• Occupation Overview
• Future Growth Opportunities
• Job Description

II. Job Requirements/Prerequisites:

• Skill Requirements
• Experience Prerequisites
• Education/Training Required

• Bay Area Education/Training Resources

IV. Getting A Job:

• Employers Who Are/Will Be Hiring
• Recommended Job Search Strategy

V. Back To Career Guide Home Page

Skill Requirements

Intellectual - Basic

• Attention to detail.
  
• Troubleshooting ability.
  
• Interest in electronics and computers.
  
• Ability to quickly learn technical concepts.
  

Intellectual - Specialized

• Excellent computer skills.
  
• Knowledge of the inner workings of computers.
  

Social

• Good customer service skills.
  
• Ability to explain technical matters simply and accurately.
  
• Ability to work without close supervision.
  

Physical

• Manual dexterity.
  
• Good eyesight and normal color vision.

Skill Maintenance Requirement
High. New computer hardware and new versions of software are constantly being introduced, and PC Technicians are likely to run into new situations on a continual basis. It is critical to stay current by reading manuals and technical literature, attending conferences, and taking classes.

Experience Prerequisites

In good economic times jobs can be found with little or no experience, as long as one has relevant training or certification. In today's economy however, experience is critical. Getting an internship while in school is an excellent way to gain experience.

Education/Training Required

A high school diploma or GED is required, and preference is given to those who have had specific training in the field of electronics and/or computer repair. Some jobs require A+ Certification, which is the standard for verifying the competency of entry-level computer service technicians. Particularly with the weak economy, those with A+ certification have an advantage in finding a job. Several of the programs listed below prepare individuals for this test.

The next section in this career guide ("Bay Area Education/Training Resources") provides detailed information on some of the training programs available for PC Technicians.