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Computer Support Specialist

Troubleshoot the hardware, software, and networks people rely on, often the first tech job.

What it pays in the U.S.

Provide technical assistance to computer users. Answer questions or resolve computer problems for clients in person, via telephone, or electronically. May provide assistance concerning the use of computer hardware and software, including printing, installation, word processing, electronic mail, and operating systems.

Median pay (national)$61,860about $29.74 an hour
Typical range$40,980 – $100,540lowest to highest tenth of earners
Usual way inSome college, no degreethen 1 to 12 months on-the-job training

Wage figures are 2025 survey data for United States, shown nationally because no state figure was reported. They describe what people in this job earn now, not what any one person will be offered.

Demand in United States

Employment is projected to change -4% between 2024 and 2034. About 40,800 openings are projected each year.

What the work actually is

  • Inspect equipment and read order sheets to prepare for delivery to users.
  • 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.
  • Modify and customize commercial programs for internal needs.
  • Maintain records of daily data communication transactions, problems and remedial actions taken, or installation activities.
  • Conduct office automation feasibility studies, including workflow analysis, space design, or cost comparison analysis.

Read the full Occupational Outlook Handbook entry from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Licensing, by state

Licensing is set by each state, so there is no national answer. Choose a state above to see which licenses it requires for this career, or look one up with the CareerOneStop License Finder.

Certifications employers recognize

These are national certifications, issued by industry bodies rather than a state. Most are optional, but they are how you prove skill to an employer.

Apprenticeships, by state

Registered apprenticeships pay you while you train. Each state runs its own registration office, which is where to start when you want to find an open program.

Choose a state above to see the offices that register apprenticeships there.

Search open programs directly at apprenticeship.gov.

Now find the schools.

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