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Computer and IT Careers
Computer Systems Analysts, Engineers,
and Scientists
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The rapid spread of computers and information technology
(IT) has generated a need for highly trained workers to design
and develop new hardware and software systems and to incorporate
new technologies. These workers—computer systems analysts,
engineers, and scientists—include a wide range of computer-related
occupations. Job tasks and occupational titles used to describe
this broad category of workers evolve rapidly, reflecting
new areas of specialization or changes in technology, as well
as the preferences and practices of employers.
Systems analysts solve computer problems and enable
computer technology to meet individual needs of an organization.
They help an organization realize the maximum benefit from
its investment in equipment, personnel, and business processes.
This process may include planning and developing new computer
systems or devising ways to apply existing systems’ resources
to additional operations. Systems analysts may design new
systems, including both hardware and software, or add a new
software application to harness more of the computer’s
power. Most systems analysts work with a specific type of
system that varies with the type of organization they work
for—for example, business, accounting or financial systems,
or scientific and engineering systems. Systems development
workers are also referred to as a systems developer
and systems architect.
Analysts begin an assignment by discussing the systems problem
with managers and users to determine its exact nature. They
define the goals of the system and divide the solutions into
individual steps and separate procedures. Analysts use techniques
such as structured analysis, data modeling, information engineering,
mathematical model building, sampling, and cost accounting
to plan the system. They specify the inputs to be accessed
by the system, design the processing steps, and format the
output to meet the users’ needs. They also may prepare
cost-benefit and return-on-investment analyses to help management
decide whether implementing the proposed system will be financially
feasible.
When a system is accepted, analysts determine what computer
hardware and software will be needed to set it up. They coordinate
tests and observe initial use of the system to ensure it performs
as planned. They prepare specifications, work diagrams, and
structure charts for computer programmers to follow and then
work with them to "debug," or eliminate errors from
the system. Analysts, who do more in-depth testing
of products, may be referred to as software quality assurance
analysts. In addition to running tests, these individuals
diagnose problems, recommend solutions, and determine if program
requirements have been met.
In some organizations, programmer-analysts design
and update the software that runs a computer. Because they
are responsible for both programming and systems analysis,
these workers must be proficient in both areas. As this becomes
more commonplace, these analysts increasingly work with object-oriented
programming languages, as well as client/server applications
development, and multimedia and Internet technology.
One obstacle associated with expanding computer use is the
need for different computer systems to communicate with each
other. Because of the importance of maintaining up-to-date
information—accounting records, sales figures, or budget
projections, for example—systems analysts work on making
the computer systems within an organization compatible so
that information can be shared. Many systems analysts are
involved with "networking," connecting all the computers
internally—in an individual office, department, or establishment—or
externally, since many organizations now rely on e-mail or
the World Wide Web. A primary goal of networking is to allow
users to retrieve data and information from a mainframe computer
or a server and use it on their machine. Analysts must design
the hardware and software to allow free exchange of data,
custom applications, and the computer power to process it
all.
Networks come in many variations and network systems and
data communications analysts design, test, and evaluate
systems such as Local Area Networks (LAN), Wide Area Networks
(WAN), Internet, Intranet, and other data communications systems.
These analysts perform network modeling, analysis and planning;
they may also research related products and make necessary
hardware and software recommendations. Telecommunications
specialists focus on the interaction between computer
and communications equipment.
Computer engineers also work with the hardware and
software aspects of systems design and development. They usually
apply the theories and principles of science and mathematics
to design hardware, software, networks, and processes and
to solve technical problems. Whereas their work emphasizes
the application of theory, computer engineers are also involved
in building prototypes. They often work as part of a team
that designs new computing devices or computer-related equipment,
systems, or software. Computer hardware engineers usually
design, develop, test, and supervise the manufacture of computer
hardware—such as chips or device controllers. Software
engineers, on the other hand, can be involved in the design
and development of software systems for control and automation
of manufacturing, business, and management processes. They
may research, design, and test operating system software,
compilers—software that converts programs for faster
processing—and network distribution software. Software
engineers or software developers working in applications
development analyze users’ needs and design, create,
and modify general computer applications software or specialized
utility programs. These professionals also possess strong
programming skills, but they are more concerned with analyzing
and solving programming problems than with writing code for
programs. Some software engineers develop both packaged and
systems software or create customized software applications
for clients.
