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Career Journey
Benchmark Positions
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Entry Level Positions
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Information about Occupations
Click below to read more information about each occupation!
Application/ Software Developer
Computer Systems Analyst
Cybersecurity/ Information Security Analyst
Cybersecurity Specialist
Cybersecurity Support Technician
Help Desk Technicial
Information Assurance (IA) Specialist
IT Auditor
IT Specialist
IT Support Specialist
Network Support Technician
Application/Software Developers
Tasks, Responsibilities, and Duties
- Analyze user needs and develop software via coding to meet those needs.
- Recommend software upgrades for existing programs and systems.
- Design each piece of an application or system and plan how the pieces will work together.
- Create a variety of models and diagrams that outline the software code needed for an application.
- Ensure that a program functions optimally through software maintenance and testing.
- Document every aspect of an application or system as a reference for future maintenance and upgrades.
- Identify project risks and recommend steps to minimize those risks.
- Implement software testing, using either manual or automated programs and exploratory testing, and evaluate results.
- Document and report defects or problems with software.
- Provide feedback to other software developers and stakeholders regarding usability and functionality.
Registered Apprenticeships
- Commercial Drone Software Developer (RAPIDS Code: 2072)
- Time-Based: Estimated Length - 2 Years
- Competency-based: Estimated Length - 2 Years
- Hybrid: Estimated Length - 2 Years
- Application Developer (RAPIDS Code: 1129)
- Time-Based: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Competency-based: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Hybrid: Estimated Length - 1 Year
Certifications
CompTIA IT Fundamentals+; CompTIA Security+; CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+); CompTIA PenTest+; CompTIA Linux+; Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP); IT Infrastructure Library (ITIL) Certification; Microsoft (MTA, MSCA, MSCE).
In 2021, the median annual salary for Application/Software Developers was $120,730. Annual salaries range from $64,470 to more than $168,570 depending on experience and other factors.
Top Industries for Employment
- Software publishers
- Computer systems design and related services
- Computer and peripheral equipment manufacturing
- Data processing, hosting, and related services
Employment Trends
1,364,180 people were employed in this occupation in 2021. Employment of Application/Software Developers is projected to grow 22% from 2020 to 2030. About 113,500 openings for Application/Software Developers are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the strong growth in demand for workers in this occupation and others result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.
The need for new applications on smart phones and tablets will help increase the demand for Application/Software Developers.
The health and medical insurance and reinsurance carriers’ industry will need innovative software to manage new healthcare policy enrollments and administer existing policies digitally. As the number of people who use this digital platform increases over time, demand for Application/Software Developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers will grow.
Application/Software Developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers are likely to see new opportunities because of an increase in the number of products that use software. For example, computer systems are routinely built into consumer electronics and other products, such as cell phones and appliances.
Concerns over threats to computer security could result in more investment in security software to protect computer networks and electronic infrastructure.
- Application Developer
- Application Integration Engineer
- Commercial Drone Software Developer
- Developer
- Infrastructure Engineer
- Mobile App Developer
- Network Engineer
- Software Architect
- Software Development Engineer
- Software Engineer
- Systems Engineer
Computer Systems Analyst
Tasks, Responsibilities, and Duties
- Coordinate software or hardware installation.
- Monitor computer system performance to ensure proper operation.
- Apply information technology to solve business or other applied problems.
- Collaborate to determine design specifications or details.
- Provide technical support for software maintenance or use.
- Collect data about customer needs.
- Test, maintain, and monitor computer programs and systems, including coordinating the installation of computer programs and systems.
- Consult with management to ensure agreement on system principles.
- Confer with clients regarding the nature of the information processing or computation needs a computer program is to address.
- Assist staff and users with computer-related problems, such as malfunctions and program problems.
- Interview or survey workers, observe job performance, or perform the job to determine what information is processed and how it is processed.
Registered Apprenticeships
- Cloud Operations Specialist 1 (RAPIDS code: 2085); Cloud Operations Specialist 2 (RAPIDS code: 2086).
