IT Specialist

While an IT specialist’s role can depend largely on their specific organization and area of specialization, most of these core duties exist in any enterprise:

Install and Configure Networks

Many IT specialists work directly with an organization’s servers and networks, performing setup, enhancement, and maintenance tasks. An IT specialist ensures that employees’ work stations can successfully connect to networks and access business-critical data at all times. They may also configure network security settings and connect peripheral devices, like printers and scanners, that are used by multiple users.

Manage Databases

IT specialists build an organization’sdatabase architectureso that data is correctly stored and easily accessible. This can involve setting up data storage and retrieval protocols, adjusting permissions, and maintaining data security and integrity during migrations, backups, and day-to-day use. IT specialists use their expertise in database programs and languages to support enterprise-wide database access.

Provide User Support

IT specialists provide direct support to users across the organization. This can include helping set up hardware or software, diagnosing connectivity or data access problems, answering questions about hardware or software, and helping users access shared drives and devices. In some organizations, an IT specialist may also provide support to help desk personnel and technicians.

Manage Information Security

IT specialists maintain information security throughout the organization. They accomplish this goal in many ways, including monitoring access logs and building database security procedures. They may also set up antivirus programs at work stations, develop policies for email security, and perform periodic data audits and backups to prevent information loss and unauthorized access.

Troubleshoot Systems and Hardware

IT specialists also support the IT department and their organizations by troubleshooting systems and hardware, particularly after server migration or an organization-wide update. The IT specialist identifies issues with new hardware or software and works with users or on the back end of servers to quickly resolve those issues and prevent delays. The IT specialist may also prepare reports on hardware and software issues as part of this role.