How to Become a PC Repair Technician
A PC repair technician fixes personal computers, also known as PCs, including maintenance and installation. They may perform their work on-site at a customer's residence or at a repair shop. Some types of PC repair technicians include only telephone support. If this is a career field you are interested in, it is important to learn the proper process to get started.
- Learn the basic tasks associated with PC repair. This includes replacing hardware components, installing programs and learning the tools available in popular operating systems such as Microsoft Windows.
- Take formal classes in PC repair such as the CompTIA group of courses. These classes typically require a few weeks of full-time study and more than a month of part-time study. CompTIA courses include classes in both hardware and software PC repair.
- Apply what you have learned in formal training on a spare PC. This typically involves practicing your PC during the weekends between classes.
- Obtain a passing grade in PC repair technician tests. A passing grade on CompTIA exams provides A+ certification in both hardware and software. Prospective employers throughout the world value A+ certification in PC repair technicians. CompTIA testing centers are available in major cities throughout the United States.
- Obtain professional experience in PC repair. This may require you to accept low-paying positions at first to establish your reputation. Churches, schools and neighbors are good places to get experience on different types of older PCs.
- Search for higher-paying positions for PC repair technicians. This career field is growing due to the increase in the number of older PCs needing repair. Internet job sites typically have many positions available for PC repair technicians, and this is also a common type of work that temporary staffing agencies try to fill.
- Examine the earnings potential for PC repair work. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the average wage for this type of work is $17.03 per hour.