You could be:
- responding to technical support calls from end users of computers and software applications
- setting up and installing new computers, networks and software
- setting up user accounts and profiles on the network
- installing updates, known as patches, to software applications
- installing and configuring operating systems, anti-virus software and other applications such as Microsoft Office
- diagnosing and fixing network problems and hardware or software faults
- maintaining inventories of hardware and software
- managing backups of servers, in case of data loss
- keeping a record of issues and faults along with solutions, for future reference.
Depending on the size of the organisation you work for, you may carry out duties in all areas of IT or specialise in one, such as networks or hardware.
Pay: Actual pay rates may vary, depending on:
- where you work
- the size of the company or organisation you work for
- the demand for the job.
Conditions:
- Many IT support engineers work regular hours, but you might sometimes have to be on call at evenings and weekends to deal with emergency breakdowns. You might sometimes have to work at weekends when businesses are closed, to install new computer systems.
- You may have to bend, kneel and lift and carry equipment.
- You may have to travel to different sites to carry out work and possibly spend nights away from home.
- You would deal with customers by phone, email and face-to-face.
- You would have to meet targets for response times to calls and completing the request.