Computer Support Specialists

Job Zone

Job Zone Four: Considerable Preparation Needed

Most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not.

Job Zones group occupations into one of five categories based on the education, experience, and training typically needed to perform them.

O’NET publishes details below this occupation’s level. Showing Computer Network Support Specialists — one of 2 occupations here: Computer Network Support Specialists, Computer User Support Specialists.

Tasks

Specific duties and responsibilities regularly performed in this occupation.

Back up network data.86
Configure security settings or access permissions for groups or individuals.84
Analyze and report computer network security breaches or attempted breaches.82
Identify the causes of networking problems, using diagnostic testing software and equipment.80
Document network support activities.77
Configure wide area network (WAN) or local area network (LAN) routers or related equipment.76
Install network software, including security or firewall software.76
Troubleshoot network or connectivity problems for users or user groups.74
Provide telephone support related to networking or connectivity issues.74
Evaluate local area network (LAN) or wide area network (WAN) performance data to ensure sufficient availability or speed, to identify network problems, or for disaster recovery purposes.74
Analyze network data to determine network usage, disk space availability, or server function.74
Perform routine maintenance or standard repairs to networking components or equipment.73

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Configure and define parameters for installation or testing of local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), hubs, routers, switches, controllers, multiplexers, or related networking equipment.72
Install new hardware or software systems or components, ensuring integration with existing network systems.72
Test computer software or hardware, using standard diagnostic testing equipment and procedures.67
Install or repair network cables, including fiber optic cables.67
Monitor industry Web sites or publications for information about patches, releases, viruses, or potential problem identification.67
Create or update technical documentation for network installations or changes to existing installations.65
Train users in procedures related to network applications software or related systems.65
Test repaired items to ensure proper operation.64
Install and configure wireless networking equipment.63
Maintain logs of network activity.61
Document help desk requests and resolutions.61
Research hardware or software products to meet technical networking or security needs.59
Create or revise user instructions, procedures, or manuals.57
Run monthly network reports.51

Skills

Developed capacities that facilitate learning or the more rapid acquisition of knowledge.

Critical Thinking69
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
Active Listening63
Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Judgment and Decision Making60
Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
Reading Comprehension60
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
Active Learning56
Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
Complex Problem Solving56
Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
Monitoring56
Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
Speaking56
Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Systems Analysis53
Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes.
Troubleshooting53
Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.
Operations Monitoring50
Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
Systems Evaluation50
Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed to improve or correct performance, relative to the goals of the system.

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Time Management50
Managing one's own time and the time of others.
Writing50
Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
Quality Control Analysis47
Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.
Repairing47
Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.
Social Perceptiveness47
Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.
Coordination44
Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
Installation44
Installing equipment, machines, wiring, or programs to meet specifications.
Equipment Maintenance41
Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind of maintenance is needed.
Instructing41
Teaching others how to do something.
Learning Strategies41
Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate for the situation when learning or teaching new things.
Equipment Selection38
Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job.
Service Orientation38
Actively looking for ways to help people.
Management of Personnel Resources31
Motivating, developing, and directing people as they work, identifying the best people for the job.
Negotiation31
Bringing others together and trying to reconcile differences.
Persuasion31
Persuading others to change their minds or behavior.
Programming31
Writing computer programs for various purposes.
Mathematics28
Using mathematics to solve problems.
Technology Design28
Generating or adapting equipment and technology to serve user needs.
Management of Material Resources25
Obtaining and seeing to the appropriate use of equipment, facilities, and materials needed to do certain work.
Operation and Control25
Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
Operations Analysis22
Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design.
Science22
Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
Management of Financial Resources13
Determining how money will be spent to get the work done, and accounting for these expenditures.

Knowledge

Organized sets of principles and facts that apply in general domains.

Computers and Electronics99
Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
Telecommunications70
Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of telecommunications systems.
Customer and Personal Service61
Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
Engineering and Technology60
Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
English Language58
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, and rules of composition and grammar.
Administration and Management53
Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.
Communications and Media50
Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and methods. This includes alternative ways to inform and entertain via written, oral, and visual media.
Education and Training49
Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
Administrative48
Knowledge of administrative and office procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, stenography and transcription, designing forms, and workplace terminology.
Design41
Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
Production and Processing40
Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
Public Safety and Security38
Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.

