As an information technology assistant, your job is to troubleshoot and repair computers for a business or government agency. IT assistants frequently install new hardware and software, configure existing systems to meet the organization's needs, return defective products to vendors, negotiate prices on new equipment, and monitor network use. You may also help prepare department budgets, replace equipment while following an upgrade schedule, and evaluate the relevance of emerging technology. When working for the government, you may be asked to participate in emergency response and remain at work in spite of evacuations. Some IT assistants are on-call for support outside of regular hours.