resolve connectivity issues affecting multiple office locations.
The pace can be unpredictable, with routine maintenance tasks sometimes interrupted by urgent system failures that require immediate attention. IT Support Specialists often work as part of larger technology teams, coordinating with network administrators, security specialists, and management to implement solutions that balance user needs with system reliability and security requirements.
📈Career Progression
What does this mean?
This shows how earnings typically grow with experience. Entry level represents starting salaries, while Expert shows top earners (90th percentile). Most workers reach mid-career earnings within 5-10 years. Figures are national averages and vary by location and employer.
📚Education & Training
Requirements
- •Entry Education: Bachelor's degree
- •Experience: One to two years
- •On-the-job Training: One to two years
- !License or certification required
Time & Cost
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Find jobs and training programs for it support specialists- Median salary: $62K/year
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💻Technology Skills
⭐Key Abilities
🏷️Also Known As
📑Support Roles
This career includes 3 specialized roles with different focuses and compensation levels.
| Specialization | Median Pay | AI Outlook | O*NET Code | Find Jobs | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $71,530 | 🟠 | 15-1231.00 | View details | ||
| $71,530 | 🟠 | 15-1231.00 | View details | ||
| $59,240 | 🔴 | 15-1232.00 | View details |
🔗Related Careers
Other careers in technology
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