An Information Technology Specialist or IT specialist is a professional who uses their expertise in technology to solve complex problems related to computer systems and networks. They are the backbone of any organization, ensuring that all systems function optimally.
Their role involves a wide range of tasks, from troubleshooting hardware and software issues to managing databases and securing systems.
They are also responsible for installing and configuring various IT tools and applications. Their work is crucial in maintaining the smooth operation of business processes, government functions, and healthcare services.
To excel as an IT specialist professional, you must be well-versed in the new advancements in the field. Also, you must update your knowledge and skills according to the market demand.
Whether a small business or a large-scale organization, an IT specialist ensures that all technological aspects run smoothly and seamlessly.
- There is a high demand for IT specialists.
- IT professionals can expect a decent salary hike.
- IT specialist career growth and advancement opportunities are increasing.
- IT specialists always have the option to work remotely.
- Technology is critical in every business, so job security is high.
What does an information technology specialist do?
An Information Technology Specialist provides computer support to an establishment or individual. They are also known as a Computer Professional or IT Specialist.
The role requires extensive and proactive knowledge of Information Technology, including network and systems administration, security and information, hardware and software management, troubleshooting, and more. The tasks of an IT Specialist are diverse and include monitoring, management, and analysis.
As a successful IT specialist, you will be responsible for the following tasks:
- Manage VMware servers across the network to include patches, upgrades, moves, and cloning.
- Configure network topology and make DNS records update/creation to manage devices.
- Manage the configuration and performance management of all PC systems and telecommunications.
- Provide second-tier help desk support for the U.S. Treasury web-based financial management system.
- Learn Linux troubleshooting, basic HTML, CSS, SQL, and PHP.
- Assist with data cabling and setting up LAN routers, switches, and WAP systems.
- Develop and maintain client-server applications for customer service systems utilizing Java applets accessing legacy mainframe systems.
- Develop inventory organizational structure and create product database using MySQL with a Java-based front-end ordering system.
- Fix faulty computers and printers.
- Code shopping cart functionality in PHP and JavaScript.
- Create Python scripts to clean up data feeds.
- Use web development tools such as HTML and JavaScript.
- Keep track of issues using the Remedy ticket system.
- Provide support for CITRIX users and troubleshoot problems with the server.
- Build and maintain the portal user interface with CSS.
How to become an IT specialist?
An Information Technology Specialist is a highly skilled computer science professional who is responsible for a wide range of IT tasks, including installing and updating software and hardware components, conducting tests and inspections on IT systems to ensure their efficacy and compliance with necessary standards, and ensuring that data storage and IT networks are properly secured.
They also train other staff members in using IT systems, programs, and applications, as well as educate them on security measures.
Most companies require a bachelor’s degree in a related field, such as computer science or business, to become an Information Technology Specialist.
Additionally, typical IT Specialist jobs require 1-2 years of experience in related fields. Before becoming an Information Technology Specialist, standard job titles include Technical Support Specialist, Systems Administrator, and Computer Technician.
Having a relevant IT specialist certification, such as Security 5 Certification, will add an extra layer of knowledge and skills.
What skills do you need to be an IT specialist?
Technical skills
Customer Service: Deliver outstanding customer service by managing all processes related to identifying, prioritizing, and resolving technical issues faced by end-users.
Troubleshooting: Monitor operational performance and troubleshoot system problems by isolating the root cause of system failures.
Computer System: Perform daily analysis of TCAIMS II computer and operating systems to evaluate the functionality of systems requirements and specifications.
Database: Implement data compression that reduced storage costs by 3 devices and increased database availability by rearranging application jobs.
DOD: Collect data and write requirements documents for DOD appropriations to establish and maintain a long-term and short-term technology funding plan.
System Software: Assist in Logistics computer support by diagnosing and resolving any problems related to workstation operating system software, application software, or hardware.
Other soft skills
Customer-service skills: An information technology specialist needs customer service skills to perform their duties effectively. They must be patient and sympathetic when dealing with technical issues with customers. They must also use customer service skills in their daily work.