- Time-Based: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Competency-Based: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Hybrid: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Computer Support Specialist-Desktop Support Tech (RAPIDS code: 2018)
- Time-Based: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Competency-Based: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Hybrid: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Customer Service Tech Support (RAPIDS code: 3031)
- Time-Based: Estimated Length - 2 Years
- Competency-Based: Estimated Length - 2 Years
- Hybrid: Estimated Length - 2 Years
- Health Information Technology Specialist (RAPIDS code: 2024)
- Time-Based: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Competency-Based: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Hybrid: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- IT Generalist (RAPIDS code: 1059)
- Time-Based: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Competency-Based: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Hybrid: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Help Desk Technician (RAPIDS code: 1131)
- Time-Based: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Competency-Based: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Hybrid: Not Available
Certifications
CompTIA IT Fundamentals+; CompTIA Security+; CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+); CompTIA PenTest+; CompTIA Linux+; Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP); IT Infrastructure Library (ITIL) Certification; Microsoft (MTA, MSCA, MSCE).
In 2021, the median annual salary for Computer Systems Analysts was $99,270. Annual salaries range from $60,680 to more than $158,010 depending on experience and other factors.
Adding certifications and advanced degrees may help boost the Computer Systems Analyst salary beyond the base level. The Global Knowledge 2020 IT Skills and Salary Report revealed that IT professionals who gained new skills or added a certification received an average raise of $12,000–$13,000.
Top Industries for Employment
- Computer systems design and related services
- Management of Companies and enterprises
- Insurance carriers
- Monetary authorities, credit intermediation, and related activities
- Information
- Government
- Health care
Employment Trends
505,150 people were employed in this occupation in 2021. Job growth for Computer Systems Analysts is driven by many factors, such as the adoption of cloud computing, increasing cybersecurity threats, and the adoption of technology in healthcare and other industry sectors. Employment for Computer Systems Analysts is projected to grow 7% from 2020 to 2030, with a projected 47,500 openings for Computer Systems Analysts annually. The outlook for jobs in the healthcare industry is particularly strong with the adoption of electronic medical records and other types of healthcare IT.
- Applications Analyst
- Business Systems Analyst
- Computer Analyst
- Computer Systems Analyst
- Computer Systems Consultant
- IT Analyst
- Information Systems Analyst (ISA)
- System Analyst
Cybersecurity/Information Security Analyst
Tasks, Responsibilities, and Duties
- Plan, implement, upgrade, or monitor security measures for the protection of computer networks and information.
- Assess system vulnerabilities for security risks and propose and implement risk mitigation strategies.
- Develop plans to safeguard computer files against accidental or unauthorized modification, destruction, or disclosure and to meet emergency data processing needs.
- Monitor current reports of computer viruses to determine when to update virus protection systems.
- Encrypt data transmissions and erect firewalls to conceal confidential information as it is being transmitted and to keep out tainted digital transfers.
- Modify computer security files to incorporate new software, correct errors, or change individual access status.
- Review violations of computer security procedures and discuss procedures with violators to ensure violations are not repeated.
- Maintain permanent fleet cryptologic and carry-on direct support systems required in special land, sea surface and subsurface operations.
- Perform risk assessments and execute tests of data processing system to ensure functioning of data processing activities and security measures.
- Confer with users to discuss issues such as computer data access needs, security violations, and programming changes.
- Document computer security and emergency measures policies, procedures, and tests.
- Coordinate implementation of computer system plan with establishment personnel and outside vendors.
- Monitor use of data files and regulate access to safeguard information in computer files.
- Train users and promote security awareness to ensure system security and to improve server and network efficiency.
Registered Apprenticeships
- Cybersecurity Support Technician (RAPIDS Code: 2050)
- Time-Based: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Competency-based: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Hybrid: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Information Technology Specialist (RAPIDS Code: 1132)
- Time-Based: Not Available
- Competency-based: Estimated Length - 2 Years
- Hybrid: Not Available
- IA Specialist (RAPIDS Code: 1060).
- Time-Based: Estimated Length - 3 Years
- Competency-based: Not Available
- Hybrid: Not Available
Certification
Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP); Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP); A+ (CompTIA); Cybersecurity Analyst Certification, CySA+ (CompTIA); Network+ (CompTIA); Network Vulnerability Assessment Professional (CompTIA); Network Security Professional (CompTIA); Security Analytics Professional (CompTIA); Security+ (CompTIA); Project+ (CompTIA); PenTest+ (CompTIA); IT Operations Specialist (CompTIA); Secure Infrastructure Specialist (CompTIA); ITIL®1 Foundation.
In 2021, the median annual salary for Cybersecurity/Information Security Analyst was $102,600. Annual salaries range from $61,520 to more than $165,920 depending on experience and other factors.
