Skip to the main content
Go to the search page
IT operations technicians are responsible for the day-to-day running of IT systems and networks including the preparation of back-up systems, and for performing regular checks to ensure the smooth functioning of such systems.

Main tasks

  • Acts as a liaison between users, outside suppliers, and other technical teams.
  • Performs server backup and recovery operations and restarts systems following outages.
  • Identifies problems, agrees remedial action and undertakes emergency maintenance if required.
  • Analyses systems and makes recommendations to improve performance.
  • Schedules and performs system maintenance tasks, such as loading user applications, programs and data.
  • Configures and sets up new server systems.
  • Administers, monitors and supports internal/external networks, servers, email and security systems.

Source: Office for National Statistics.

Salary and earnings

Potential earnings

£46,493.79

Average earnings

£29,043.00

Source: Office for National Statistics' Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings (ASHE).

Skills & knowledge

The top 5 most important skills and knowledge requirements relevant to this career.

Reading Comprehension

Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.

Critical Thinking

Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.

Active Learning

Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.

Writing

Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.

Speaking

Talking to others to convey information effectively.

Computers and Electronics

Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.

Telecommunications

Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of telecommunications systems.

Clerical

Knowledge of administrative and clerical procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, stenography and transcription, designing forms, and other office procedures and terminology.

Administration and Management

Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modelling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.

English Language

Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.

What course level do I need to study?

The level of study required will vary with each job, sector and company. The table below shows the level of study achieved by those currently working in this career choice.

Educational requirements: Level 3 NVQ; A Levels

Source: Office for National Statistics.

Level of study Percentage achieved
Level 0 3%
Level 1 2%
Level 2 13%
Level 3 26%
Level 4-5 (Higher Education) 12%
Level 6 (Bachelors) 37%
Level 7 (Masters or equivalent) 5%
Level 8 (Doctorate) 2%

Source: Labour Force Survey (LFS) data.

Economic data for careers is provided by Lightcast and also available through our Career Coach app. Job postings, employment and earnings information is represented at the regional level for the East Midlands.