IT Technical Support Officer

IT technical support officers monitor and maintain the computer systems and networks of an organisation. You could be installing and configuring computer systems, diagnosing hardware and software faults and solve technical and applications problems, either over the phone or in person.

Depending on the size of the organisation, working as a technical support officer, your role may span one or more areas of expertise.

Organisations increasingly rely on computer systems in all areas of their operations and decision-making processes. It's therefore crucial to ensure the correct running and maintenance of the IT systems.

Your job titles may vary. Alternatives include:

• applications support specialist
• help desk operator
• maintenance engineer
• technician.

You may also work within first or second-line support. The work is as much about understanding how information systems are used as applying technical knowledge related to computer hardware or software.

Responsibilities

IT technical support officers are mainly responsible for the smooth running of computer systems and ensuring users get maximum benefits from them. Individual tasks vary depending on the size and structure of the organisation, but you'll generally need to:

• install and configure computer hardware operating systems and applications
• monitor and maintain computer systems and networks
• talk staff or clients through a series of actions, either face-to-face or over the phone, to help set up systems or resolve issues
• troubleshoot system and network problems, diagnosing and solving hardware or software faults
• replace parts as required
• provide support, including procedural documentation and relevant reports
• follow diagrams and written instructions to repair a fault or set up a system
• support the roll-out of new applications
• set up new users' accounts and profiles and deal with password issues
• respond within agreed time limits to call-outs
• work continuously on a task until completion (or referral to third parties, if appropriate)
• prioritise and manage many open cases at one time
• rapidly establish a good working relationship with customers and other professionals, such as software developers
• test and evaluate new technology
• conduct electrical safety checks on computer equipment.

Employers

IT technical support officers may work in numerous areas, including:

• computer networks - responsible for installing, configuring and maintaining the computers in a large business
• desktop support - direct user assistance
• contract hardware maintenance - working for a business with contracts to maintain and repair computer hardware
• suppliers of vertical software applications - i.e. software applications for a specific business sector, such as retail, travel or pharmaceuticals
• managed hosting providers.

source: https://www.prospects.ac.uk

Share this post