Top Industries for Employment
- Computer systems design and related services
- Monetary authorities, credit intermediation, and related activities
- Management of companies and enterprises
- Credit intermediation and related activities
- Insurance carriers
- Management, scientific, and technical consulting services
Employment Trends
157,220 people were employed in this occupation in 2021. Employment of Cybersecurity/Information Security Analysts is projected to grow 33% from 2020 to 2030 (about 15,455 openings annually), much faster than the average for other IT occupations.
Cybersecurity Support Technician; IA Specialist; Information Security Officer; Information Security Specialist; Information Systems Security Analyst; Information Systems Security Officer (ISSO); IT Security Analyst; Network Security Analyst; Security Analyst; Systems Analyst.
Cybersecurity Specialist
Tasks, Responsibilities, and Duties
- Scan and assess network for vulnerabilities.
- Monitor network traffic for unusual activity.
- Investigate breaches when they occur.
- Install and use software to protect sensitive information.
- Prepare reports that document security breaches.
- Research new security technology.
- Help end-users when they need to install or learn about new products and procedures.
- Simulate attacks to look for vulnerabilities in their systems before they can be exploited and write reports based on simulation results.
Registered Apprenticeships
- Cybersecurity Support Technician (RAPIDS Code: 2050).
- Time-Based: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Competency-based: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Hybrid: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Information Technology Specialist (RAPIDS Code: 1132).
- Time-Based: Not Available
- Competency-based: Estimated Length - 2 Years
- Hybrid: Not Available
- IA Specialist (RAPIDS Code: 1060).
- Time-Based: Estimated Length - 3 Years
- Competency-based: Not Available
- Hybrid: Not Available
Certification
Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP); Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP); A+ (CompTIA); Cybersecurity Analyst Certification, CySA+ (CompTIA); Network+ (CompTIA); Network Vulnerability Assessment Professional (CompTIA); Network Security Professional (CompTIA); Security Analytics Professional (CompTIA); Security+ (CompTIA); Project+ (CompTIA); PenTest+ (CompTIA); IT Operations Specialist (CompTIA); Secure Infrastructure Specialist (CompTIA); ITIL®1 Foundation.
In 2021, the median annual salary for Cybersecurity Specialists was $102,600. Annual salaries range from $61,520 to more than $165,920 depending on experience and other factors.
Top Industries for Employment
- Computer systems design and related services
- Monetary authorities, credit intermediation, and related activities
- Management of companies and enterprises
- Credit intermediation and related activities
- Insurance carriers
- Management, scientific, and technical consulting services
Employment Trends
157,220 people were employed in this occupation in 2021. Employment of Cybersecurity Specialists is projected to grow 33% from 2020 to 2030 ((about 15,455 openings annually).
These skills are widely used in the market and are listed under different job titles. Employers may use the titles Cybersecurity Analyst and Cybersecurity Specialist interchangeably.
Cybersecurity Analyst; Jr. Security Architect; Penetration Tester; Security Administrator; Security Analyst; Vulnerability Assessor.
Cybersecurity Support Technician
Tasks, Responsibilities, and Duties
- Monitor firewall and other relevant security logs to review for threats, anomalies, intrusions and/or abnormal connection behavior.
- Investigate, report, and escalate issues as required to cybersecurity staff and management.
- Troubleshoot network performance or network security issues.
- Analyzes network traffic, and respond and resolve service requests.
- Participate in incident response, computer forensics, data preservation and investigations related to network breaches and/or unauthorized access of data.
- Support regular and special reporting and analysis, including reports of vulnerabilities, risks, control deficiencies, remediation strategies, and performance metrics.
- Configure and test security related technologies.
- Perform hardware and software upgrades and documents configurations and system specifications.
- Help maintain configuration records and documentation, including security operations and maintenance, incident control, cyber incident response procedures, and other standards, policies, and procedures.
- Provide security- related technical support to users and assists with the research, testing, evaluation, and implementation of security tools, systems, and processes.
Registered Apprenticeships
- Cybersecurity Support Technician (RAPIDS Code: 2050).
- Time-Based: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Competency-based: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Hybrid: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Information Technology Specialist (RAPIDS Code: 1132).
- Time-Based: Not Available
- Competency-based: Estimated Length - 2 Years
- Hybrid: Not Available
- IA Specialist (RAPIDS Code: 1060).
