Find out everything you need to know about becoming an IT Specialist.

Job Title - IT Specialist

Description

An IT Specialist provides technical assistance to computer system users. Answer questions or resolve problems for clients in person, via telephone or from remote relocation. May provide assistance concerning the sue of computer hardware and software, including printing, installation, word processing, electronic mail and operating systems.

Typical Job Activities

Installs and performs minor repairs to hardware, software, and peripheral equipment, following design or installation specifications
Oversees the daily performance of computer systems
Sets up equipment for employee use, performing or ensuring proper installation of cable, operating systems, and appropriate software
Maintains record of daily data communication transactions, problems and remedial action taken, and installation activities
Reads technical manuals, discusses with users, and conducts computer diagnostics to investigate and resolve problems and to provide technical assistance and support
Discusses with staff, users, and management to establish requirements for new systems or modifications
Develops training materials and procedures, and/or train users in the proper use of hardware and software
Refers major hardware or software problems or defective products to vendors or technicians for service
Prepares evaluations of software or hardware, and recommend improvements or upgrades
Reads trade magazines and technical manuals, and attend conferences and seminars to maintain knowledge of hardware and software
Supervises and coordinate workers engaged in problem-solving, monitoring, and installing data communication equipment and software
Inspects equipment and read order sheets to prepare for delivery to users
Modifies and customises commercial programs for internal needs
Answers users' inquiries regarding computer software and hardware operation to resolve problems
Enters commands and observe system functioning to verify correct operations and detect errors
Conducts office automation feasibility studies, including workflow analysis, space design, and cost comparison analysis

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Related Occupations

Computer and Information Systems Manager
Computer Network Architect
Computer Programmer
Computer Systems Analyst
Computer Service Representative
Information Security Analyst
Software Developer
Web Developer

Educational Requirements

National Senior Certificate meeting degree requirements for a degree course in Computer Sciences
National Senior Certificate meeting diploma requirements for a diploma course in Computer Sciences
Each institution will have its own minimum entry requirements      

Compulsory subjects: Mathematics and Physical Science
Recommended subjects: Information Technology

What natural skills and/or aptitudes do I need for this occupation?

To be problem-solving
To be able to think critically
To have active listening
To have interpersonal skills
Be interest in software design and development
Pays attention to detail
Works well under pressure
Be a precise and accurate worker
Have an aptitude for Mathematics and Computer Science

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Employment Opportunities

High

Market Competitiveness

Low

Income Potential

High

Self-Employment Opportunities

Moderate

International Employment Market Opportunities

High

Possible Employers

Big private companies that supply computers
Government departments - Universities and universities of technology
Provincial administrations
Computer bureaus e.g. Spoornet, Telkom, Denel
Medium or small companies or businesses using computer systems and networks.
Contractor e.g. Software houses
Consultant

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Relevant Contact Details

Computer Society of SA
www.cssa.org.za

Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA)
www.ecsa.org.za

Information Systems Electronics & Telecommunication Technologies (ISETT)
www.isett.org.za

Working conditions

Hard work
Sometimes many hours are needed to solve problems
Difficulty in staying abreast in the field
The long period of preparation and study required to register as a professional computer software engineer

Career Progress and Path

Further Studies in the specific career field
Further studies in related fields
Experience in specific field
Work performance
Experience in related fields
General management studies

Possible Career Paths

Specialist career in the specific field
Management positions in the specific field
Management positions in related fields
General business management
Executive positions
Consultant/ contractor/ own practice
Own business

Employment Stability

Highly stable

Reasons to consider this career

A job in government
A job in private companies
To start your business
A stable job
To become a manager
To become a trainer
To work with computers
To solve problems
To work with technology
To learn new things
To make money
To not have to study theories
To work locally
To focus on a specific field
To apply my special skills
To work with people
To face intellectual challenges