If you love working with computers, a job as a computer systems specialist may be a good fit for your future. But what exactly do systems specialists do? Basically, they provide technical support to help companies keep their systems updated, efficient, and running properly. That’s a lot of responsibility! Are you up for the task?

Computer System Specialist Job Description

Your primary job as a computer systems specialist will be to keep the organization’s hardware and software up to date. You will be the systems administration professional that everyone turns to when their systems don’t work right. They will trust you to figure out what’s wrong and fix it.

In this role, you may be called upon to:

• Set up systems
• Test network systems
• Perform maintenance
• Troubleshoot issues
• Secure networking for multiple workstation environments
• Set up servers and connect computer hardware to them

You may also need to figure out the costs of technology and let managers know what the company computer systems need to stay relevant. And you’ll be the go-to person to train everyone on your organization’s systems, software, and hardware.

Where Do Computer Systems Specialists Work?

Your role and responsibilities will depend on the company and industry you work for. As a professionally trained system specialist, you could find employment in lots of different industries and settings. You might work in a big private corporation, for a retail giant, or within a healthcare organization. You could work for a bank or a telecommunications company. You could even work for a computer company. But there are also lots of small companies that need the skills of computer system specialists. Nearly any organization that relies on computer systems will be an opportunity for you to use your skills.

Demand for Computer Systems Specialists

Computers are everywhere! That’s probably why people who can work on computer systems are needed. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, demand for the profession is expected to grow nationally, faster than average through 2028. And in some states like Pennsylvania, which is in the top ten for employment of these trained professionals, demand is especially high.

How You Can Become a Computer Systems Specialist

First, you’ll need to love computers. But also puzzles—because sometimes fixing a computer or its systems is a lot like a puzzle without an easy answer. You’ll also need to be:

• Detail-orientated
• Determined
• Good communicator
• Logical thinker
• Patient
• Analytical

Then, take your innate curiosity and natural abilities and get formal training. At YTI Career Institute, you can train to become a Computer Systems Specialist in as little as 21 months in our Computer and Data Management program.