- Time-Based: Estimated Length - 3 Years
- Competency-based: Not Available
- Hybrid: Not Available
Certification
Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP); Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP); A+ (CompTIA); Cybersecurity Analyst Certification, CySA+ (CompTIA); Network+ (CompTIA); Network Vulnerability Assessment Professional (CompTIA); Network Security Professional (CompTIA); Security Analytics Professional (CompTIA); Security+ (CompTIA); Project+ (CompTIA); PenTest+ (CompTIA); IT Operations Specialist (CompTIA); Secure Infrastructure Specialist (CompTIA); ITIL®1 Foundation.
In 2021, the median annual salary for Cybersecurity Support Technicians was $102,600. Annual salaries range from $61,520 to more than $165,920 depending on experience and other factors.
Top Industries for Employment
- Computer systems design and related services
- Monetary authorities, credit intermediation, and related activities
- Management of companies and enterprises
- Credit intermediation and related activities
- Insurance carriers
- Management, scientific, and technical consulting services
Employment Trends
157,220 people were employed in this occupation in 2021. Employment of Cybersecurity Specialists is projected to grow 33% from 2020 to 2030 ((about 15,455 openings annually).
Cybersecurity Analyst; Cybersecurity Support Technician; ; Information Assurance Specialist; Information Security Officer; Information Security Specialist; Information Systems Security Analyst; Information Systems Security Officer (ISSO); IT Security Analyst; IT Specialist (CB); Network Security Analyst; Security Analyst; Systems Analyst.
Help Desk Technician
Tasks, Responsibilities, and Duties
- Provide technical support for software maintenance or use.
- Monitor computer system performance to ensure proper operation.
- Install computer hardware.
- Deliver computer equipment training.
- Conduct software performance testing.
- Document operational activities.
- Modify software programs to improve performance.
- Test computer hardware performance.
- Maintain computer hardware.
- Evaluate utility of software or hardware technologies.
- Provide technical assistance to computer users.
- Answer questions or resolve computer problems for clients in person, via telephone, or electronically.
- Assist in the use of computer hardware and software, including printing, installation, word processing, electronic mail, and operating systems.
Registered Apprenticeships
- Cloud Operations Specialist 1 (RAPIDS code: 2085)
- Time-Based: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Competency-Based: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Hybrid: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Computer Support Specialist-Desktop Support Tech (RAPIDS code: 2018)
- Time-Based: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Competency-Based: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Hybrid: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Customer Service Tech Support (RAPIDS code: 3031)
- Time-Based: Estimated Length - 2 Years
- Competency-Based: Estimated Length - 2 Years
- Hybrid: Estimated Length - 2 Years
- Health Information Technology Specialist (RAPIDS code: 2024)
- Time-Based: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Competency-Based: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Hybrid: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- IT Generalist (RAPIDS code: 1059)
- Time-Based: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Competency-Based: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Hybrid: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Computer Support Specialist (RAPIDS code: 1131)
- Time-Based: Not Available
- Competency-Based: Not Available
- Hybrid: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Cloud Operations Specialist 2 (RAPIDS code: 2086)
- Time-Based: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Competency-Based: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Hybrid: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Help Desk Technician (RAPIDS code: 1131)
- Time-Based: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Competency-Based: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Hybrid: Not Available
Certification
CompTIA A+; Computer Troubleshooting Certification; CompTIA A+ Certification; Master Certified Electronics Technician (CETma); Certified Network Computer Technician (CNCT); Security 5 Certification; HDI Desktop Support Technician (HDI); Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA); Cisco Certified Entry Networking Technician (CCENT); Certified Help Desk Manager (CHDM); Microsoft Certified Desktop Support Technician (MCDST).
In 2021, the median annual salary for Help Desk Technicians was $49,770. Annual salaries range from $34,220 to more than $91,060 depending on experience and other factors.
Top Industries for Employment
- Computer systems design and related services
- Educational services (state, local, or private)
- Information
- Administrative and support services
- Government
- Finance and insurance
- Management of companies and enterprises
- Health care
Employment Trends
In 2021, 654,310 people were employed in this occupation. There are 49,662 projected annual openings for Help Desk Technicians over the next 10 years.
Cloud Operations Specialist 1; Cloud Operations Specialist 2; Customer Service Tech Support; Computer Specialist; Computer Support Specialist; Computer Support Specialist—Desktop Support Tech; Computer Technician; Desktop Support Technician; IT Generalist; IT Specialist; Health IT Specialist; Help Desk Analyst; Support Specialist; Technical Support Specialist.
