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Computer Service Technician

Computer service technicians install, service, and configure computer operating software and hardware systems and networks. This includes desktop computers, servers, and related equipment such as printers and network drives.

Also Known As

Computer Specialist, Customer Service Technician, Information Technology Specialist, Personal Computer Service Technician, Service Technician

NOC Codes

In Canada, the federal government groups and organizes occupations based on a National Occupational Classification (NOC) system. This alis occupation may not reflect the entire NOC group it is part of. Data for the NOC group can apply across multiple occupations.

The NOC system is updated every 5 years to reflect changes in the labour market. Government forms and labour market data may group and refer to an occupation differently, depending on the system used.

Here is how this occupation has been classified over time.

2006 NOC

  • 2242: Electronic Service Technicians (Household and Business Equipment)

2006 NOC-S

  • C142: Electronic Service Technicians (Household and Business Equipment)

2011 NOC

  • 2242: Electronic service technicians (household and business equipment)

2016 NOC

  • 2242: Electronic service technicians (household and business equipment)

2021 NOC

  • 22311: Electronic service technicians (household and business equipment)

2023 OaSIS

  • 22311.00: Electronic service technicians (household and business equipment)
Duties
Updated Apr 07, 2022

Computer service technicians’ roles vary. In general, they:

  • Inspect, assemble, and connect new computer equipment
  • Configure systems including PCs, servers, laptops, tablets, and mobile devices
  • Install and configure software applications and connections to cloud technologies
  • Install and set up security software such as virtual private networks (VPNs), anti-malware, and anti-virus tools
  • Configure and troubleshoot internet connections
  • Diagnose and troubleshoot hardware and software problems
  • Connect computers to local area networks (LANs)
  • Test new systems
  • Respond to customer complaints and inquiries
  • Provide technical advice
  • Install internal computer components such as circuit boards and memory, and set up peripheral equipment such as external drives and printers
  • Keep records of maintenance and repair activities
  • Assess equipment performance records
  • Maintain inventories of computer systems and components such as option cards and hard drives
  • Ensure adequate software and hardware licences are in place
  • Manage software and hardware licences
  • Manage servers, routers, switches, wireless access points, and firewalls
  • Maintain ongoing system backups

Computer service technicians work with customer support analysts. They may test new equipment and report results to engineering and manufacturing staff.

Working Conditions
Updated Apr 07, 2022
  • Strength Required Lift up to 20 kg

Computer service technicians work in a variety of settings. Some are clean and airy while others are cold and dusty. Technicians may have to lift and carry heavy computer components.

Technicians usually work a standard work week. But some may be on 24-hour call for certain periods. Some may work overtime if systems fail. The work can be stressful when systems are not working, and customers are upset. Remote administration may be required.

Interests & Abilities

In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2006 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups. If there are multiple related NOC groups, select a NOC heading to learn about each one.

Electronic Service Technicians (Household and Business Equipment)

2006 NOC: 2242

Interest Codes

Interest Codes for This NOC Group
OBJECTIVE

Interest in precision working to adjust, align, replace and repair equipment, assemblies and components following manuals and schematics; and to inspect and test equipment, components and assemblies using multimeters, circuit testers, oscilloscopes, logic probes and other test instruments, tools and equipment

INNOVATIVE

Interest in analyzing equipment to diagnose and locate circuit, component and equipment faults

METHODICAL

Interest in speaking to customers regarding equipment malfunctions to complete work orders; may supervise other electronic equipment service technicians

Your Interest Codes

To identify or change your interest codes, complete the Interests Exercise in CAREERinsite.

Reading Interest Codes
A Quick Guide

The interest code helps you figure out if you’d like to work in a particular occupation. 

It’s based on the Canadian Work Preference Inventory (CWPI), which measures 5 occupational interests: Directive, Innovative, Methodical, Objective, and Social.

Each set of 3 interest codes for this NOC group is listed in order of importance.

A code in capital letters means it’s a strong fit for the occupation.

A code in all lowercase letters means the fit is weaker.

Learn About Interests

Abilities

Typical ability expectations for this NOC group
Your abilities

To fill in or change the values for your abilities, complete the Abilities Exercise in CAREERinsite.

Mental Abilities

General Learning Ability

Verbal Ability

Numerical Ability

Visual Abilities

Spatial Perception

Form Perception

Clerical Perception

Physical Abilities

Motor Coordination

Finger Dexterity

Manual Dexterity

Understanding Abilities

A Quick Guide

You are born with abilities that help you process certain types of information and turn it into action. These abilities influence which skills you can learn more easily.

The abilities or aptitudes shown for this NOC group come from the General Aptitude Test Battery (GATB). The GATB measures 9 aptitudes. It groups them into 3 categories: mental, visual, and physical.

