How to Get a Job as an IT Technician in an MSP?

An IT MSP (managed service provider) is a third-party company providing IT infrastructure maintenance for a company. The MSPs install, manage, maintain, and update the infrastructure remotely for a monthly subscription. If you want to build a career in the IT industry, working for an MSP will give you diverse hands-on experience and numerous opportunities to grow.

This blog aims to help you land a job as an IT technician in an MSP. We will cover the technical and soft skills required, the educational qualifications, the traits recruiters are looking for, and much more. But first, let us start by looking at the role of an IT technician.

A] What Is an MSP, and What Does an MSP Technician Do?

As mentioned above, an IT MSP provides comprehensive IT services for organizations for a monthly subscription. Instead of the traditional method of a reactive “break-fix” approach, MSPs use an active approach. They provide services like remote monitoring, help desk, cybersecurity, and network management.

An MSP IT technician is responsible for performing these tasks and ensuring the client’s IT infrastructure is running smoothly and is updated to the latest version. The roles and responsibilities of an IT technician in an MSP include:

• Diagnosing, repairing, and maintaining network infrastructure and systems.
• Troubleshooting problems as they arise.
• Install antivirus and anti-malware solutions.
• Monitor and sometimes provide users access to servers, systems, and files.
• Training the organization’s non-IT staff.
• Create backups and maintain cybersecurity.

B] What Skills Do You Need for MSP IT Technician Jobs?

1. Technical Skills for MSP Jobs:

• Hardware & software troubleshooting: Troubleshooting skills are required for solving level 1 issues with systems and network infrastructure.
• Active Directory, DNS, DHCP: Understanding concepts of Active Directory, DNS, and DHCP is critical for handling domain name resolution and IP address assignment.
• Networking basics (TCP/IP, firewalls, VPNs): This knowledge protects data and secures remote access, which is especially important in MSP environments managing multiple client networks.
• Familiarity with RMM and PSA tools: These platforms assist in ticketing, time tracking, and workflow management along with monitoring client systems and resolving issues remotely.
• Basic scripting skills: These skills boost efficiency and reduce human error across managed systems by automating repetitive tasks.
• Endpoint security: MSP techs often deploy and manage antivirus, EDR, and security policies across multiple devices and environments to protect client devices from malware, data breaches, and unauthorized access.

2. Soft Skills:

• Collaboration and communication skills: IT technicians need to work in a team environment in an MSP, requiring collaboration and communication skills.
• Customer service skills: A technician has to work directly with people from different organizations, requiring patience, empathy, and strong customer service skills.
• Constant Learning and Upgrading: IT is a dynamic field, and to keep skills and knowledge up-to-date, the technician must be willing to keep learning the latest technologies and systems.

C] Qualifications and Certifications Required For Working for an MSP as an IT Technician

1. Entry-Level:

• CompTIA A+: CompTIA A+ is a basic certification consisting of hardware, software, troubleshooting, and basic networking knowledge, perfect for entry-level MSP technician jobs.
• CompTIA Network+: As the name suggests, CompTIA Network+ is focused on networking concepts. This certification teaches routing, switching, protocols, and network troubleshooting to manage and support network infrastructure.
• Cisco Certified Technician (CCT): If the industry involves installing, maintaining, and troubleshooting Cisco network devices, CCT can be a good entry-level certification to have.

2. Mid-Level (Nice to Have):

• CompTIA Security+: This certification is great for those who are looking for specialization in cybersecurity. It offers a foundational understanding of cybersecurity, including threat detection, secure network design, and compliance.
• Microsoft 365 Certified (Fundamentals): This validates knowledge of Microsoft 365 services such as Exchange, SharePoint, and Teams, which are widely used by MSP clients.
• Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900): If your role requires knowledge in Microsoft’s cloud platform, Azure Fundamentals is one of the best certifications.
• Cisco CCNA: This certification demonstrates knowledge of IP connectivity, security fundamentals, and automation.

D] Can You Apply Without Experience & How to Build Experience Before Applying?

The junior IT technician role is an entry-level position in an IT MSP; hence, even freshers can apply for this role. However, generally candidates with some experience are given preference during recruitment. You either need hands-on experience in an IT-related field or any experience working in an MSP environment.

Candidates can start with internships or apprenticeships with local IT companies. These roles offer exposure to network setups, cybersecurity tools, and remote support processes. In addition, they also strengthen your resume, build confidence, and develop practical skills.

E] What Do MSP Recruiters Look For While Hiring?

• Technical proficiency: Recruiters often look for technical skills in relevant fields like cybersecurity, system management, troubleshooting, and networking. Having the right certifications and experience can demonstrate technical knowledge.
• Problem-solving skills: The IT technician’s job involves frequent troubleshooting and handling complex technical problems. The right candidate must be able to solve complex problems through existing means and be capable of coming up with new solutions if necessary.
• Cultural Fit: In addition to technical skills, the candidate must also be able to fit in the cultural environment of the organization. This is critical for enhancing collaboration and productivity.
• Adaptability: Technicians often support multiple clients with diverse systems; hence, recruiters need professionals who can switch their focus and even multitask without compromising work quality. Candidates must also be able to adapt to different models of systems and networking infrastructure for optimal performance.
• Customer Service Skills: IT support often involves client interaction; hence, recruiters look for communication skills and customer service skills.

Conclusion

Building a career as an MSP IT technician can be rewarding and fulfilling. However, to get your foot through the door, you will need to obtain the right technical and soft skills. Entry-level qualifications like CompTIA A+ and CompTIA Network+ are often required. You can also complete other certifications that help you build a niche and progress your career. Candidates with prior experience in related fields are often given priority.

If you are looking for a role as an IT technician in an MSP, contact us today! Vertical Talent Solutions is the leading MSP IT recruitment agency in the USA.