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Mathematics36
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
Mechanical30
Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
Personnel and Human Resources24
Knowledge of principles and procedures for personnel recruitment, selection, training, compensation and benefits, labor relations and negotiation, and personnel information systems.
Law and Government23
Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulations, executive orders, agency rules, and the democratic political process.
Psychology21
Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, personality, and interests; learning and motivation; psychological research methods; and the assessment and treatment of behavioral and affective disorders.
Economics and Accounting20
Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, the financial markets, banking, and the analysis and reporting of financial data.
Building and Construction16
Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads.
Geography9
Knowledge of principles and methods for describing the features of land, sea, and air masses, including their physical characteristics, locations, interrelationships, and distribution of plant, animal, and human life.
Sales and Marketing9
Knowledge of principles and methods for showing, promoting, and selling products or services. This includes marketing strategy and tactics, product demonstration, sales techniques, and sales control systems.
Foreign Language7
Knowledge of the structure and content of a foreign (non-English) language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition and grammar, and pronunciation.
Physics7
Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships, and applications to understanding fluid, material, and atmospheric dynamics, and mechanical, electrical, atomic and sub-atomic structures and processes.
Sociology and Anthropology6
Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human migrations, ethnicity, cultures, and their history and origins.
Chemistry4
Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances and of the chemical processes and transformations that they undergo. This includes uses of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods.
Transportation4
Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea, or road, including the relative costs and benefits.
History and Archeology3
Knowledge of historical events and their causes, indicators, and effects on civilizations and cultures.
Therapy and Counseling3
Knowledge of principles, methods, and procedures for diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of physical and mental dysfunctions, and for career counseling and guidance.
Fine Arts1
Knowledge of the theory and techniques required to compose, produce, and perform works of music, dance, visual arts, drama, and sculpture.
Philosophy and Theology1
Knowledge of different philosophical systems and religions. This includes their basic principles, values, ethics, ways of thinking, customs, practices, and their impact on human culture.
Biology0
Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interdependencies, and interactions with each other and the environment.
Food Production0
Knowledge of techniques and equipment for planting, growing, and harvesting food products (both plant and animal) for consumption, including storage/handling techniques.
Medicine and Dentistry0
Knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human injuries, diseases, and deformities. This includes symptoms, treatment alternatives, drug properties and interactions, and preventive health-care measures.

Abilities

Enduring attributes of the individual that influence performance.

Deductive Reasoning72
The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
Oral Comprehension72
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
Problem Sensitivity72
The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing that there is a problem.
Inductive Reasoning69
The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).
Oral Expression69
The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
Written Comprehension66
The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
Information Ordering63
The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according to a specific rule or set of rules (e.g., patterns of numbers, letters, words, pictures, mathematical operations).
Near Vision60
The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
Speech Clarity60
The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.
Speech Recognition60
The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person.
Written Expression60
The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand.
Selective Attention53
The ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distracted.

