Computer network support specialists
SOC Code: 15-1231
Computer network support specialists carries a 36% AI exposure score (Medium automation risk), with a median annual wage of $73,340 and +1.8% projected employment growth from 2024 to 2034 (BLS), affecting approximately 152,700 workers. Full task breakdown, skills, and employer data are below.
Proportion of tasks susceptible to AI automation (O*NET analysis)
AI Exposure vs Industry Growth
Total occupations tracked
832
Covering all SOC major groups
Data currency
2024
BLS Employment Projections
AI exposure avg
40%
Fleet-wide median across all roles
Composite score weighing O*NET task data completeness, BLS projection methodology, and cross-validation with employer risk grades.
Employment Projections
Occupation Insight
Computer network support specialists (SOC 15-1231) carries an AI exposure score of 36%, placing it in the Medium automation-risk tier. This score is computed from O*NET Database 30.0 task-level analysis, where each task an occupation performs is evaluated against current generative AI, robotic process automation, and machine-learning capabilities. A score below 40% reflects tasks anchored in physical dexterity, unstructured environments, or high-touch human interaction that current AI cannot reliably replicate.
The economic context matters alongside the risk score. BLS counted approximately 152,700 workers in this occupation in 2024, and projects a +1.8% change through 2034 — modest growth that keeps the occupation viable even as tasks evolve. Median annual compensation stands at $73,340, reflecting both skill scarcity and the value employers place on the tasks that remain difficult to automate. Entry typically requires Associate's degree, plus None of related experience.
For career planners, this profile should be read alongside the task, skill, and knowledge breakdowns below and the list of employers whose workforce composition includes Computer network support specialists. Adjacent occupations shown further down offer lateral moves that preserve industry knowledge while potentially reducing exposure. Pair the AI exposure score with the BLS employment projection and wage percentiles above for a complete career assessment.
Education & Entry Requirements
Top Tasks (O*NET)
- 1. Back up network data.
- 2. Configure security settings or access permissions for groups or individuals.
- 3. Analyze and report computer network security breaches or attempted breaches.
- 4. Identify the causes of networking problems, using diagnostic testing software and equipment.
- 5. Document network support activities.
- 6. Configure wide area network (WAN) or local area network (LAN) routers or related equipment.
- 7. Install network software, including security or firewall software.
- 8. Troubleshoot network or connectivity problems for users or user groups.
- 9. Provide telephone support related to networking or connectivity issues.
- 10. Evaluate local area network (LAN) or wide area network (WAN) performance data to ensure sufficient availability or speed, to identify network problems, or for disaster recovery purposes.
Key Skills Required
- Critical Thinking
- Active Listening
- Reading Comprehension
- Judgment and Decision Making
- Speaking
- Active Learning
- Monitoring
- Complex Problem Solving
- Troubleshooting
- Systems Analysis
Knowledge Areas
- Computers and Electronics
- Telecommunications
- Customer and Personal Service
- Engineering and Technology
- English Language
- Administration and Management
- Communications and Media
- Education and Training
- Administrative
- Design
Frequently Asked Questions
Will AI replace Computer network support specialists?
Computer network support specialists has an AI exposure score of 36%, indicating a medium level of automation risk. The majority of tasks in this role require human judgment, creativity, or physical presence that AI cannot easily replicate.
What is the job outlook for Computer network support specialists?
According to BLS Employment Projections 2024-2034, Computer network support specialists is projected to grow by 1.8% over the decade. Current employment stands at approximately 152,700 workers.
What skills are needed for Computer network support specialists?
Key skills for Computer network support specialists include Critical Thinking, Active Listening, Reading Comprehension, and others. Typical entry-level education is Associate's degree.
How much do Computer network support specialists earn?
The median annual wage for Computer network support specialists is $73,340, according to BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2024). Actual earnings vary by location, experience, industry, and employer. The BLS publishes detailed wage percentiles by region in its Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics program.
What education is required for Computer network support specialists?
The typical entry-level education for Computer network support specialists is Associate's degree. Employers generally expect None of related work experience. On-the-job training typically involves Moderate-term on-the-job training. Requirements can vary by employer and specialization.
Which companies employ Computer network support specialists?
Computer network support specialists roles exist across many industries and employers. Workforce composition is estimated from BLS industry-occupation employment distributions matched to SEC-registered public companies.
AI Exposure Rating
Medium automation risk based on 10 analyzed tasks. Most tasks require human judgment and are resistant to automation.
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Data sources: Bureau of Labor Statistics Employment Projections 2024–2034 and O*NET Database 30.0. Employment figures are rounded. Wage data from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics (OES).