Computer and Office Equipment Technician
Overview
Computer and office equipment technicians are the problem-solvers who keep businesses running by fixing and maintaining computers, printers, ATMs, and other electronic office machines. They travel to different locations to diagnose issues, talk with customers to understand problems, and use both hand tools and advanced diagnostic software to repair equipment. This hands-on career combines technical skills with customer service, offering variety through different work environments and the satisfaction of solving complex technical puzzles. Many technicians work independently or for service companies, enjoying flexible schedules and the opportunity to work with cutting-edge technology.
Did you know?
Many American employers prefer candidates with industry certifications such as CompTIA A+, manufacturer-specific certifications, or specialized repair credentials.
At a Glance
Median Wage
$47,725.80 Avg/yr
Growth
Stable
Top Skill
Programming
Key Responsibilities
- Operate machines to test functioning of parts or mechanisms.
- Repair, adjust, or replace electrical or mechanical components or parts, using hand tools, power tools, or soldering or welding equipment.
- Travel to customers' stores or offices to service machines or to provide emergency repair service.
- Fill machines with toners, inks, or other duplicating fluids.
- Update existing equipment, performing tasks such as installing updated circuit boards or additional memory.
- Maintain records of equipment maintenance work or repairs.
- Analyze equipment performance records to assess equipment functioning.
- Advise customers concerning equipment operation, maintenance, or programming.
- Enter information into computers to copy programs from one electronic component to another or to draw, modify, or store schematics.
- Align, adjust, or calibrate equipment according to specifications.
- Clean, oil, or adjust mechanical parts to maintain machines' operating efficiency and to prevent breakdowns.
- Assemble machines according to specifications, using hand or power tools and measuring devices.
- Maintain parts inventories and order any additional parts needed for repairs.
- Disassemble machines to examine parts, such as wires, gears, or bearings for wear or defects, using hand or power tools and measuring devices.
- Calibrate testing instruments.
- Test components or circuits of faulty equipment to locate defects, using oscilloscopes, signal generators, ammeters, voltmeters, or special diagnostic software programs.
- Reinstall software programs or adjust settings on existing software to fix machine malfunctions.
- Read specifications, such as blueprints, charts, or schematics, to determine machine settings or adjustments.
- Converse with customers to determine details of equipment problems.
- Reassemble machines after making repairs or replacing parts.
- Install and configure new equipment, including operating software or peripheral equipment.
- Train new repairers.
- Complete repair bills, shop records, time cards, or expense reports.
- Test new systems to ensure that they are in working order.
- Lay cable and hook up electrical connections between machines, power sources, and phone lines.
Career Considerations
Certification Requirements
Many American employers prefer candidates with industry certifications such as CompTIA A+, manufacturer-specific certifications, or specialized repair credentials.
Continuous Learning Necessity
The rapid pace of technological advancement in the US market requires ongoing education and skill development to stay current with new devices and repair techniques.
Customer Service Skills
Strong communication abilities are essential for explaining technical issues to customers and building trust in service-oriented repair environments.