Technology
Help Desk Technician
The front line of IT — troubleshoot hardware, software, and network issues for end users. A common first step into the broader tech industry.
no-degree-requiredremote-friendlyentry-levelquick-start
70
ROI · Strong
Investment vs return
Cost · time · demand normalized 0–100
Salary progression
What you'll earn over your career
$42k
$58k
$78k
Entry
Mid-career
Senior
10-yr outlook
+6%
+6% (Faster than avg)
Open positions
78,000
Estimated nationwide
Entry paths
How to get here
Multiple paths lead to this career. Compare time, cost, online vs in-person delivery, and program links.
Certification Online
CompTIA A+
Time
2–4 months
Cost
$400 – $1,500
Most common entry credential. Often paid for by first employer.
Fastest ROI
Self-taught Online
Portfolio + home lab
Time
3–6 months
Cost
Paid / Free
Top programs
Works if you can demonstrate skills in interviews.
Affiliate disclosure: Some of the program links above may be affiliate partnerships. If you enroll, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We only link to programs we have actually reviewed against our methodology. See our methodology for how we evaluate schools.
Quick math
If you took the fastest path…
You'd train for
3–6 months
You'd spend (avg)
Paid / Free
Starting salary
$42,000
Mid-career
$58,000
Read more
Articles & resources
Sources: BLS OOH 2024 · CompTIA