Information Assurance Specialist
Tasks, Responsibilities, and Duties
- Plan, implement, upgrade, or monitor security measures for the protection of computer networks and information.
- Assess system vulnerabilities for security risks and propose and implement risk mitigation strategies.
- Ensure appropriate security controls are in place that will safeguard digital files and vital electronic infrastructure.
- Respond to computer security breaches and viruses.
- Monitor organization’s networks for security breaches and investigate when one occurs.
- Use and maintain software, such as firewalls and data encryption programs, to protect sensitive information.
- Check for vulnerabilities in computer and network systems.
- Research the latest security trends in IT.
- Prepare reports that document general metrics, attempted attacks, and security breaches.
- Develop security standards and best practices for their organization.
- Recommend security enhancements to management or senior IT staff.
- Help computer users when they need to install or learn about new security products and procedures.
Registered Apprenticeships
- Cybersecurity Support Technician (RAPIDS code: 2050)
- Time-Based: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Competency-Based: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Hybrid: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Information Technology Specialist (CB) (RAPIDS code: 1132)
- Time-Based: Not Available
- Competency-Based: Estimated Length - 2 Years
- Hybrid: Not Available
- IA Specialist (RAPIDS code: 1060)
- Time-Based: Estimated Length - 3 Years
- Competency-Based: Not Available
- Hybrid: Not Available
Certification
Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP); Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP); ITIL Foundation Certification; CompTIA A+; CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst Certification (CySA+); CompTIA IT Operations Specialist; CompTIA Network+; CompTIA Network Vulnerability Assessment Professional; CompTIA Network Security Professional; CompTIA PenTest+; CompTIA Project+; CompTIA Secure Infrastructure Specialist; CompTIA Security+; CompTIA Security Analytics Professional.
In 2021, the median annual salary for Information Assurance (IA) Specialist was $80,600. Annual salaries range from $49,560 to more than $130,830 depending on experience and other factors.
Top Industries for Employment
- Computer systems design and related services
- Educational services (state, local, or private)
- Information
- Finance
- Management of companies and enterprises
Employment Trends
In 2021, 316,760 people were employed in this occupation. There are 22,933 projected annual openings for IA Specialists over the next 10 years.
Cybersecurity Support Technician; Information Security Officer; Information Security Specialist; Information Systems Security Analyst; Information Systems Security Officer (ISSO); IT Security Analyst; IT Specialist (CB); Network Security Analyst; Security Analyst; Systems Analyst.
IT Auditor
Tasks, Responsibilities, and Duties
- Install, configure, and maintain an organization's local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), data communications network, operating systems, and physical and virtual servers.
- Perform system monitoring and verify the integrity and availability of hardware, network, and server resources and systems.
- Review system and application logs and verify completion of scheduled jobs, including system backups.
- Analyze network and server resource consumption and control user access.
- Install and upgrade software and maintain software licenses.
- May assist in network modeling, analysis, planning, and coordination between network and data communications hardware and software.
- Install and maintain the network and hardware systems.
- Diagnose and repair connectivity issues.
- Grant access to files as needed by users.
- Monitor the network to maintain speed and availability.
- Manage backup systems for the network.
Registered Apprenticeships
- IT Systems Administrator (RAPIDS code: 3022)
- Time-Based: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Competency-Based: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Hybrid: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Information Assurance Specialist (RAPIDS code: 1060)
- Time-Based: Not Available
- Competency-Based: Estimated Length - 3 Years
- Hybrid: Estimated Length - 3 Years
- Network and Computer Systems Administrator (Alternate Title: IT Specialist) (RAPIDS code: 1132)
- Time-Based: Not Available
- Competency-Based: Not Available
- Hybrid: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Network Support Technician (RAPIDS code: 1132)
- Time-Based: Not Available
- Competency-Based: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Hybrid: Not Available
- Information Technology Specialist (RAPIDS code: 1132)
- Time-Based: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Competency-Based: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Hybrid: Not Available
Certification
CompTIA A+; CompTIA Network+; CompTIA Security+; CompTIA Project+; CompTIA IT Operations Specialist; CompTIA Secure Infrastructure Specialist; Axelos ITIL®1 Foundation; LPI Linux Essentials; Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA); Amazon AWS SysOps Administration-Associate; Amazon AWS Cloud Practitioner; Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA); Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP); Certification in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC); Security 5 Certification; IT Information Library Foundations Certification (ITIL); Certified Information Security Manager (CISM); Certified Internal Auditor (CIA); Certification in Risk Management Assurance (CRMA); Information Systems Security Management Professional (ISSMP).
