The modern business industry is dominated by technology and digital information. As a result, the need for qualified and skilled IT technicians is more critical than ever. If you want to build a career as an IT technician, you will find numerous opportunities through IT MSPs. However, to find the best roles in the industry an IT technician needs to acquire a number of technical and people skills.
What are these skills? We will answer this exact question in this blog. We will also help you navigate the certifications and learning paths to become a skilled MSP IT technician, and career trajectory. But first, let’s understand the role of an MSP IT Technician.
A] The Role of an MSP IT Technician
An IT technician working with an MSP (Managed Service Provider) IT is responsible for providing support to clients and troubleshooting problems. They are responsible for many day-to-day system administration and maintenance tasks. These include:
- ⮚ Set up workstations for other members of the organization with computers, printers, routers, and other devices.
- ⮚ Routine checking of HDD, mouse, keyboards, monitors, etc.
- ⮚ Install and configure software in computers according to the organization’s requirements.
- ⮚ Optimize system performance by setting up local networks.
- ⮚ Oversee system security and privacy.
- ⮚ If new software is introduced in the organization, IT technicians will need to hold seminars to train the staff on how to use it.
- ⮚ Organize and schedule system updates in a way that doesn’t affect other’s work.
- ⮚ Diagnose and resolve IT problems by troubleshooting.
- ⮚ Journaling logs of repairs and fixes.
- ⮚ Place order of IT equipment if necessary.
B] Top Skills that Every MSP IT Technician Should Have
1. Essential Technical Skills
- ⮚ Technical Proficiency and Troubleshooting: Every IT technician needs to be technically proficient. This means they must be knowledgeable about computer systems, networks, and hardware. They must also recognize errors and perform repairs.
- ⮚ Networking and Cyber Security: IT technicians must be aware of networking principles and security protocols and be skilled in setting up configurations, managing firewalls, and protecting against threats.
- ⮚ System Administration and Management: System administration and management skills include managing user accounts, ensuring reliable system performance, and overseeing software installations and updates. They must be able to oversee these critical IT aspects with efficiency.
- ⮚ Cloud Computing Services: Fluency in cloud computing is essential for any aspiring IT technician in this business environment. Technicians need to manage the cloud infrastructure, services, and architecture of an organization using cloud platforms. Cloud computing skills allow technicians to support digital transformation initiatives.
- ⮚ Database Management and SQL: They must have the ability to organize, store, and retrieve data on demand from the database. This process must keep the data safe from unauthorized personnel and protect it from tampering. They must have at least a working knowledge of SQL for database management.
- ⮚ Operating Systems Expertise: Expertise in operating systems like Windows, MacOS, and Linux is the basic foundation for an IT job role. These skills are necessary for providing reliable technical support in daily operations.
2. Important Soft Skills
- ⮚ Communication Nuance: IT technicians need to explain various concepts and train organization members in their day-to-day job roles. Being able to communicate effectively and translate complex technical jargon in an understandable manner is critical for optimal performance.
- ⮚ Time Management: A typical working day of a technician is filled with various tasks. Time management skills are critical for juggling multiple tasks and projects and meeting deadlines.
- ⮚ Proactive Learning: The IT industry is always evolving and growing. To succeed as an IT technician, they must actively keep on learning about new technologies and systems and implement them effectively within their organizations.
- ⮚ Collaboration: MSP IT professionals often have to work together with different teams across organizations. Collaboration skills are essential for coordinating deadlines and deliverables. They must be proficient in assigning and delegating tasks, keeping track of progress, and presenting resorts to the brass.
- ⮚ Interpersonal and Customer Service Skills: IT technicians need to frequently communicate with organization members and stakeholders. As a result, they must possess skills to de-escalate situations through effective communication, patience, and clear communication.
- ⮚ Problem-Solving: Problem-solving skills are essential for an IT technician as they need to find effective and efficient solutions for complex problems in their day-to-day role.
3. Emerging Skills for 2025
These are some skills we think will be very valuable in the coming decade.
- ⮚ AI: AI is at the forefront of every major business. Learning how to use AI can immensely help you in your career.
- ⮚ Machine Learning Applications: Machine Learning is the use of algorithms to find patterns. IT technicians can use this information to optimize their decision-making.
- ⮚ Data Analysis: Data analytics can be used to optimize IT performance and solve client challenges.
Also Read – https://verticaltalentsolutions.com/career-guide-for-systems-administrators-in-msps/
C] Certifications and Learning Paths To Become A Skilled MSP IT Technician
- ⮚ CompTIA Security+ and CompTIA Network+: This is a foundational certification for all cybersecurity professionals.
- ⮚ ITIL Foundation: The ITIL Foundation certification is essential for those looking to learn about the Information Technology Infrastructure Library.
- ⮚ Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP): If you are looking to specialize in cybersecurity, CISSP is a must.
- ⮚ Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP): It is crucial for MSPs that provide cloud-based solutions and handle cloud architecture, governance, and risk management.
- ⮚ AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Professional (AWS CSA-P): This certification helps recruiters know you have expertise in designing and deploying scalable, highly available, and fault-tolerant systems on AWS..
- ⮚ Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH): Ethical hacking is a highly demanded skill for addressing security vulnerabilities.
Conclusion
The career opportunities for an IT technician are immense in today’s technology-heavy business environment. An IT professional needs to perform several roles in their daily professional life. They need to have technical proficiency along with knowledge of networking and cyber security, cloud computing, and database management to perform these tasks effectively. They will also require soft skills such as communication skills, time-management skills, and customer service skills.
With the growing demand for IT professionals, partnering with a specialized IT agency recruitment service can help you find the right job opportunities in this competitive field. These agencies focus on connecting skilled IT technicians with top employers, ensuring a good match for both candidates and companies.
If you want to join an IT MSP as an IT technician, get in touch with Vertical Talent Solutions today! We connect talented IT professionals with the top MSPs in America.
FAQs
To demonstrate your skills as an IT technician in 2025, stay up to date with emerging technologies, participate in relevant certifications, and showcase your problem-solving abilities through real-world projects or troubleshooting scenarios.
Emerging skills for IT technicians include proficiency in cloud computing, cybersecurity, AI/automation tools, and an understanding of IoT systems, along with advanced troubleshooting and remote support capabilities.
IT technicians can develop soft skills by engaging in team collaborations, seeking feedback, improving communication through training or workshops, and practicing empathy when interacting with clients or colleagues.
Improving MSP IT technical skills involves continuous learning through vendor certifications, hands-on experience with managed services tools, keeping up with industry trends, and collaborating with peers to exchange knowledge..
Ted White is the President & CEO of Vertical Talent Solutions and has over two decades of IT recruiting experience. Specializing in assisting Managed Service Providers in securing their ideal roles, his expertise navigates career paths precisely. Connect with Ted White for tailored recruitment solutions today.