IT Support Technician

Salary, skills, career path and opportunities in the UK.

Becoming an IT support technician in the UK doesn't require a degree, and the route in is more flexible than most people assume. Entry‑level pay sits around £20,000 - £26,000, mid‑career roles earn £28,000 - £40,000, senior or specialist IT support technicians earn £45,000 - £60,000. This guide covers the realistic route in, what you can earn at each stage, and whether the work fits how you like to spend your day.

Not sure? Take the assessment and find out the best career path that suits who you are.

You don't need a degree to become an IT support technician in the UK. The most reliable route is a mix of short formal training (college course, apprenticeship, or industry‑recognised certification) and hands‑on experience as quickly as possible – typically through an entry‑level role, apprenticeship, or paid work‑shadowing. Most people get their first proper role within 0‑12 months once they commit to the path.

No, you do not strictly need a degree to become an IT support technician in the UK. A degree is not required, but employers care more about demonstrable skill, a strong portfolio or work history, and the right attitude.

Every day is different. You'll enjoy solving practical problems quickly and helping people who are stuck, solve problems and keep moving things forward.

• Help people fix laptops, software, and network issues – keeping a workplace running.
• Troubleshooting, patience, clear communication, basic networking.

Work style:
Office, on‑site, or remote helpdesk.

Day rhythm: A steady weekly rhythm with regular routines.

It can be incredibly rewarding, but it’s not for everyone. Here’s what to know:

• Minimal gatekeeping and a real climb in pay.
• Work style: structured & collaborative – Office, on‑site, or remote helpdesk.
• Demand: steady.
• Competition: low.
• Plenty of room for new entrants.
• Difficulty: low.
• Approachable with the right basics.

The skills below are the foundation of working as a IT support technician. Some you bring, others you sharpen on the job – employers and clients consistently look for this mix when deciding who to hire and trust.

• Troubleshooting
• Clear communication
• Basic networking

Realistically, most people get their first paid IT support technician role within 0‑12 months. Consistent effort over a few months tends to be more important than rushing.

First point of contact – tickets, password resets, basic fixes.

Entry route:
Direct entry, CompTIA A+ helpful.

Handle escalated and more complex IT issues.

Entry route: 1‑3 years experience + certifications.

Maintain servers, networks, and core IT infrastructure.

Entry route:
Support background + Microsoft / Linux certs.

See how an IT support technician fits into wider career groups – or read deeper on the topics most relevant to you.

Take our 3‑minute personality assessment to see how this career matches your traits – and discover others you might love even more.