The abilities scores range from 1 to 5, with 5 being stronger.

Learn About Abilities

Traits & Skills
Updated Apr 07, 2022

Computer service technicians need:

  • Communication and documentation skills
  • People skills (for dealing with customers in problem situations)
  • Mechanical aptitude
  • Logical and critical thinking ability
  • Problem-solving skills
  • The ability to work alone and with others

They should enjoy:

  • Using tools and equipment for precise tasks
  • Taking a step-by-step approach to collecting information
  • Helping technologists and engineers
  • Staying current with emerging technologies in the computer industry

In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2016 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups. If there are multiple related NOC groups, select a NOC heading to learn about each one.

Top 10 Skills Employers Are Looking For

Electronic service technicians (household and business equipment)

2016 NOC: 2242

This chart shows which job skills are currently in highest demand for this occupational group. It was created using this occupation's 160 most recent Alberta job postings, collected between Aug 23, 2023 and Oct 15, 2024.

Review these skills to learn:

  • Whether or not this occupation matches your skill set
  • What training you may need to get these skills
  • What skills to highlight in your resumé, cover letter, and interview.
Tasks: Inspect and test electronic equipment and assemblies
Tasks: Complete work orders, test and maintenance reports
Tasks: Adjust, align, replace or repair electronic equipment and assemblies
Tasks: Diagnose and locate circuit, component and equipment faults
Attention to detail
Tasks: Prepare cost estimates
Experience: 1 year to less than 2 years
Organized
Client focus
Team player
Educational Requirements
Updated Apr 07, 2022
  • Minimum Education Varies

Computer service technicians need at least a high school diploma. They also need related training or experience. Employers often prefer applicants with related post-secondary education and certification.

Advancement may require a related 2-year diploma or equivalent. To learn more about 2-year programs, see the Computer Network Administrator and Computer Programmer occupational profiles.

There are many post-secondary programs in this field. If a career as a computer service technician interests you, talk to potential employers about training options before starting a training program. Many employers provide ongoing training opportunities, both in the classroom and on the job, to help computer service technicians keep up to date with rapidly changing technology.

Related Education

The following schools offer programs or courses that are related to this occupation but are not required to enter the field.

Academy of Learning - Calgary Central
Academy of Learning - Edmonton Downtown
Academy of Learning - Edmonton South
Academy of Learning - Red Deer
Alberta Educational Centre
Bow Valley College
Cambrooks College - Downtown Campus
CDI College of Business, Technology and Health Care - Calgary South
CDI College of Business, Technology and Health Care - Edmonton City Centre
CDI College of Business, Technology and Health Care - Edmonton South
CDI College of Business, Technology and Health Care - Edmonton West
Cypress College - Medicine Hat
Robertson College - Calgary
Robertson College - Edmonton

To expand or narrow your program options, visit Post-Secondary Programs and start your search with:

Completing a program does not guarantee entrance into an occupation. Before enrolling in an education program, prospective students should look into various sources for education options and employment possibilities. For example, contact associations and employers in this field.

Certification Requirements
Updated Apr 07, 2022
  • Certification Provincially Regulated

CompTIA A+ certification is considered an industry standard. It offers theory and practical knowledge. It teaches technicians how to solve problems. Most employers require it.

Candidates must pass an exam to become certified. They can prepare through self-study and experience or take courses that lead to certification. These are available at many colleges.

Certain professional titles or duties within this occupation are protected by provincial legislation. Requirements vary if you use these titles or perform these duties.

The related legislation is shown below. If there are multiple related legislations, select a certification heading to learn about each one.

Information Systems Professional

Information systems professionals investigate, analyze, design, develop, or manage information systems based on computer and related technologies. They do so objectively applying specialized knowledge and professional judgement.

Legislation

Information Systems Professional is a protected title under Alberta’s Professional and Occupational Associations Registration Act [pdf]. This means that to call yourself an Information Systems Professional or use the I.S.P. designation, you must be a registered member of the Canadian Information Processing Society of Alberta (CIPS Alberta).

You do not have to be registered if you do not call yourself an Information Systems Professional.

For information on what you need and other details, visit the certification profile Information Systems Professional.

Employment & Advancement
Updated Apr 07, 2022

Computer service technicians work for:

  • Companies that make computers
  • Computer retail sales and maintenance companies
  • IT consulting firms
  • Companies that sell and service computers
  • Medium to large companies
  • Government departments

Experienced computer service technicians may become supervisors or managers. With further training, they can become technical specialists who help computer engineers design equipment.

Industry Concentration

This section shows the industries where the majority of people in this occupation work. The data is based on the 2016 Census.

In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2016 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups.