In 2021, the median annual salary for an IT Auditor was $80,600. Annual salaries range from $49,560 to more than $130,830 depending on experience and other factors.
Top Industries for Employment
- Computer systems design and related services
- Educational services (state, local, or private)
- Information
- Finance
- Management of companies and enterprises
Employment Trends
In 2021, 316,760 people were employed in this occupation. There are 22,933 projected annual openings for IT Auditors over the next 10 years.
Information Analyst; Information Systems Manager (IS Manager); IT Specialist; IT Systems Administrator; Information Assurance (IA) Specialist; Local Area Network (LAN) Specialist; LAN Administrator; Network and Computer Systems Administrator; Network Support Technician; Network Administrator; Network Coordinator; Network Manager; Systems Administrator.
IT Specialist
Tasks, Responsibilities, and Duties
- Provide technical assistance to computer users.
- Answer questions or resolve computer problems for clients in person, via telephone, or electronically.
- Support use of computer hardware and software, including printing, installation, word processing, electronic mail, and operating systems.
- Install computer hardware and peripheral components like monitors, keyboards, printers, scanners, network cards and disk drives.
- Load specific software packages, such as operating systems or graphic design programs.
- Maintain daily performance of computer systems and networks.
Registered Apprenticeships
- Cloud Operations Specialist 1 (RAPIDS code: 2085)
- Time-Based: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Competency-Based: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Hybrid: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Computer Support Specialist – Desktop Support Tech (RAPIDS code: 2018)
- Time-Based: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Competency-Based: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Hybrid: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Customer Service Tech Support (RAPIDS code: 3031)
- Time-Based: Estimated Length - 2 Years
- Competency-Based: Estimated Length - 2 Years
- Hybrid: Estimated Length - 2 Years
- Health Information Technology Specialist (RAPIDS code: 2024)
- Time-Based: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Competency-Based: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Hybrid: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- IT Generalist (RAPIDS code: 1059)
- Time-Based: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Competency-Based: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Hybrid: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Cloud Operations Specialist 2 (RAPIDS code: 2086)
- Time-Based: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Competency-Based: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Hybrid: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Help Desk Technician (RAPIDS code: 1131)
- Time-Based: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Competency-Based: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Hybrid: Not Available
Certification
CompTIA A+; Security 5 Certification; Certified Information Technology Professional (CITP); IT Information Library Foundations Certification (ITIL); Certified Network Computer Technician (CNCT); Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA); Certified Instrumentation Specialist (CIS); Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP); Certified Information Security Manager (CISM); Cisco Certified Entry Networking Technician (CCENT); Certified Information Systems Security Professional; CCNP Service Provider Operations (CCNP); CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP); MS Office Specialist Master Certification (MOS).
In 2021, the median annual salary for an IT Specialist was $49,770. Annual salaries range from $34,220 to more than $91,060 depending on experience and other factors.
Top Industries for Employment
- Computer systems design and related services
- Educational services (state, local, or private)
- Information
- Administrative and support services
- Government
- Finance and Insurance
- Management of companies and enterprises
- Health care
Employment Trends
2021, 654,310 people were employed in this occupation. There are 49,662 projected annual openings for IT Specialists. Related Job Titles.
Many IT Specialists advance to other information technology positions, such as Information Security Analysts, network and computer systems administrators and Software Developers. Some become managers in the computer support services department. Some organizations provide paths for IT Specialists to move into other parts of the organization, such as sales.
IT Support Specialist
Tasks, Responsibilities, and Duties
- Maintain system capability by testing computer components.
- Train users on proper use of hardware and software.
- Document hardware and software changes, revisions, and problems.
- Test an organizations’ existing equipment and programs and try out new systems and software to see if the organization would benefit from them.
- Clearly communicate with managers and co-workers to ensure the understanding of the proper use of technology and any troubleshooting that may be needed.
- Provide technical assistance to computer users.
- Answer questions or resolve computer problems for clients in person, via telephone, or electronically.
- May assist with the use of computer hardware and software, including printing, installation, word processing, electronic mail, and operating systems.
