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Entry Level Computer Support Specialist Jobs in State College, PA

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Entry Level Computer Support Specialist information

See State College, PA salary details

$15

$26

$41

How much do entry level computer support specialist jobs pay per hour?

As of May 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level computer support specialist in State College, PA is $26.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.91 and $29.13 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does an Entry Level Computer Support Specialist Do?

An entry-level computer support specialist is an IT worker who installs software, maintains computer systems and related equipment, and offers technical support and troubleshooting help with the computers or network for which they are responsible. Your duties in this career include user training, and you are often on call to answer questions and solve IT problems for employees or clients. An entry-level computer support specialist generally handles their responsibilities as part of an IT department of a business, but you can also provide support as part of a third-party IT service provider.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Computer Support Specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Computer Support Specialist, you need a solid understanding of computer hardware, software troubleshooting, and basic networking, often supported by a relevant associate degree or IT certification such as CompTIA A+. Familiarity with help desk ticketing systems, remote support tools, and standard operating systems like Windows and macOS is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, effective communication, and patience with users are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are vital for efficiently resolving technical issues and ensuring a positive user experience.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level computer support specialists in their first year?

Entry level computer support specialists often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting unfamiliar technical issues, managing a high volume of support requests, and clearly communicating complex information to non-technical users. Adapting to various hardware and software environments, as well as learning company-specific processes, can also be demanding. However, these challenges provide valuable learning experiences and help build strong problem-solving and customer service skills.

What is the difference between Entry Level Computer Support Specialist vs Help Desk Technician?

AspectEntry Level Computer Support SpecialistHelp Desk Technician
Required CertificationsCompTIA A+ often preferredCompTIA A+ typically required
Work EnvironmentIn-office or remote technical supportHelp desk or call center support
Employer & Industry UsageIT departments, tech companies, small businessesIT service providers, corporate support centers
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level IT support rolesEntry-level help desk support roles

The Entry Level Computer Support Specialist and Help Desk Technician roles both serve as foundational IT support positions. While they share similar certifications and work environments, the Specialist may handle broader technical issues, whereas the Technician often focuses on customer support and troubleshooting via help desk systems. Both roles are essential for organizations seeking to maintain efficient IT operations at an entry level.

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Computer Support Specialist jobs in State College, PA? For Entry Level Computer Support Specialist jobs in State College, PA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Computer Support Specialist jobs in State College, PA look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Computer Support Specialist jobs in State College, PA are:
What cities near State College, PA are hiring for Entry Level Computer Support Specialist jobs? Cities near State College, PA with the most Entry Level Computer Support Specialist job openings:

Electrical Engineering Support Specialist

Penn State University

University Park, PA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago


Penn State University rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 98 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

146th of 528 rated colleges and universities


Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
  • CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.
POSITION SPECIFICS
Job Description
The Electronic Fabrication and Test Systems Department at The Applied Research Laboratory (ARL), is seeking an Electrical Engineering Support Specialist to support multiple projects and a wide range of tasks supporting the undersea mission for our military sponsors. You will work on cutting-edge projects for Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (UUV's), advanced sensors, and power and energy systems put us at the intersection of innovation and industry.
ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes all transitioning military members to apply.
You Will:
  • Plan, supervise, perform, or provide input to the layout, fabrication, assembly, documentation, and testing of standard and non-standard electromechanical equipment
  • Provide input to and perform design of electromechanical systems and interconnect products
  • Evaluate, recommend and purchase materials and components to meet operation specifications and interact with vendors
  • Install, calibrate, operate and/or maintain standard and non-standard equipment, experimental hardware, and/or computer systems in the Laboratory or in the field, assist with or assess and identifying system faults, repair/adjust standard and non-standard equipment
  • Assist senior technical/engineering staff in gathering, compiling, and archiving test data in the Laboratory or off-site
  • Work as part of a test project support team in the Laboratory or off-site
  • Direct the work of and provide training to lower-level engineering support specialist staff members

Additional responsibilities for higher level position:
  • Perform assembly operations and fabrication of facility and test equipment
  • Provide input to and perform design and layout of standard facility and test equipment as directed
  • Inspect, test, and calibrate parts and equipment as directed
  • Evaluate the selection of materials, and components based on operational and performance specifications
  • Assess and identify system faults, and adjust and repair as directed
  • Assist senior technical/engineering staff in gathering, compiling, and archiving test data in the laboratory or in the field
  • May work as part of a test project support team, including selected task leadership roles, in the laboratory, or in the field
  • May develop and provide documentation for task procedures and process evaluation

Required skills/experience include:
  • Electronics and/or electro-mechanics
  • Operating electronic test equipment, and the ability to assemble, test, and troubleshoot electronic circuitry
  • Microsoft Office, with the ability and willingness to perform basic computer tasks or learn computer programs

Preferred skills/experience include:
  • An active secret government security clearance

This position is 100% on-site Located in State College, PA. Questions related to flexible work should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process. This position will require periodic travel to remote locations in support of testing as part of a small team of researchers, engineers, and technologists.
MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS
If filled as Engineering Support Specialist - Senior Professional, this position requires:Associate Degree6+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience acceptedRequired Certifications:NoneIf filled as Engineering Support Specialist - Advanced Professional, this position requires:Associate Degree4+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience acceptedRequired Certifications:None
ARL's purpose is to research and develop innovative solutions to challenging scientific, engineering, and technology problems in support of the Navy, the Department of Defense (DoD), and the Intel Community (IC).
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION on ARL, visit our web site at www.arl.psu.edu.
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.
All positions at ARL require candidates to possess the ability to obtain a government security clearance; you will be notified during the interview process if this position is subject to a government background investigation. You must be a U.S. citizen to apply. Employment with the ARL will require successful completion of a pre-employment drug screen.
SALARY & BENEFITS
The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $56,200.00 - $89,600.00.**THE PROPOSED SALARY RANGE MAY BE IMPACTED BY GEOGRAPHIC DIFFERENTIAL**
Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure
Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.
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