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Category Flexibility50
The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping things in different ways.
Finger Dexterity50
The ability to make precisely coordinated movements of the fingers of one or both hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble very small objects.
Flexibility of Closure50
The ability to identify or detect a known pattern (a figure, object, word, or sound) that is hidden in other distracting material.
Fluency of Ideas50
The ability to come up with a number of ideas about a topic (the number of ideas is important, not their quality, correctness, or creativity).
Visualization47
The ability to imagine how something will look after it is moved around or when its parts are moved or rearranged.
Far Vision44
The ability to see details at a distance.
Arm-Hand Steadiness41
The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while holding your arm and hand in one position.
Originality41
The ability to come up with unusual or clever ideas about a given topic or situation, or to develop creative ways to solve a problem.
Perceptual Speed41
The ability to quickly and accurately compare similarities and differences among sets of letters, numbers, objects, pictures, or patterns. The things to be compared may be presented at the same time or one after the other. This ability also includes comparing a presented object with a remembered object.
Speed of Closure41
The ability to quickly make sense of, combine, and organize information into meaningful patterns.
Memorization38
The ability to remember information such as words, numbers, pictures, and procedures.
Visual Color Discrimination38
The ability to match or detect differences between colors, including shades of color and brightness.
Manual Dexterity35
The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your two hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble objects.
Mathematical Reasoning35
The ability to choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a problem.
Multilimb Coordination35
The ability to coordinate two or more limbs (for example, two arms, two legs, or one leg and one arm) while sitting, standing, or lying down. It does not involve performing the activities while the whole body is in motion.
Auditory Attention31
The ability to focus on a single source of sound in the presence of other distracting sounds.
Control Precision31
The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehicle to exact positions.
Number Facility31
The ability to add, subtract, multiply, or divide quickly and correctly.
Time Sharing31
The ability to shift back and forth between two or more activities or sources of information (such as speech, sounds, touch, or other sources).
Depth Perception28
The ability to judge which of several objects is closer or farther away from you, or to judge the distance between you and an object.
Extent Flexibility25
The ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach with your body, arms, and/or legs.
Hearing Sensitivity25
The ability to detect or tell the differences between sounds that vary in pitch and loudness.
Static Strength22
The ability to exert maximum muscle force to lift, push, pull, or carry objects.
Wrist-Finger Speed10
The ability to make fast, simple, repeated movements of the fingers, hands, and wrists.
Sound Localization3
The ability to tell the direction from which a sound originated.
Spatial Orientation3
The ability to know your location in relation to the environment or to know where other objects are in relation to you.
Trunk Strength3
The ability to use your abdominal and lower back muscles to support part of the body repeatedly or continuously over time without "giving out" or fatiguing.
Dynamic Flexibility0
The ability to quickly and repeatedly bend, stretch, twist, or reach out with your body, arms, and/or legs.
Dynamic Strength0
The ability to exert muscle force repeatedly or continuously over time. This involves muscular endurance and resistance to muscle fatigue.
Explosive Strength0
The ability to use short bursts of muscle force to propel oneself (as in jumping or sprinting), or to throw an object.
Glare Sensitivity0
The ability to see objects in the presence of a glare or bright lighting.
Gross Body Coordination0
The ability to coordinate the movement of your arms, legs, and torso together when the whole body is in motion.
Gross Body Equilibrium0
The ability to keep or regain your body balance or stay upright when in an unstable position.
Night Vision0
The ability to see under low-light conditions.
Peripheral Vision0
The ability to see objects or movement of objects to one's side when the eyes are looking ahead.
Rate Control0
The ability to time your movements or the movement of a piece of equipment in anticipation of changes in the speed and/or direction of a moving object or scene.
Reaction Time0
The ability to quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to a signal (sound, light, picture) when it appears.
Response Orientation0
The ability to choose quickly between two or more movements in response to two or more different signals (lights, sounds, pictures). It includes the speed with which the correct response is started with the hand, foot, or other body part.
Speed of Limb Movement0
The ability to quickly move the arms and legs.
Stamina0
The ability to exert yourself physically over long periods of time without getting winded or out of breath.

Work Activities

General types of job behaviors occurring on multiple jobs.

Working with Computers99
Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge86
Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
Getting Information85
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates79
Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships74
Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.
Making Decisions and Solving Problems73
Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
Analyzing Data or Information71
Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
Processing Information70
Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work69
Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.
Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards64
Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.
Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings63
Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
Thinking Creatively60
Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.

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Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events59
Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others59
Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
Scheduling Work and Activities59
Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.
Documenting/Recording Information57
Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others54
Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, or otherwise negotiating with others.
Providing Consultation and Advice to Others53
Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical, systems-, or process-related topics.
Communicating with People Outside the Organization52
Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organization to customers, the public, government, and other external sources. This information can be exchanged in person, in writing, or by telephone or e-mail.
Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People52
Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.
Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials51
Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
Developing Objectives and Strategies49
Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to achieve them.
Training and Teaching Others48
Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others.
Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment45
Providing documentation, detailed instructions, drawings, or specifications to tell others about how devices, parts, equipment, or structures are to be fabricated, constructed, assembled, modified, maintained, or used.
Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment45
Servicing, repairing, calibrating, regulating, fine-tuning, or testing machines, devices, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of electrical or electronic (not mechanical) principles.
Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information43
Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resources, or materials needed to perform a work activity.
Assisting and Caring for Others42
Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other personal care to others such as coworkers, customers, or patients.
Handling and Moving Objects40
Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.
Performing Administrative Activities40
Performing day-to-day administrative tasks such as maintaining information files and processing paperwork.
Developing and Building Teams39
Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team members.
Coaching and Developing Others37
Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherwise helping others to improve their knowledge or skills.
Monitoring and Controlling Resources37
Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money.
Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others36
Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks.
Controlling Machines and Processes34
Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).
Performing General Physical Activities34
Performing general physical activities includes doing activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling materials.
Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates31
Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance standards and monitoring performance.
Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment31
Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of mechanical (not electronic) principles.
Staffing Organizational Units29
Recruiting, interviewing, selecting, hiring, and promoting employees in an organization.
Selling or Influencing Others22
Convincing others to buy merchandise/goods or to otherwise change their minds or actions.
Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment13
Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, such as forklifts, passenger vehicles, aircraft, or watercraft.
Performing for or Working Directly with the Public11
Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving customers in restaurants and stores, and receiving clients or guests.