Registered Apprenticeships
- Cloud Operations Specialist 1 (RAPIDS code: 2085)
- Time-Based: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Competency-Based: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Hybrid: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Computer Support Specialist – Desktop Support Tech (RAPIDS code: 2018)
- Time-Based: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Competency-Based: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Hybrid: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Customer Service Tech Support (RAPIDS code: 3031)
- Time-Based: Estimated Length - 2 Years
- Competency-Based: Estimated Length - 2 Years
- Hybrid: Estimated Length - 2 Years
- Health Information Technology Specialist (RAPIDS code: 2024)
- Time-Based: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Competency-Based: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Hybrid: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- IT Generalist (RAPIDS code: 1059)
- Time-Based: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Competency-Based: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Hybrid: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Computer Support Specialist (RAPIDS code: 1131)
- Time-Based: Not Available
- Competency-Based: Not Available
- Hybrid: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Cloud Operations Specialist 2 (RAPIDS code: 2086)
- Time-Based: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Competency-Based: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Hybrid: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Help Desk Technician (RAPIDS code: 1131)
- Time-Based: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Competency-Based: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Hybrid: Not Available
Certification
CompTIA ITF+; CompTIA A+; ITIL; CompTIA Network+; CompTIA Security+; ITIL; Microsoft (MTA, MSCA, MSCE); CompTIA Linux+; CompTIA Server+.
In 2021, the median annual salary for IT Support Specialist was $49,770. Annual salaries range from $34,220 to more than $91,060 depending on experience and other factors.
Top Industries for Employment
- Computer systems design and related services
- Educational services (state, local, or private)
- Information
- Administrative and support services
- Government
Employment Trends
In 2021, 654,310 people were employed in this occupation. There are 49,662 projected annual openings for the IT Support Specialist over the next 10 years.
Customer Support Specialist; Help Desk Specialist; IT Project Manager; IT Training Specialist.
Network Support Technician
Tasks, Responsibilities, and Duties
- Install, configure, and maintain an organization's local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), data communications network, operating systems, and physical and virtual servers.
- Perform system monitoring and verify the integrity and availability of hardware, network, and server resources and systems.
- Review system and application logs and verify completion of scheduled jobs, including system backups.
- Analyze network and server resource consumption and control user access.
- Install and upgrade software and maintain software licenses.
- May assist in network modeling, analysis, planning, and coordination between network and data communications hardware and software.
- Back up network data.
- Configure security settings or access permissions to ensure the right people can get in and the wrong ones cannot.
- Analyze and report security breaches or attempted breaches.
- Troubleshoot the network to identify connectivity issues and using diagnostic testing software and equipment.
- Install network software, such as security or firewall software.
- Provide end-user support in person and remotely.
- Evaluate network performance data regarding things like speed, connectivity, and disaster recovery.
Registered Apprenticeships
- IT Systems Administrator (RAPIDS code: 3022)
- Time-Based: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Competency-Based: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Hybrid: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Information Assurance Specialist (RAPIDS code: 1060)
- Time-Based: Not Available
- Competency-Based: Estimated Length - 3 Years
- Hybrid: Estimated Length - 3 Years
- Information Technology Specialist (RAPIDS code: 1132)
- Time-Based: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Competency-Based: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Hybrid: Not Available
- Network and Computer Systems Administrator (alternate title: IT Specialist) (RAPIDS code: 1132)
- Time-Based: Not Available
- Competency-Based: Not Available
- Hybrid: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Network Support Technician (RAPIDS code: 1132)
- Time-Based: Not Available
- Competency-Based: Estimated Length - 1 Year
- Hybrid: Not Available
Certification
CompTIA A+; CompTIA Network+; CompTIA Linux+; CompTIA Server+; Network 5 Certification; Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA); Security 5 Certification; Certified Network Computer Technician (CNCT); Cisco Certified Network Associate Security (CCNA); Master Certified Electronics Technician (CETma); CCNP Service Provider Operations (CCNP); Cisco Certified Entry Networking Technician (CCENT); Computer Service Technician (CST).
In 2021, the median annual salary for Network Support Specialist was $62,670. Annual salaries range from $38,560 to more than $102,410 depending on experience and other factors.
Top Industries for Employment
- Computer systems design and related services
- Educational services (state, local, or private)
- Information
- Finance
- Government
Employment Trends
In 2021, 176,200 people were employed in this occupation. There are 13,127 projected annual openings for Network Support Technicians over the next 10 years.
Computer Network Specialist; IT Consultant; Network Technical Analyst; Network Technician; Systems Specialist.