Get a Tech Support or Help Desk Job
InsideTech
Need the latest version of Internet Explorer on your PC? Call tech support. Hard drive making a strange noise? Call tech support.
This entry-level tech career involves helping users fix problems with the software and systems they use. Tech support and help-desk workers answer support questions, from the silly to the serious. Many handle questions from a company’s own computer users, while others respond to phone, e-mail, or chat queries from individuals using a product produced by the company.
Tech support specialists are responsible for the maintenance and support of a company’s PCs. Tasks include troubleshooting, responding to technical problems, and performing maintenance, upgrades and configurations.
Median Salary
$38,000
Education Requirements
While you’ll need some level of technical knowledge to pass the screening for your average help desk job, degrees and certifications aren’t really necessary at this level. Help desk and tech support jobs are natural entry-level positions for those looking to transition into or start a tech career.
Tech support specialists should have knowledge of assorted operating systems, such as Windows 95 and 98, Windows NT and Macintosh, along with familiarity with frequently used applications, from Web browsers to Microsoft Office.
Next Steps
To secure a tech support or help desk job, complete the following steps…
Then, as you prepare to move on from tech support…
yoddel
3 days ago
232 comments
best topic
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garven1960
2 months ago
2 comments
I know this is going to sound messed up, but I am 49 yrs old and have been in tech support of some kind since 1999. For about the last 4 years I was working for an insurance company not doing tech support but doing insurance and decided to go back to school and learn desktop support. I have my MCP in desktop support but cannot seem to land a job so how about some help. my resume is updated and I have been doing field tech work but nothing relative to desktop support, what should I do now to land a descent help desk job
primie
about 1 year ago
26 comments
I have been a tech support then I should be certified (aha!). Get higher pay :>
shrikrishna07
about 1 year ago
2 comments
I am intersted in certification in CCNA please help about after certification what can i do for better job. I am working in Computer technology service provider company how can i get better paying job on same qualification
metascapemedia
about 1 year ago
2 comments
I would highly recommend to everyone interested in Tech Support of any kind to at least work for their CompTIA A+ certification. I have been A+ certified for over a year now, and have had a much easier time finding gainful employment within Support related fields than when I didn't have the Certification. It's well worth the effort!
AndrewSoftwareGuy
about 1 year ago
48 comments
good article, I find it usefull as well
zadokg
about 1 year ago
0 comments
hellooo
kvanhorn
about 1 year ago
4 comments
this is useful but i really dont know what i would use as my skills considering that im just looking to start a career in IT the only experience i had at a job computer related is a drafting job and a certificate of completion in computer aided design, also took some general computer courses in community college anyones input would be appreciated
andra15669
about 1 year ago
4 comments
great!! article very useful