Electronic service technicians (household and business equipment)
2016 NOC: 2242

75.7% of people in this occupational group work in:

NOC groups often include several related occupations. Although there is labour market data for the larger NOC group, this occupation makes up only a part of that group. It means data for this occupation may be different than the data shown. For examples, see Note.

3-Year Job Market Forecast

This section shows the short-term demand forecasted for this occupation in Alberta over a 3-year period. It also shows the number of people employed in the occupation.

In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2021 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups.

Electronic service technicians (household and business equipment)
2021 NOC: 22311
Lower
Demand
5,300
Employed

Source: 2023-2025 Alberta Short-Term Employment Forecast

NOC groups often include several related occupations. Although there is labour market data for the larger NOC group, this occupation makes up only a part of that group. It means data for this occupation may be different than the data shown. For examples, see Note.

To see data for all occupations, visit Occupations in Demand.

5-Year Job Market Forecast

This section shows the employment outlook for this occupation in Alberta over a 5-year period.

Employment outlook is influenced by a wide variety of factors including:

  • Time of year (for seasonal jobs)
  • Location in Alberta
  • Employment turnover (when people leave existing positions)
  • Occupational growth (when new positions are created)
  • Size of the occupation
  • Trends and events that affect overall employment, especially in the industry or industries from the previous list

In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2016 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups.

Electronic service technicians (household and business equipment)
2016 NOC: 2242
2.4%
Annual Growth
(Average)
170
New Positions

Source: 2021-2025 Alberta Regional Occupational Demand Outlook

Annual growth is from 2021 to 2025. New positions created each year are in addition to job openings created by employment turnover.

NOC groups often include several related occupations. Although there is labour market data for the larger NOC group, this occupation makes up only a part of that group. It means data for this occupation may be different than the data shown. For examples, see Note.

Employment turnover is expected to increase as members of the baby boom generation retire over the next few years.

Related Alberta Job Postings
Wage & Salary
Updated Apr 07, 2022

Earnings vary a lot. The type of employer and what qualifications and duties the employee has will have an impact on earnings.

In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2016 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups. If there are multiple related NOC groups, select a NOC heading to learn about each one.

Electronic service technicians (household and business equipment)

2016 NOC: 2242
Average Wage
$31.85
Per Hour
Average Salary
$65,450.00
Per Year
Average Hours
39.5
Per Week
Average Months on Payroll
12
Survey Methodology Survey Analysis

Source
2021 Alberta Wage and Salary Survey

NOC 2242 Wage Profile

Unless otherwise noted, the data shown here is for all industries and all regions in Alberta.

All wage estimates are hourly except where otherwise indicated. Wages and salaries do not include overtime hours, tips, benefits, profit shares, bonuses (unrelated to production), and other forms of compensation.

To see the full survey data for this NOC group, visit the wage profile.

Other wage sources
To make an informed wage and salary decision, research other wage sources [pdf] to supplement this data.

B: Good Reliability
Data Reliability Code Definition

Good Reliability, represents a CV of between 6.01% and 15.00% and/or fewer than 30 survey observations and/or if survey observations represent less than 50% of all estimated employment for the occupation.


Hourly Wage

For full-time and part-time employees
  • Low
  • High
  • Average
  • Median
Starting
Overall
Top

Hourly Wage

For full-time and part-time employees
Wages* Low (5th percentile) High (95th percentile) Average Median
Starting $18.00 $33.65 $23.72 $21.03
Overall $20.00 $53.87 $31.85 $28.85
Top $25.00 $74.52 $47.69 $45.67

Swipe left and right to view all data. Scroll left and right to view all data.

* All wage estimates are hourly except where otherwise indicated. Wages and salaries do not include overtime hours, tips, benefits, profit shares, bonuses (unrelated to production) and other forms of compensation.

Pay brackets for hourly wages

  • Starting pay: average pay offered for entry-level positions
  • Overall pay: average pay across all employees in this occupation
  • Top pay: average pay offered to top-paid employees

Industry Information

ALL INDUSTRIES
Wholesale Trade
Retail Trade
Professional, Scientific & Technical Services

Skills Shortage

Employers that Recruited in the Last 2 Years
42%
42%)
Recruiting Employers that Experienced Hiring Difficulties
13%
13%
Employers with Unfilled Vacancies of over 4 Months
3%
3%
Vacancy Rate
1%
Related Post-Secondary Field of Study
  • Computer and Information Technology
Other Sources of Information
Updated Apr 07, 2022

Association of Science and Engineering Technology Professionals of Alberta (ASET) website: www.aset.ab.ca

Canadian Information Processing Society (CIPS) of Alberta website: ab.cips.ca

Get information and referrals about career, education, and employment options from Alberta Supports.

Updated Mar 31, 2022. The information contained in this profile is current as of the dates shown. Salary, employment outlook, and educational program information may change without notice. It is advised that you confirm this information before making any career decisions.

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