An IT Support Specialist helps individuals and organisations with their computer systems and software. This can involve installing and configuring hardware and software, troubleshooting technical issues, maintaining networks, and providing direct support to users either in person, over the phone, or via online chat. IT Support Specialists are essential in nearly every industry, as they keep technology running smoothly and help staff resolve problems quickly. The role often requires strong communication skills, patience, and a logical approach to problem-solving. Many IT Support Specialists progress into more advanced IT roles after gaining experience.
Entry-level IT Support Specialists in the UK typically earn between £18,000 and £24,000 per year, while experienced professionals can earn up to £35,000 or more.
There are around 30,000 job postings each year for IT support roles across the UK, with demand especially high in major cities like London, Manchester, and Birmingham.
Most IT Support Specialists work 37 to 40 hours per week, but some roles may require shift work or on-call hours, especially in organisations offering 24/7 support.
Provides first-line technical support for computer users, troubleshooting issues and guiding them through solutions over the phone, by email, or in person.
Focuses on maintaining and repairing desktop computers, laptops, and peripheral equipment within an organisation, often working directly with staff at their desks.
Works within a service desk team, managing and resolving IT service requests and incidents using specialised software and following set procedures.
Choose ICT or Computer Science subjects at GCSE and A-level, or pursue a Level 2 or 3 IT-related vocational qualification.
Studying ICT or Computer Science at school provides a solid grounding in basic computing concepts, problem-solving, and digital literacy. Vocational qualifications, such as BTEC IT, offer practical skills relevant to the workplace and can be a good alternative to academic routes.
Familiarise yourself with common operating systems, Microsoft Office, basic networking, and troubleshooting hardware issues.
You can gain these skills through online courses, volunteering, or helping friends and family with their computers. Platforms like LinkedIn Learning or free resources like BBC Bitesize can be useful for beginners.
Work towards entry-level certifications such as CompTIA IT Fundamentals, CompTIA A+, or Microsoft Certified: Fundamentals.
Certifications demonstrate your expertise to employers and can set you apart from other candidates. CompTIA A+ is highly regarded for IT support roles and covers a broad range of foundational IT knowledge.
Seek work experience, internships, or part-time roles in IT support, either at school, through local businesses, or volunteering.
Hands-on experience is highly valued. You might help with IT issues at your school, local library, or community centre, or apply for entry-level jobs such as IT Helpdesk Assistant.
Look for jobs such as IT Support Technician, Service Desk Analyst, or Helpdesk Support in a variety of organisations.
You can find vacancies on job sites like Indeed, Reed, or the National Careers Service. Tailor your CV to highlight your technical skills, qualifications, and experience, and prepare for interviews focused on problem-solving and communication.
Stay updated with new technologies and consider further certifications or specialisations such as networking or cybersecurity.
The IT field changes quickly, so ongoing learning is important. Advanced certifications like CompTIA Network+, Microsoft 365, or Cisco CCNA can help you progress to more specialised roles or higher levels of responsibility.
Network Engineers design, implement, and maintain computer networks within an organisation, ensuring reliable connectivity and security.
Systems Administrators are responsible for the upkeep, configuration, and reliable operation of computer systems and servers.
IT Technicians provide hands-on technical support for hardware and software, similar to IT Support Specialists, but may also be involved in equipment setup and maintenance.
Explore relevant apprenticeships that can help you kickstart your career in IT Support Specialist. Apprenticeships offer hands-on experience and training while earning a wage.
This page showcases various career options and the pathways to reach them. Each career listed here shares transferable skills and knowledge, making it easier for individuals to transition between them.
Your current career is highlighted to help you see how it fits into the broader landscape of potential career choices. By clicking on any career, you can learn more about it, including the training and education required to pursue it.
Remember, progressing in your career often involves further learning and training. This page provides insights into future career options as well as those that can lead up to your current one.
These career progression decisions are informed by comparing the skills and knowledge needed for different occupations, along with data on how people move between them. Explore the possibilities and discover the exciting journey ahead in your career!
An IT Support Specialist and an IT support technician both provide technical assistance and troubleshoot hardware and software issues. They require similar skills in customer service, problem-solving, and technical knowledge, making them closely aligned in terms of qualifications and job functions.
You can get into this job through:
You could take a college course in computing, computer science or IT support. Courses like these may help you to get a trainee position with an organisation.
Other relevant courses include:
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T Level
You may be able to apply for a Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship, such as:
These apprenticeships take up to 2 years to complete. They combine on-the-job training and time spent with a college or learning provider.
You'll usually need:
You could start as a trainee technician with an organisation and do IT support qualifications while you work. You'll usually need some IT skills and knowledge to get a trainee job.
You may find it helpful to get some industry standard training for administrator and support technician roles. This can be done through organisations like:
You can find out more about working in IT support from techskills and The Chartered Institute for IT.
Explore other careers or use our AI to discover personalised paths based on your interests.
Address
Developing Experts Limited
Exchange Street Buildings
35-37 Exchange Street
Norwich
NR2 1DP
UK
Phone
01603 273515
Email
[email protected]
Copyright 2025 Developing Experts, All rights reserved.
Unlock expert-designed lessons, resources, and assessments tailored for educators. No credit card required.
Claim Your Free Trial →
