Key Takeaways:
- Why CompTIA A+ Is the Ideal First Step in Tech: This industry-standard certification prepares you for real-world roles like help desk technician, field service technician, and system support specialist, backed by an average salary of over $83,000.
- Where CompTIA A+ Can Take You: From hospitals and schools to banks and defense contractors, A+ certified professionals are needed across industries that rely on reliable IT support.
- How A+ Sets You Up for What’s Next: Beyond entry-level jobs, this credential lays the foundation for advancing into networking, cybersecurity, cloud, and service management through certifications like Network+, Security+, and ITIL®.
Starting a career in IT doesn’t require years of schooling—just the right foundation. For many aspiring professionals, that first step is the CompTIA A+ certification, a credential built for those ready to land their first tech job. If you're drawn to building networks, fixing system glitches, or helping others navigate tech issues, you're in the right profession. The A+ certification opens doors to entry-level roles that put your skills into action.
In this guide, we’ll explore what jobs you can get with CompTIA A+ look like, how they fit into your long-term CompTIA A+ career plan, and how our team at Dion Training helps you get there faster with bite-sized courses, real-world labs, and expert support every step of the way. Your future in IT starts with one confident move. Let’s make it together.
CompTIA A+ Certification And Job Market Demand
The demand for certified IT professionals continues to grow, and more employers prefer hands-on technical skills over traditional four-year degrees.
CompTIA A+ is widely recognized as the industry standard entry point into IT, with average credential holders earning $83,798 per year. If you're weighing the value of certification, check out our breakdown of the CompTIA cost so you can plan your budget before jumping in.
Here’s why this foundational certification continues to gain momentum.
Employers Want Candidates With Real-World Readiness
Technical ability is only part of the equation. Hiring managers want applicants who can troubleshoot systems quickly, communicate clearly with users, and keep business operations running smoothly. The CompTIA A+ certification proves you can do exactly that. This certification shows that you understand:
- Hardware and software fundamentals across Windows, Mac, and mobile platforms
- How to solve technical issues efficiently and professionally
- The basics of networking, cybersecurity, and cloud operations
Job Growth In IT Is Outpacing Many Other Fields
As more companies shift to hybrid and remote operations, the need for skilled IT support has grown substantially. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, demand for computer support specialists is projected to grow by 6% from 2023 to 2033, faster than the average for most occupations. Companies are actively hiring candidates who can:
- Set up and troubleshoot work-from-home setups
- Respond to support tickets quickly and accurately
- Maintain networks, systems, and cloud-based environments
CompTIA A+ Is The Stepping Stone To Long-Term Career Growth
Earning your A+ builds a technical foundation that supports your entire IT journey. After getting certified, many of our students go on to pursue:
- CompTIA Network+ for a deeper dive into networking
- Security+ to start building toward a cybersecurity role
- ITIL® Foundation for those interested in service management
- CompTIA Cloud Essentials+ to get familiar with cloud computing
Each of these paths builds on what you learn during your A+ training. That’s why our team emphasizes mastery of core concepts from day one, so you're not just cramming for a test, you’re learning skills that stick.
Help Desk Technician: Your First IT Job
Help desk technician roles are often where future IT pros get their start, and for good reason. These frontline positions give you hands-on experience solving real problems for real users, often in fast-paced settings where every decision counts.
From your first day, you'll handle requests like password resets, email access issues, printer malfunctions, and software glitches. You'll field calls, respond to tickets, and walk users through solutions while keeping systems running smoothly. These are the kinds of tasks that build technical confidence quickly while sharpening your communication skills.
Additionally, you’ll see how user devices connect to networks, how different operating systems behave, and how to translate technical instructions into helpful, plain language. Many of our students find this role helps them uncover what area of IT excites them most, whether it’s cybersecurity, cloud infrastructure, or network administration.
Field Service Technician Positions Explained
If you've ever called tech support and had someone dispatched to fix your office laptops or coax that stubborn server back to life, you've seen a Field Service Technician in action. Field service technicians are the boots-on-the-ground troubleshooters of the IT world. Offices, schools, and healthcare networks rely on these techs to solve equipment failures, resolve software issues, and keep critical systems online.
Each day looks a little different. You might spend your morning swapping out a failing hard drive, then head to a client’s office to restore their Wi-Fi. Along the way, you’ll field support tickets, install and configure devices, and answer questions from users who aren’t always tech-savvy. Strong communication skills are key here, and field techs must translate IT concepts into everyday language.
This role demands flexibility, attention to detail, and comfort with hands-on problem-solving. That’s why so many employers list CompTIA A+ certification as a must-have. It shows you're trained in core troubleshooting, safety protocols, and basic network connectivity so you can confidently step into high-stakes situations.
Our students at Dion Training tell us our real-world CompTIA labs give them a major advantage. You’ll walk through tasks like reconfiguring routers, replacing motherboards, or documenting fixes clearly for handoff to another tech. Those exercises mimic what hiring managers expect field service techs to do on day one.
System Support Specialist: What To Expect
The role of a System Support Specialist sits at the crossroads of technology and problem-solving. On any given day, you’ll be the person colleagues turn to when devices malfunction, software freezes, or network hiccups. When devices freeze, email stops syncing, or networks slow down, this is the person everyone calls.
This role centers around reliability. You’ll manage hardware repairs, run software updates, and handle user accounts while fielding help desk tickets. Onboarding new employees often falls under your responsibilities, from setting up workstations to configuring permissions, making you an essential part of someone’s first day.
