How to become computer network support specialistseducation, training, experience and the steps to enter

United States IT & Software Confidence ★★★★★

Median annual pay
$76,220
25th–75th pct. $58,240–$98,750
Top pay (est.)
$166,100
Top 10% $127,780
Pay in 5 years
$85,400est.
2031
Pay in 10 years
$95,600est.
$82,200–$111,000
Outlook score
40/100
★★☆☆☆ Below average
AI replacement risk
69%
High
Job growth (10 yr)
+1.2%
9,000 openings / yr

How to become computer network support specialists

Typical education
Associate's degree
BLS
Related experience
None
On-the-job training
Moderate-term on-the-job training

A step-by-step guide for this occupation is being prepared. The education, training and experience data above show the typical path.

Skills, education and requirements for Computer Network Support Specialists

Key skills

Reading Comprehension
3.9
Critical Thinking
3.8
Monitoring
3.6
Active Listening
3.6
Speaking
3.5
Writing
3.5
Systems Analysis
3.4
Judgment and Decision Making
3.4

O*NET skill level ratings (0–7).

Key knowledge areas

Computers and Electronics
6.6
Telecommunications
4.7
Engineering and Technology
4.1
Customer and Personal Service
3.8
Administration and Management
3.7
Administrative
3.7
Communications and Media
3.5
Education and Training
3.4

What the work involves

Updating and Using Relevant KnowledgeWorking with ComputersEstablishing and Maintaining Interpersonal RelationshipsCommunicating with Supervisors, Peers, or SubordinatesOrganizing, Planning, and Prioritizing WorkProviding Consultation and Advice to OthersMonitoring Processes, Materials, or SurroundingsThinking Creatively

Important abilities

Oral ComprehensionOral ExpressionDeductive ReasoningWritten ComprehensionWritten ExpressionInformation Ordering

Education of workers

Bachelor's degree
47%
Associate's degree
22%
Some college
14%
Post-secondary certificate
10%
High school diploma
4%
Post-bachelor's certificate
2%
Post-master's certificate
2%

Training before entry

6–12 months
25%
3–6 months
22%
2–4 years
21%
Up to 1 month
14%
1–2 years
7%
None / short demo
6%
4–10 years
4%

Related work experience

4–6 years
31%
1–2 years
23%
6–8 years
16%
2–4 years
13%
6–12 months
13%
8–10 years
4%

Job Zone 4 — considerable preparation needed (O*NET)

Difficulty of entry: ★★★☆☆ Moderate (from education, training, experience and Job Zone)

Career path and how to earn more as computer network support specialists

Career-path guidance is being prepared. Pay by percentile is shown in the Pay section.

Pay and employment figures are national statistics. Projected pay, outlook scores and AI replacement risk are estimates from the Shigoto Zukan model, not guarantees. To request a correction, use the contact form. How to read the data
Sources: BLS OEWS May 2025; BLS Employment Projections 2025–35; O*NET 31.0 Database by USDOL/ETA (CC BY 4.0), modified by Shigoto Zukan. Pay ranges, projections and scores are Shigoto Zukan estimates.