Career Profile: Computer User Support Specialists

Salary and Outlook

According to the US Department of Labor, there are 690,200 people employed as computer user support specialists in the United States. The median annual salary is $49,770. Entry level employees earn approximately $34,220 per year and senior employees earn approximately $91,060 per year.

Estimates do not include other potential benefits such as health insurance, overtime, or retirement benefits that may be offered by employers.

Job Duties

• Conduct office automation feasibility studies, including workflow analysis, space design, or cost comparison analysis.
• Read trade magazines and technical manuals, or attend conferences and seminars to maintain knowledge of hardware and software.
• Hire, supervise, and direct workers engaged in special project work, problem-solving, monitoring, and installation of data communication equipment and software.
• Answer user inquiries regarding computer software or hardware operation to resolve problems.
• Oversee the daily performance of computer systems.
• Read technical manuals, confer with users, or conduct computer diagnostics to investigate and resolve problems or to provide technical assistance and support.
• Set up equipment for employee use, performing or ensuring proper installation of cables, operating systems, or appropriate software.
• Develop training materials and procedures, or train users in the proper use of hardware or software.
• Refer major hardware or software problems or defective products to vendors or technicians for service.
• Enter commands and observe system functioning to verify correct operations and detect errors.
• Maintain records of daily data communication transactions, problems and remedial actions taken, or installation activities.
• Install and perform minor repairs to hardware, software, or peripheral equipment, following design or installation specifications.
• Prepare evaluations of software or hardware, and recommend improvements or upgrades.
• Confer with staff, users, and management to establish requirements for new systems or modifications.
• Modify and customize commercial programs for internal needs.
• Inspect equipment and read order sheets to prepare for delivery to users.

Career Explorer