Work Styles

Personal characteristics that can affect how well someone performs a job.

Attention to Detail90
A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work.
Dependability87
A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related obligations.
Integrity76
A tendency to be honest and ethical at work.
Cautiousness69
A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related decisions or doing work.
Intellectual Curiosity67
A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep understanding of work-related subjects.
Adaptability65
A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas at work.
Perseverance58
A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in the face of difficult circumstances or obstacles at work.
Stress Tolerance54
A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work.
Achievement Orientation53
A tendency to establish and maintain personally challenging work-related goals, set high work-related standards, and exert high effort toward meeting those goals and standards.
Cooperation48
A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work.
Initiative48
A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may fall outside of one's required work role.
Tolerance for Ambiguity44
A tendency to be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty at work.

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Innovation42
A tendency to be inventive, to be imaginative, and to adopt new perspectives on ways to accomplish work.
Self-Confidence41
A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control one's work-related outcomes.
Self-Control37
A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in response to criticism or difficult situations at work.
Social Orientation18
A tendency to seek out, enjoy, and be energized by social interaction at work.
Optimism16
A tendency to exhibit a positive attitude and positive emotions at work, even under difficult circumstances.
Sincerity13
A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, without concern for personal gain or self-interest.
Empathy8
A tendency to show concern for others and be sensitive to others' needs and feelings at work.
Humility8
A tendency to be modest and humble when interacting with others at work.

Interests (RIASEC)

Holland's six occupational interest types (RIASEC) this work tends to attract.

Conventional74
Work involves following procedures and regulations to organize information or data, typically in a business setting. Conventional occupations are often associated with office work, accounting, mathematics/statistics, information technology, finance, or human resources.
Investigative60
Work involves studying and researching non-living objects, living organisms, disease or other forms of impairment, or human behavior. Investigative occupations are often associated with physical, life, medical, or social sciences, and can be found in the fields of humanities, mathematics/statistics, information technology, or health care service.
Realistic56
Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.
Enterprising27
Work involves managing, negotiating, marketing, or selling, typically in a business setting, or leading or advising people in political and legal situations. Enterprising occupations are often associated with business initiatives, sales, marketing/advertising, finance, management/administration, professional advising, public speaking, politics, or law.
Social21
Work involves helping, teaching, advising, assisting, or providing service to others. Social occupations are often associated with social, health care, personal service, teaching/education, or religious activities.
Artistic0
Work involves creating original visual artwork, performances, written works, food, or music for a variety of media, or applying artistic principles to the design of various objects and materials. Artistic occupations are often associated with visual arts, applied arts and design, performing arts, music, creative writing, media, or culinary art.

Work Context

Physical and social factors that influence the nature of work.

E-Mail
- Every day94%
Telephone Conversations
- Every day93%
Indoors, Environmentally Controlled
- Every day84%
- Once a week or more but not every day15%
Face-to-Face Discussions with Individuals and Within Teams
- Every day80%
- Once a week or more but not every day20%
Contact With Others
- Constant contact with others79%
- Contact with others most of the time14%
Work With or Contribute to a Work Group or Team
- Extremely important68%
- Very important25%
Importance of Being Exact or Accurate
- Extremely important64%
- Very important21%
- Important13%
Determine Tasks, Priorities and Goals
- A lot of freedom39%
- Some freedom57%
Freedom to Make Decisions
- A lot of freedom49%
- Some freedom30%
- Limited freedom18%
Time Pressure
- Every day27%
- Once a week or more but not every day40%
- Once a month or more but not every week28%
Duration of Typical Work Week
- More than 40 hours46%
- 40 hours47%
Impact of Decisions on Co-workers or Company Results
- Very important results33%
- Important results38%
- Minor results27%

