About Computer Repair Technicians

Computer repair technicians are people who service and repair computers. Computers regularly need upgrades and replacement parts. Some technicians are formally trained and certified, while many are not. Due to the high rate at which technology changes and the wide variety of computers and computer types, the job requires constant on the job learning and the ability to adapt to new devices.

What Computer Repair Technicians Do
Due to the rate of change with equipment, computer repair technicians are often required to change equipment instead of actually repairing it. Much of the job consists of installation and making sure that the new devices work well with the old ones. They will need to be able to understand documentation and the purpose of the new equipment. The job is not limited to working hands-on with equipment; however, it may also involve dealing with users and solving problems in a technical support role. The job may be limited to a workroom where computers are brought to be repaired, or it may involve going out to wherever the computers are located. Due to the fact computers can malfunction at any time of day, computer repair technicians may be called upon to work overnight shifts or be on call. A 40-hour workweek is the standard.

Certifications
While many computer repair technicians work without formal training, most employers do prefer certification, especially if the equipment is critical to the operation of their enterprise. Several recognized places offer exams and certification as well as the educational courses to support them. Among the various certificates and qualifications available for technicians, there is the Associate Level Electronics course and certificate, and Journeyman Level Technician course and certificate.

Career Prospects
Computer repair technicians work in companies that sell computers wholesale to large companies, or retail, to individuals. There is also the possibility of being self-employed as many computer repair technicians opt to open up their own businesses.  As computers become more reliable and less prone to malfunction, the need for people to repair them will decline, though it will not completely disappear. Those with a more thorough knowledge of electronics and computer repair will have the best chance of surviving in the industry for the long term. In 2008, the salaries of computer repair technicians ranged from just above $10 to $23 per hour.