System support specialists also spend time digging into diagnostics. You’ll read error logs, use remote access tools, and apply structured problem-solving to get to the root of technical disruptions. A working knowledge of network connections, cloud-based applications, and basic security practices will set you apart from other candidates. Hiring managers look for someone who can explain solutions clearly and has a steady approach during high-pressure moments.
At Dion Training, our CompTIA A+ prep walks you through real scenarios you’ll likely face, such as identifying a misconfigured DNS or securing a workstation flagged as a phishing attempt. These lessons help you build confidence before the A+ certification jobs even begin.
Companies That Hire CompTIA A+ Certified Professionals
When you earn your CompTIA A+ certification, you’re opening the door to roles at some of the world’s most recognized employers in technology, finance, healthcare, and beyond. This entry-level IT credential signals to hiring managers that you have hands-on abilities. Here are some of the top places hiring for CompTIA A+ certification jobs right now:
- Technology Companies: Brands like Dell, HP, Intel, and Lenovo often hire A+ certified techs to work in help desks, hardware support, and customer service roles.
- Government and Defense Contractors: Federal agencies and military branches frequently require CompTIA A+ certification for IT infrastructure support roles.
- Healthcare Systems: Hospitals such as HCA Healthcare and Kaiser Permanente need reliable IT professionals to maintain secure digital records and equipment. These environments value candidates who can troubleshoot quickly.
- Retail and Tech Services: Best Buy (Geek Squad) and Staples rely on A+ certified specialists to resolve device issues, manage tech inventory, and guide customers through repairs.
- Finance and Insurance Firms: Organizations like Liberty Mutual and American Express hire A+ holders to keep systems secure, maintain uptime, and help employees stay productive in high-stakes environments.
- Managed Service Providers (MSPs): Outsourced IT support companies like CompuCom, Insight, and CDW need certified techs to deliver reliable services to a wide range of clients.
- Colleges and Universities: Academic institutions of all sizes use A+ as a baseline requirement for hiring help desk techs, lab assistants, and system support specialists.
Our CompTIA A+ courses are built to prepare you for these roles with the tools, labs, and training you’ll need to succeed.
Final Thoughts
Earning your CompTIA A+ certification sets the stage for long-term growth in tech. This credential connects you with real job opportunities across industries, from help desk support to systems management. Each role gives you experience with troubleshooting, communication, and technical environments that hiring managers value.
As your skills grow, you’ll gain the confidence to pursue more advanced certifications like CompTIA Network+,Security+, or ITIL® Foundation, expanding your impact in networking, cybersecurity, and service management. Our team at Dion Training is here to help you take that first step. We’ve built our CompTIA courses around practical instruction, hands-on labs, and clear guidance so you can confidently learn and excel.
Read more:
- Exploring the World of IT Certifications: Is CompTIA Right for You?
- CompTIA Network+ vs CCNA: Which Certification Should You Choose for Your IT Career?
- CCSP Certification Guide: How to Become a Certified Cloud Security Professional
Frequently Asked Questions About CompTIA A+ Jobs
Are there any help desk positions that require CompTIA A+?
Absolutely! Many entry-level help desk roles list CompTIA A+ certification as a required or preferred qualification. Employers value the A+ because it proves you have the foundational hardware and troubleshooting skills to assist users with various IT problems.
What are the career progression opportunities after obtaining CompTIA A+?
Earning your CompTIA A+ is just the start. Many professionals use it as a launchpad into roles such as Network Administrator, Systems Administrator, or IT Support Engineer. From there, advanced certifications like CompTIA Network+, Security+, or ITIL® help you specialize in networking, cybersecurity, or IT service management.
Is CompTIA A+ relevant for those interested in networking jobs?
Yes—while CompTIA A+ is typically an entry-level certification, it covers the basics of networking concepts, protocols, and troubleshooting, forming a solid foundation for anyone aiming to work in network support or administration. Many Dion Training students pursue Network+ as their next step, building on their A+ knowledge and moving into more specialized networking positions.
Can I get a job in cybersecurity with a CompTIA A+ certification?
You can start your cybersecurity journey with a CompTIA A+ certification. Many entry-level cybersecurity positions require a strong understanding of IT fundamentals—exactly what A+ delivers. After A+, Dion Training recommends progressing to CompTIA Security+ (and then maybe into courses like CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst or ITIL® for a service management perspective) to qualify for roles such as Security Analyst, SOC Analyst, or Junior Penetration Tester.
Can I work in IT administration with a CompTIA A+ certification?
Yes! Many organizations hire IT administrators who have at least a CompTIA A+ certification to manage devices, troubleshoot problems, and help keep technology running smoothly. While additional certifications may be needed as you advance, A+ shows employers you are qualified for entry-level administration roles. Dion Training’s career-oriented approach links your A+ to next steps like CompTIA Network+ and ITIL® for broader administrative opportunities.
How often do I need to renew my CompTIA A+ certification to stay relevant in the job market?
CompTIA A+ certifications are valid for three years. Renewing your certification is crucial for staying competitive in the evolving IT job market. Before taking the exam, many students review our CompTIA A+ tips to study more efficiently and avoid common prep mistakes.
What are the chances of landing a remote IT job with CompTIA A+?
Remote IT opportunities have expanded dramatically in recent years. Many companies hire CompTIA A+ certified professionals for remote help desk, support, or technician roles, especially if you demonstrate strong communication and troubleshooting skills.
