Getting your first Entry Level IT Help Desk Job (2024)

Are you interested in beginning an entry-level IT help desk role? If you've found yourself here, odds are your answer to that question is yes. It may seem overwhelming to figure out the steps needed to get into an entry level IT job, but don’t worry! We’re here to help you understand the qualifications and certifications necessary for a job in this field.

An IT Help Desk job involves providing support related to computer hardware, software, networks, and general technical queries. In some cases you may also have to do some light security work, handling things like single sign-on or password management. You should also be familiar with using a CRM, or Customer Relations Management system. Ultimately, an IT help desk technician is to provides excellent customer service while troubleshooting any issues that arise.

Certifications

The first step towards getting your foot in the door as an IT Help Desk Technician is making sure that you have the right skills and qualifications. Many employers will require some coding knowledge to be considered, so having experience in coding languages such as HTML/CSS, C++ or Java will be very beneficial. You can get certifications in different coding languages from accredited sources like freeCodeCamp or EdX (IBM), that carry real weight when applying for jobs in today's market. Additionally, certifications in the certain areas of IT beyond coding can help tremendously in landing your first entry level IT help desk job. Major companies looks for candidates with widely applicable certificates such as Microsoft Role-Based Certifications, Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), or CompTIA Network+ and Security+. These recognized certifications could give you a great competitive edge in the job market.

Do you need formal education?

Finally, some employers may prefer IT help desk technicians who have some formal education and training. While not all entry level IT jobs require a degree or even formal training, some still do, and even if they don't more experience or education in the field never hurts. There are many institutions that offer courses in computer networking and system support which can provide valuable skills for an entry level IT help desk role. Accredited schools, both in person and online, offer a range of degrees and certificates on any number of subject areas, from networks and security to databases and development. Most entry level IT help desk jobs won't require this extensive of certifications, but they are a good goal to work towards if you intend on furthering your career in IT beyond a help desk role.

Overall, pursuing an entry level IT help desk job is a great way to begin a rewarding career in the information technology industry. If you are interested in this field, make sure that you have the necessary qualifications and beneficial certifications, as well as some coding experience and training to give yourself an advantage when applying for your first IT help desk job. SkillsetGroup also staffs for IT roles so if you need some extra help, reach out to us today!