Member Avatar for Alterah

Hello, I am currently looking online for an IT related job. I am wanting to move from my teller job to something that involves computers and pays roughly the same or better than my teller job. Now, with that in mind I realize I may have to take a pay cut because I have no official computer experience (I have never had a computer/IT job). The only experience I have is from messing with my own computer, building a couple computers, and reading various information online. So, what I am wanting may simply be stupid because as a candidate, I realize the only thing I have working for me is my extreme desire to learn and the fact I am going to college next year for a degree in computer science. I do have my associates degree, but just a general transfer one. Now, with my rambling done, the two jobs I am wanting clarification on are:

Computer Operations Specialist
Under general supervision the Computer Operations Specialist monitors and controls a computer by operating the central console or on-line terminals. May operate auxiliary equipment directly associated with the computer. May maintain records regarding output units and supply inventories. May assist in manipulating controls to rearrange sequence of job steps to continue operations when individual units of the system malfunction.

Requirements: Associates Degree and Six months related experience. Additional experience may substitute for education requirement on a year-for year basis.

and

Data Computing Analyst
The Desktop Computing Analyst performs analytical, technical and administrative work in the planning, design and installation of moderately complex personal computer (PC) systems. Confers with customers to identify types of hardware and software required and provides training in their use. Follows established protocols for PC applications and hardware while installing and supporting hardware and software.

Requirements: Associates Degree and Six months related experience. Additional experience may substitute for education requirement on a year-for year basis.

Thanks for any help and advice you can offer.

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Good move—building PCs and starting Python already give real, hireable evidence you can list on a resume. For immediate job hunting aim for end‑user / support roles (help desk, desktop support, field tech) rather than operations centers; the operations-style roles tend to focus on running centralized consoles and batch/console procedures and often use shift rotations, while desktop‑analyst roles are hands‑on with PCs, installs and user training — a much closer fit to your current skills and customer‑service experience. (careernavigator.umich.edu)

A short, practical learning plan you can execute in weeks, not years:

  1. Earn an entry cert like CompTIA A+ to validate hardware/OS troubleshooting; employers list it often for tech‑support hires.
  2. Add CompTIA Network+ (or later Cisco CCNA) as you learn basic networking concepts.
  3. Build a home lab (VirtualBox/VMs + Packet Tracer or GNS3) and practice captures with Wireshark — this gives stories to tell in interviews.
    Getting A+ and then a networking cert will open the most entry‑level listings and make your switch realistic. (comptia.org)

On applications and interviews: treat your teller work as relevant—highlight customer service, handling confidential transactions, accuracy under pressure, and examples of troubleshooting (PC builds, fixing family/friends’ machines). Put Python projects and a short GitHub repo near the top of your résumé. Look for temp/contract IT roles, apprenticeships, or help‑desk openings; they’re common entry paths and the overall field has steady demand and reasonable entry pay compared with many retail jobs. (bls.gov)

Practical first steps today: pick one A+ study resource and schedule an exam; register for a free Cisco NetAcad Packet Tracer intro; create one small Python utility and push it to GitHub; offer to support a local nonprofit or a small business for a few weekends to get documented experience. Echoing , persistence helps — and to , a little guts plus measurable progress beats vague intent every time.

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Member Avatar for yollyP.

Just bear in mind that no matter the hindrances are if you have the guts, the urge, the burning desire to learn, in a span of two or three months you are already ready to face the challenges of IT world. Who knows you might be one of the best in your chosen field. Just be prepared for the "worst" before reaching the best.

Member Avatar for ahihihi...

what if with guts but no glory?..

Member Avatar for Alterah

Thanks, I know I have the desire to learn and the capability to learn. Those are two different things. I love computers and am beginning to love programming in Python. Granted, I am in the beginning stages. Can anyone point me to some good online tools to learn about say networking in more detail along with other computer topics. If I don't have the official work experience, maybe I can gain some knowledge that would help me. The computing industry is broad and so I feel I am better off learning about many different topics. Thanks!

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