Support Technician, Information Technology (IT)

Support technicians in the information technology field are required to maintain the computers, network servers and phone technology in business settings. They often work daily with the hardware, repairing or replacing defective equipment. They may be required to install new or upgraded software and conduct testing on new or current software. IT support technicians may be responsible for diagnosing problems in computer hardware and may be called upon to troubleshoot problems for users, and may work in a help desk or on-call position. IT support technicians often must verify that needed upgrades are installed on systems and may need to conduct periodic inventory of the computers used in a business. They may collect outdated equipment for recycling or disposal and will usually be the people responsible for installing new computers and attaching peripheral equipment such as printers. Occasionally, IT support technicians may be required to instruct new users on software or hardware, especially when major upgrades are made. IT support technicians may be required to have specialized education and certification depending on the type of business for whom they work. Most IT support technicians have obtained a two or four year college degree in the IT field. Certification in computer software programs are often helpful in these positions. IT support technicians are not generally closely supervised but do usually report to the IT manager or someone in a similar position. These employees generally are not required to work in close quarters with other employees though they do spend the majority of their time in a cubicle or office setting. Frequent team activities are not characteristic of this type of position; self-directed individualized activities are far more common.

As an IT Support Technician in the AE, with 3-6 years of experience, your main responsibilities include:

• Providing technical assistance and support to end-users, troubleshooting hardware and software issues.
• Installing, configuring, and maintaining computer systems, networks, and peripheral devices.
• Responding to user inquiries and resolving problems through remote assistance or on-site visits.
• Documenting and updating IT procedures, policies, and knowledge base articles for efficient issue resolution.

The role of Support Technician in Information Technology IT is crucial for maintaining smooth operations and resolving technical issues. For professionals with 3-6 years of experience in the field, here are four alternative roles to consider:

• Systems Administrator: A position that involves managing and maintaining computer systems, networks, and servers, ensuring optimal performance and security.
• Network Engineer: A role focused on designing, implementing, and managing network infrastructure, including routers, switches, and firewalls.
• IT Project Coordinator: A position that involves coordinating and managing IT projects, ensuring they are delivered on time, within budget, and meeting the organization's requirements.
• IT Help Desk Supervisor: A role that involves overseeing a team of support technicians, providing guidance, and ensuring timely resolution of technical issues for end-users.

The role of Support Technician in the Information Technology (IT) sector is projected to experience significant growth in the United Arab Emirates. According to recent data from Google, the market demand for Support Technicians is expected to steadily rise over the next 10 years. This growth is attributed to the rapid advancement of technology and an increasing reliance on IT systems across various industries. Consequently, the number of employment opportunities for Support Technicians is also expected to increase, offering promising career prospects in the future job market.