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Importance of Repeating Same Tasks
- Extremely important23%
- Very important32%
- Important40%
Spend Time Sitting
- Continually or almost continually24%
- More than half the time37%
- About half the time26%
- Less than half the time13%
Written Letters and Memos
- Every day29%
- Once a week or more but not every day29%
- Once a month or more but not every week30%
Deal With External Customers or the Public in General
- Extremely important35%
- Important35%
- Fairly important20%
Frequency of Decision Making
- Every day30%
- Once a week or more but not every day22%
- Once a month or more but not every week24%
- Once a year or more but not every month21%
Coordinate or Lead Others in Accomplishing Work Activities
- Extremely important18%
- Very important39%
- Important25%
- Not important at all11%
Spend Time Making Repetitive Motions
- Continually or almost continually28%
- More than half the time25%
- Less than half the time34%
Work Outcomes and Results of Other Workers
- Very high responsibility35%
- Moderate responsibility22%
- Limited responsibility31%
Consequence of Error
- Extremely serious35%
- Very serious16%
- Fairly serious36%
Physical Proximity
- Slightly close (e.g., shared office)78%
Spend Time Using Your Hands to Handle, Control, or Feel Objects, Tools, or Controls
- Continually or almost continually39%
- Less than half the time38%
- Never16%
Level of Competition
- Highly competitive36%
- Moderately competitive26%
- Not at all competitive22%
Exposed to Cramped Work Space, Awkward Positions
- Every day19%
- Once a month or more but not every week46%
- Never23%
Dealing With Unpleasant, Angry, or Discourteous People
- Once a month or more but not every week43%
- Once a year or more but not every month35%
In an Enclosed Vehicle or Operate Enclosed Equipment
- Once a week or more but not every day38%
- Once a month or more but not every week16%
- Never34%
Conflict Situations
- Once a week or more but not every day17%
- Once a month or more but not every week27%
- Once a year or more but not every month28%
- Never22%
Exposed to Sounds, Noise Levels that are Distracting or Uncomfortable
- Once a week or more but not every day22%
- Once a month or more but not every week24%
- Once a year or more but not every month26%
- Never22%
Spend Time Standing
- More than half the time13%
- About half the time26%
- Less than half the time54%
Exposed to Contaminants
- Every day13%
- Once a month or more but not every week28%
- Never43%
Health and Safety of Other Workers
- High responsibility12%
- Moderate responsibility23%
- Limited responsibility32%
- No responsibility26%
Spend Time Walking or Running
- More than half the time13%
- About half the time20%
- Less than half the time60%
Degree of Automation
- Highly automated17%
- Moderately automated19%
- Slightly automated39%
- Not at all automated25%
Indoors, Not Environmentally Controlled
- Once a month or more but not every week31%
- Once a year or more but not every month22%
- Never41%
Exposed to Extremely Bright or Inadequate Lighting Conditions
- Once a week or more but not every day16%
- Once a year or more but not every month13%
- Never57%
Public Speaking
- Once a year or more but not every month49%
- Never33%
Spend Time Kneeling, Crouching, Stooping, or Crawling
- Less than half the time67%
- Never23%
Spend Time Bending or Twisting Your Body
- About half the time16%
- Less than half the time50%
- Never33%
Exposed to Minor Burns, Cuts, Bites, or Stings
- Once a week or more but not every day15%
- Once a year or more but not every month21%
- Never57%
Pace Determined by Speed of Equipment
- Important34%
- Not important at all59%
Exposed to Disease or Infections
- Once a year or more but not every month17%
- Never70%
Outdoors, Exposed to All Weather Conditions
- Once a month or more but not every week14%
- Once a year or more but not every month23%
- Never63%
Exposed to Very Hot or Cold Temperatures
- Once a year or more but not every month27%
- Never67%
Outdoors, Under Cover
- Once a month or more but not every week12%
- Once a year or more but not every month13%
- Never73%
Work Schedules
- Irregular (changes with weather conditions, production demands, or contract duration)21%
- Regular (established routine, set schedule)79%
Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets
- Never87%
Exposed to Hazardous Equipment
- Never88%
Spend Time Keeping or Regaining Balance
- Less than half the time32%
- Never68%
Spend Time Climbing Ladders, Scaffolds, or Poles
- Less than half the time26%
- Never74%
Exposed to High Places
- Once a year or more but not every month22%
- Never77%
Exposed to Hazardous Conditions
- Never89%
Dealing with Violent or Physically Aggressive People
- Never95%
Exposed to Radiation
- Never99%
In an Open Vehicle or Operating Equipment
- Never97%
Exposed to Whole Body Vibration
- Never100%
Wear Specialized Protective or Safety Equipment such as Breathing Apparatus, Safety Harness, Full Protection Suits, or Radiation Protection
- Never99%

Typical Education Levels Reported

Education levels O*NET survey respondents in this occupation most often reported having.

