Software support engineering

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I'm about to finish my degree (biomedical science and environmental studies) and I'm considering applying for a role in software support engineering with an IT company. They're asking for a degree in any subject and will provide training.

I'm wondering though if it would be suitable for someone with AS. I work in retail, so i can socialise well enough to serve customers, even though i dont like it. I get on well with my coworkers. Would the job involve dealing with the dreaded "public"? Would someone with ASPERGERS struggle?

I've worked the "hell desk" for a major IT company. The pace and pressure can be very hard for an aspie. I'd recommend being a 2nd or 3rd level support engineer where your interaction with customers is less frequent. You really have to have solid coping tools with stress, time management, and solid diplomacy skills.

I was hyper competitive and hated to lose. That was a trigger for meltdowns when a resolution action plan failed to provide relief and management was called in to escalate. You really have to be chill to do work as a support engineer.

I completely agree. I did a support job that combined all three levels for a small software/hardware company and would deal with up to 100 calls a day (24 hours a day (pager), 365 days a year in 3 shifts). I managed three years and was completely burnt out at the end with multiple meltdowns. During my next job interview, one of my requirements was "no customer support". Now, I stay as far away from a telephone as possible!

It is a good "leg up" to a better position, though.