Computer Technician: What is the cost of hiring?

Why hire a computer technician?

Selecting the right candidates for the role of a computer technician requires different levels of screening. They are the backbone of the internal system security and provide company-wide technical assistance. An experienced computer technician:

• Installs the network architecture and manages the data center and the centralized server
• Ensures all the computers and laptops are wired with security software, including a firewall, and monitors them closely
• Sets up, configures, maintains and repairs hardware, software, computers and other peripheral devices

Deciding between a full-time vs freelance computer technician

When trying to attract new candidates for a computer technician job, assess whether you need a full-time or freelance computer technician.

In an office environment, such as a software company, a full-time computer technician handles on-site technical problems while working alongside sales, customer service and other departments. Full-time computer technicians are routinely available for in-person assistance.

Freelance computer technicians work from a business office or travel to the customer’s location to fix hardware and software issues. Many freelancers temporarily fill work gaps for understaffed in-house technical support. A freelance computer technician’s services might include installing new hardware, standardizing software upgrades on all computers and using diagnostic tools to locate malware and viruses.

What are the types of computer technicians?

When you’re looking for a computer technician, it’s important to understand the types of roles in a technology company. Many companies are separated into executive, administrative and operational roles; computer technicians fall into the last category. Looking at the operational level, here are some common types of computer technicians:

• Desktop technicians: A desktop or help desk technician maintains the company’s computer infrastructure and troubleshoots IT issues. This job often requires coordinating with others in operational, administrative and executive roles (e.g., software engineer, network administrator, chief information officer).
• Retail computer repair technicians: Common in electronics retail stores, this job involves repairing and maintaining computers and various related technology brought in by customers. Other duties include setting up customers’ new computers, installing and updating software and building home networks.
• IT consultants: Experienced professionals offering on-call computer repair services on an hourly fixed cost or per project.

Where to find computer technicians

To find the right computer technician for your business, consider trying out a few different recruiting strategies:

• Career fairs: Many colleges and technical schools invite employers to recruit new talent from their student body, including computer science students. If you’re looking to fill entry-level positions, career fairs offer a good opportunity to connect with job seekers.
• Network: With prepared materials (e.g., business cards, flyers), attend industry events and conferences to let others know you’re hiring.
• Ask members of the tech community: Talk to others in the tech industry to find out where they sourced their employees, making sure to keep a line of communication open in case suitable applicants crop up.
• Post your job online: Try posting your computer technician job on Indeed to find and attract quality computer technician candidates.

Skills to look for in a great Computer Technician

Computer Technicians manage internal company information. To find an efficient and organized Computer Technician for your company, let’s see which qualifications and work experience are essential. Computer Technicians are responsible for end to end management of server, system security, network and all technological devices. Let’s look at the qualifications and traits to hire such an all-rounder.

• BS or BA in Computer Science, engineering or technology
• Relevant certification like CompTIA A+
• Prior Experience in a similar profile
• Excellent organizational and other time management skills
• Effective interpersonal skills
• Troubleshooting abilities and time management skills

Writing a computer technician job description

A comprehensive job description makes it easier to find and select the right computer technician candidates. A brief description of roles and responsibilities, along with detailed job duties and essential skill sets, should be included in the job description.

When writing your computer technician job description, consider including some or all of the following keywords to improve the visibility of your job postings. These are the most popular search terms leading to clicks on computer technician jobs, according to Indeed data:

• IT
• Computer technician
• Information technology
• Computer
• Computer repair
• IT support
• IT technician
• Desktop support
• Technical support
• Computer repair technician
• Senior computer technician

Interviewing computer technician candidates

Computer technicians should be hired based on thorough profile screenings and relevant questions. Testing their theoretical and practical knowledge with targeted interview questions helps the hiring manager find a great match. A qualified computer technician:

• Has knowledge in networking and technical component management
• Explains past situations where they were instrumental in successful troubleshooting, ensuring smooth functioning of computer operations
• Understands how end users get trained to utilize computers properly

Need help coming up with interview questions? See our list of computer technician interview questions for examples (with sample answers).