Bachelor’s degree
Associate’s degree or other 2-year degree
Some college, no degree

Technology Skills

Specific software and technology tools commonly used on the job.

Operating system software
Bash, Microsoft Windows Server, Red Hat Enterprise Linux, UNIX Shell
Presentation software
Microsoft PowerPoint
Network monitoring software
Nagios, Route, WildPackets OmniPeek Network Analyzer, Wireshark
Transaction security and virus protection software
McAfee, NortonLifeLock cybersecurity software, Packet filter software, Root kit detection software
Network security or virtual private network VPN management software
Intrusion prevention system IPS, Network and system vulnerability assessment software, NIKSUN NetDetector, Sonicwall SonicOS Enhanced
Backup or archival software
EMC NetWorker, Roxio Retrospect, Tape backup system software, Veritas NetBackup
Configuration management software
Automated installation software, EMC Ionix Network Configuration Manager, Microsoft Windows Sysprep, Patch and update management software
Development environment software
Microsoft Azure software, Microsoft PowerShell, Microsoft Visual Basic, Ruby
Administration software
Cisco Systems CiscoWorks, Cisco Systems CiscoWorks LAN Management Solution, Hewlett-Packard HP Network Node Manager, ifconfig
Data base user interface and query software
Microsoft Access, Microsoft SQL Server, ServiceNow, Structured query language SQL
Electronic mail software
IBM Notes, Microsoft Exchange, Microsoft Outlook
Network security and virtual private network VPN equipment software
Firewall software, Network intrusion detection software, Virtual private networking VPN software
Data base management system software
Database management software, MySQL, Teradata Database
Object or component oriented development software
Oracle Java, Perl, Python
Project management software
Bentley Systems ProjectWise, Microsoft Project, Project planning software
Filesystem software
File server software, IBM Tivoli NetView Distribution Manager
Helpdesk or call center software
BMC Software Remedy IT Service Management Suite, Help desk software
Document management software
Adobe Acrobat, Microsoft SharePoint
Desktop communications software
Remote control software, Symantec pcAnywhere
Transaction server software
Customer information control system CICS, Microsoft Internet Information Services (IIS)
Internet directory services software
Microsoft Active Directory, Novell eDirectory
Cloud-based management software
IBM WebSphere, Splunk Enterprise
Storage networking software
EMC Symmetrix DMX, Storage area network SAN software
Web platform development software
Apache Tomcat, LAMP Stack
Spreadsheet software
Microsoft Excel
Enterprise system management software
IBM Power Systems software
Access software
Citrix cloud computing software
Clustering software
VMware
Enterprise resource planning ERP software
Microsoft Dynamics
Network operating system enhancement software
Traffic shapers
Communications server software
IBM Domino
Enterprise application integration software
BMC Software Control-M
Office suite software
Microsoft Office software
Word processing software
Microsoft Word
Computer aided design CAD software
Network design software
Internet protocol IP multimedia subsystem software
Voice over internet protocol VoIP system software
Platform interconnectivity software
Connectivity software
Cloud-based protection or security software
SolarWinds
Program testing software
Load testing software
Switch or router software
Border Gateway Protocol BGP

Professional Associations

Organizations related to this occupation, such as industry and licensing bodies.

Related Occupations

Occupations that call for similar work and worker requirements.

Detailed Work Activities

More specific, granular versions of the Work Activities above.

Create electronic data backup to prevent loss of information.
Implement security measures for computer or information systems.
Analyze security of systems, network, or data.
Resolve computer network problems.
Document network-related activities or tasks.
Configure computer networks.
Install computer software.
Test computer system operations to ensure proper functioning.
Analyze data to identify or resolve operational problems.
Monitor the performance of computer networks.
Provide technical support for computer network issues.
Troubleshoot issues with computer applications or systems.

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Maintain computer hardware.
Install computer hardware.
Develop specifications for computer network operation.
Test computer hardware performance.
Test software performance.
Update knowledge about emerging industry or technology trends.
Train others in computer interface or software use.
Document operational activities.
Conduct research to gain information about products or processes.
Prepare instruction manuals.

Apprenticeship Occupations

Registered apprenticeship program titles associated with this occupation.

Cloud Support Specialist
Junior Cloud Engineer (Nof)

This page incorporates information from O*NET Web Services by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).

Based on federal labor and demographic data. Data source & methodology