Network Support Technician Job Description, Duties, and Responsibilities

This post provides detailed information on the network support technician job description, including duties, tasks, and responsibilities.

It also highlights the major requirements that you may be expected to fulfill to be hired for the network support technician role.

What Does a Network Support Technician Do?

A network support technician is an IT expert who undertakes tasks related to network development and maintenance of well-functioning network systems to help the business operate smoothly.

They work in different sectors of the economy where they are needed for optimal functioning of computer systems and networks.

The network support technician job description entails maintaining and troubleshooting computer network hardware issues to identify and rectify problems, as well as provide technical support and guidance to employees.

Their scope of work ranges from Local Area Networks (LANs) to Wide Area Networks (WANs) and Internet Service Provider (ISP) networks.

They design and install computer networks that best suits the company’s business goals and daily operations. They regularly check connections and cables; and conduct testing to ensure that devices are working optimally

Their role also involves inspecting system failures to identify the problem and highlight any bottlenecks that could impede the network.

They ensure that the network and infrastructure function optimally, and resolve any problems or bugs that have been identified.

In addition to maintaining or repairing hardware and devices when issues arise, the network support technician’s work description also entails testing software to configure it correctly.

They perform regular tests and data backups throughout the year to ensure the system works efficiently at all times, as well as to protect the company’s data

They regularly organize, schedule, and plan system maintenance to ensure everything is running as it should without interrupting daily workflow.

They are also responsible for conducting assessment on the network’s performance to see if it can be improved upon.

To work as a network support technician, you must be tech savvy and enjoy working with computers.

You should also possess excellent troubleshooting skills, as well as solid knowledge of networks and computer systems.

Basically, employers prefer a Bachelor’s degree in a computer-related subjects, as well as hands-on experience using various computer software tools.

However, some recruiters may require applicants to have a HS Diploma and a combination of experience and certifications.

Network Support Technician Job Description Example/Sample/Template

Network support technicians perform various functions with respect to the maintenance of computer hardware network, troubleshooting, and resolution; these duties will vary depending on the needs of the organization they work for.

The network support technician job description is typically defined by the following tasks, duties, and responsibilities:

• Perform regular network assessment to avoid interruption in workflow
• Utilize various channels of communication to provide technical support to clients
• Ensure that security software is properly installed on employees’ computers and partner with the IT team to achieve this
• Manage network hardware including switches, Routers, Fiber Optics, and Wireless Networks
• Troubleshoot system failures to identify the bottlenecks: Network Usage and Load, Network Range, and Wireless Network Interference that could slow down the network
• Troubleshoot hardware failures and server software issues to identify the root cause of the problem and make repairs; and perform scheduled updates to increase productivity
• Oversee all identified systems and services using approved tools
• Administer, issue, and maintain user accounts, distribution/security groups, and passwords; and also provides mobile support such as: password reset, activation, and troubleshooting, etc.
• Provide installation maintenance, queue management, and configuration support of direct connect and network based single purpose and multifunction peripherals
• Conduct fault isolation and resolution of network problems, including cable, workstation, peripherals, and other hardware
• Perform basic maintenance and minor repairs on hardware and peripherals
• Follow prescribed policy and procedures in providing data transfers between classified and unclassified networks
• Track, maintain, and distribute a stock of consumables and equipment cleaning supplies such as toners, ink, CD-Rs, DVDs, etc. for IT equipment as identified by On-Site or Lead Manager
• Guarantee technical safeguards are maintained to deliver controlled user access, integrity of electronic mail, applications, and user data
• Document processes and procedures applied in the research, assessment, troubleshooting, testing, and resolving support incidents
• Perform maintenance on servers and network services
• Support project/task execution by assisting and coordinating with all support tiers as necessary or with any escalated user requests or incidents.

Network Support Technician Requirements – Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities for Career Success

When seeking to work as a support technician in a network environment, employers will commonly expect prospective applicants to meet certain requirements to qualify to access the job.

The requirements include relevant qualities, skills, knowledge, abilities, experience, and educational background that will enable applicants to carry out the objectives, purpose, and obligations of the network support technician role effectively and have a successful career if hired.

Shown below are major requirements you may have to meet to access the network support technician position in most companies:

• Education: A minimum of Associate Degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or equivalent degree
• Certifications: Network support technicians may be required to have one or more of the following certifications: Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA); Juniper Networks Certified Internetwork Associate (JNCIA); CompTIA A+ Technician; CompTIA Network+ may be required; Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE) may be required; Antivirus/Anti Malware (WebRoot) Certifications a plus; CompTia Security+ CE, CCNA-Security, or GSEC in good standing (IAT-II or higher); and Current computing environment certification; and Ex. Microsoft MCSA/MCSE
• Computer knowledge: Network support technicians must possess knowledge of different computer software and hardware functions and have extensive familiarity with PCs; they must be abreast with the latest trends and advances in computer technology. They must also possess a basic understanding of computer network cabling and a solid background in server management, software installation, and upgrades
• Knowledge of Microsoft Windows 7 and newer versions, Microsoft Office 2010 and newer, Active Directory, Hosted Exchange 2010/2016, Office 365, G-Suite y band, and other email platforms
• Knowledge of Firewalls/Routers; LANs, WANs, and VPNs may be required
• Analytical thinking: This skill is basic for a network support technician; they utilize a diagnostic and analytic approach in identifying the root cause of system errors and issues that may not be immediately obvious at a surface glance
• Problem-solving skills: Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting abilities are important to the network support technician as they are responsible for identifying and devising solutions to various computer related problems and network issues to increase productivity and reduce downtime
• Effective communication skills: They require communication skills to be able to appropriately communicate complex technological information and solutions in a simple and understandable manner to laypeople
• Writing skills: They require good writing skills to perform an aspect of their job that requires them to write technical guidelines and compose email responses to queries
• Customer service skills: They must possess a service orientation and excellent customer service skills to provide technical support and customer support functions.

Conclusion:

To effectively hire for the position of network support technician in their companies, employers can apply the information about the duties and responsibilities of the role, as well as the sample job description provided in this post in creating a comprehensive description of the position.

By publishing a detailed description of the available network support technician position, recruiters can improve their chances of attracting the best candidates for the offer.

Also, the information contained in this article is useful to individuals interested in becoming a network support technician.

They will be able to learn in detail about what network support technicians do, and the requirements for being hired and succeeding in the career.