What is an Information Systems Technician?

An information systems technician is employed by a business, the military, or a government office to administer and support an organization's computer networks and information systems. Job responsibilities of an individual hired as an information systems technician include computer desktop support services, server administration, and telecommunications system maintenance. Information systems technicians are usually required to have obtained at least an associates degree in information technology or a related subject before being hired, or to have years of experience working within the field.

Computer information technicians install and maintain the software and hardware necessary for the operation of a company's computer network. Telecommunications equipment, such as phone and voice-mail systems, are also usually operated and managed by a system technician. This includes the installation of wiring and cabling for computer and phone systems as well as repair of these systems should issues occur. A company's email servers are also typically managed by an information technician.

Offering computer use support and troubleshooting computer issues reported by staff and system users are the main computer desktop services an information systems technician is usually responsible for. In some situations, an information technician also provides technical support to a company's clients and customers who use the organization's information systems network. This part of an information system technician's job requires teamwork and customer service capabilities. In addition to helping customers and fellow employees solve computer problems, an information technician may also hold training classes for staff to educate others on computer and software use. Situations where this occurs include the introduction of new equipment, changes to familiar software, or the use of a new computer operating system.

In addition to providing support and training services, an information systems technician administers a company's computer network system. Job responsibilities involve installing and maintaining server and computer operating systems. System updates are managed by an information technician, as well as the consistent monitoring of network servers and system performance. The back-up and archiving of a system's data such as emails, voice-mail, and computer files is sometimes done by an information systems technician.

Places that employ systems technicians include regional government offices and branches of a country's military. An individual interested in becoming an information systems technician can obtain an associates degree in information technology at a technical school or community college. The job may require working non-standard business hours in some situations, as information systems need to be maintained around the clock.