IT Specialist vs. IT Technician: What Are the Differences?
Learn about the two careers and review some of the similarities and differences between them.
A career in information technology (IT) can be both rewarding and challenging. IT specialists and IT technicians are two common roles in this field, and though they share some similarities, there are several key differences between them.
In this article, we discuss the differences between an IT specialist and an IT technician, and we provide additional IT-related professions you may be interested in pursuing.
What is an IT Specialist?
IT specialists are responsible for the installation, maintenance and repair of computer hardware and software systems. They work in a variety of settings, including corporate IT departments, government agencies and small businesses. IT specialists typically have a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field. They must be able to troubleshoot technical problems and have strong customer service skills. IT specialists typically work Monday through Friday during regular business hours, but they may be on call for after-hours support.
What is an IT Technician?
IT Technicians are responsible for maintaining and repairing computer hardware and software systems. They install and configure computer systems, diagnose technical issues and provide support to users. IT Technicians may work in a variety of settings, including corporate IT departments, small businesses, government agencies or educational institutions. They typically work during regular business hours, but may be on call 24/7 to respond to emergencies. IT Technicians typically have an associate’s degree in computer science or a related field, and many also hold certifications from major vendors such as Microsoft, Cisco or CompTIA.
IT Specialist vs. IT Technician
Here are the main differences between an IT specialist and an IT technician.
Job Duties
One of the biggest differences between IT specialists and IT technicians is the type of duties they perform. An IT specialist typically performs higher-level tasks that require a greater level of expertise, while an IT technician handles lower-level tasks. For example, an IT technician might troubleshoot issues with computer hardware, such as replacing malfunctioning parts or helping users understand how to use specific hardware devices. In contrast, an IT specialist might plan and implement new IT systems for a company, such as designing and installing new servers or evaluating and upgrading existing systems.
Job Requirements
IT specialists and IT technicians typically need at least an associate degree in computer science or a related field. Some employers may prefer candidates with a bachelor’s degree, but it is not always required. Additionally, many IT professionals pursue certifications to show that they have the skills needed to perform their job duties. For example, the CompTIA A+ certification is a common certification for entry-level IT positions.
Work Environment
It professionals and technicians work in different environments. It professionals typically work in an office setting, where they can collaborate with other employees to solve problems for clients or customers. They may also travel to client sites to provide support when needed.
It technicians usually work in a more technical environment, such as a data center or computer repair shop. They often work alone, but they may have opportunities to collaborate with other technicians on projects.
Skills
Both IT specialists and IT technicians use technical skills to perform their jobs. However, IT specialists typically have more advanced technical skills than IT technicians. For example, an IT specialist might be responsible for developing and implementing software solutions, while an IT technician might be responsible for providing customer support or troubleshooting issues with existing software.
Both IT specialists and IT technicians need to have strong problem-solving skills. This is because they often are tasked with resolving complex technical issues. They also both need to be able to communicate effectively, as they often work with customers or other team members who do not have the same level of technical expertise.
Organization and time management skills also are important for both IT specialists and IT technicians. This is because they often work on multiple projects at the same time and need to be able to keep track of deadlines and priorities. Additionally, both IT specialists and IT technicians need to be able to stay up-to-date on new technology developments and trends in order to perform their jobs effectively.
Salary
IT specialists can earn an average salary of $67,205 per year, while IT technicians can earn an average salary of $57,780 per year. Both of these salaries may vary depending on the size of the company at which you work, location of your job and the level of experience you have prior to pursuing either position.