Listening skills: Having good listening skills is a crucial skill for information technology specialists. They must be able to comprehend the problems their customers report and ask questions to clarify the situation if needed.
Problem-solving skills: Information technology specialists must possess problem-solving skills to succeed in the field. They must be able to identify and resolve both simple and complex computer problems using their analytical skills.
Speaking skills: In order to become a successful information technology specialist, you must have excellent speaking skills. You must communicate computer problem solutions in a way that a non-technical person can understand. You must also use clear and concise language when interacting with customers.
Writing skills: Information technology specialists should also have the ability to write well. They must be able to prepare instructions and email responses for employees and customers and real-time web chat interactions. They must also use proper grammar, spelling, and punctuation when writing.
Best IT specialist certifications
Security 5 Certification
The Security5 certification is offered by the EC-Council. The Security 5 certification is an entry-level certification program designed for anyone wanting to learn computer networking and security basics.
The Security5 program equips individuals with fundamental networking literacy skills to pursue advanced IT programs. To earn the Security 5 certification, candidates must have at least two years of education or relevant training is required. Apart from that, you need to renew your Security5 certification once every 3 years.
IT Information Library Foundations Certification (ITIL)
The ITIL Foundations certification course is intended for all IT service and support staff members.
The TIL Foundations certification provides a basic understanding of organizing IT service and support to align IT with business needs, enhance service quality, and reduce long-term costs. Whether implementing ITIL or working on continuous service improvement, this course will benefit you in many ways.
With this certification program, you will be able to understand the ITIL framework and its relation to the 10 foundational processes and Service Desk functions. Also, you will learn how to apply ITIL processes in any size organization and foster a common vision and language within the IT infrastructure.
Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
The Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification can be considered an entry-level certification. The Cisco CCNA certification demonstrates a foundational and novice knowledge of networking.
The CCNA-certified professionals can install, configure, and operate LAN, WAN, and dial access services for small networks (up to 100 nodes), including but not limited to the use of these protocols: IP, IGRP, Serial, Frame Relay, IP RIP, VLANs, RIP, Ethernet, Access Lists.
Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
The Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) certification is one of the well-known and well-paid credentials.
The CISSP-ISSAP requires a candidate to have 2 years of professional experience in architecture and is a suitable credential for Chief Security Architects and Analysts who may often work as independent consultants or in similar roles.
The architect plays a key role within the information security department with responsibilities that bridge the gap between the C-suite and upper managerial level and the implementation of the security program. The candidate would typically develop, design, or analyze the security plan.
Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
The Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) certification program is designed for experienced and those with information security management roles.
The CISM certification is for the professional who manages, designs, oversees, and evaluates an organization’s information security (IS). The CISM certification supports international practices and gives executive management confidence that those who earn the designation have the necessary experience and knowledge to provide effective security management and consulting services.
Cisco Certified Entry Networking Technician (CCENT)
The Cisco CCENT (Cisco Certified Entry Networking Technician) certification verifies the skills needed for entry-level network support positions, the beginning of many successful careers in networking.
To earn the Cisco CCENT certification, candidates should have the knowledge and skill to install, operate, and troubleshoot a small enterprise branch network, including basic network security.
The Cisco Certified Entry Networking Technician (CCENT) certification is the first step toward achieving CCNA, which covers medium-sized enterprise branch networks with more complex connections.
CCNP Service Provider Operations (CCNP)
The Cisco Certified Network Professional in Service Provider Operations (CCNP SP Operations) certifies the knowledge and skills needed (by a Tier II or Tier III support engineer) to troubleshoot and maintain service provider IP NGN core (PE-PE and PE-CE) network infrastructures.
With the CCNP SP Operations certification, a network professional demonstrates the ability to isolate network performance problems and implement proactive fault measures using operations.
The final say
An information technology specialist, also known as an IT specialist, is a technical professional who provides the technical needs of businesses in a world driven by technology.
As we discussed above, the IT specialist is a professional responsible for implementing, monitoring, and maintaining IT systems.
As a certified IT specialist, you can expect to work in many fields, such as network analysis, system administration, security and information assurance, IT audits, database administration, and web administration.
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