The title computer scientist can be applied to a wide
range of computer professionals who usually design computers
and the software that runs them, develop information technologies,
and develop and adapt principles for applying computers to
new uses. Computer scientists perform many of the same duties
as other computer professionals, but their jobs are distinguished
by the higher level of theoretical expertise and innovation
they apply to complex problems and the creation or application
of new technology.
Computer scientists can work as theorists, researchers, or
inventors. Those employed by academic institutions work in
areas ranging from complexity theory, to hardware, to programming
language design. Some work on multi-disciplinary projects,
such as developing and advancing uses of virtual reality in
robotics. Their counterparts in private industry work in areas
such as applying theory, developing specialized languages
or information technologies, or designing programming tools,
knowledge-based systems, or even computer games.
Database administrators work with database management
systems software and determine ways to organize and store
data. They set up computer databases and test and coordinate
changes to them. Since they also may design implementation
and system security, database administrators often plan and
coordinate security measures.
Computer support specialists provide technical assistance,
support, and advice to customers and users. This group includes
technical support specialists, help-desk technicians,
and customer service representatives. These troubleshooters
interpret problems and provide technical support for hardware,
software, and systems. They answer phone calls, use automated
diagnostic programs, and resolve recurrent problems. Support
specialists may work within an organization or directly for
a computer or software vendor. Increasingly, these technical
professionals work for help-desk or support services firms,
where they provide customer support on a contract basis to
clients as more of this type of work is outsourced.
Other computer scientists include workers who are involved
in analysis, application, or design of a particular system
or piece of the system. Network or computer systems
administrators, for example, design, install, and support
an organization’s LAN, WAN, network segment, Internet
or Intranet system. They maintain network hardware and software,
analyze problems, and monitor the network to ensure availability
to system users. Administrators also may plan, coordinate,
and implement network security measures. In some organizations,
computer security specialists may plan, coordinate,
and implement the organization’s information security.
These and other growing specialty occupations reflect the
increasing emphasis on client-server applications, the growth
of the Internet, the expansion of World Wide Web applications
and Intranets, and the demand for more end-user support. In
addition, growth of the Internet and expansion of the World
Wide Web, the graphical portion of the Internet, have generated
a variety of occupations relating to design, development,
and maintenance of websites and their servers. For example,
webmasters are responsible for all technical aspects
of a website, including performance issues such as speed of
access, and for approving site content. Internet or
web developers, also called web designers, are
responsible for day-to-day site design and creation.
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| Working Conditions |
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Computer systems analysts, engineers and other computer scientists
normally work in offices or laboratories in comfortable surroundings.
They usually work about 40 hours a week—the same as many
other professional or office workers. However, evening or
weekend work may be necessary to meet deadlines or solve specific
problems. Given the technology available today, telecommuting
is common for computer professionals. As networks expand,
more work, including technical support, can be done from remote
locations using modems, laptops, electronic mail, and the
Internet. For example, it is possible for technical personnel,
such as computer support specialists, to connect to a customer’s
computer remotely to identify and fix problems.
Like other workers who spend long periods of time in front
of a computer terminal typing on a keyboard, they are susceptible
to eye strain, back discomfort, and hand and wrist problems
such as carpal tunnel syndrome or cumulative trauma disorder.
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| Employment |
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Computer systems analysts, engineers, and scientists held
about 1.5 million jobs in 1998, including about 114,000 who
were self-employed. Their employment was distributed among
the following detailed occupations:
| Computer systems analysts |
617,000 |
| Computer support specialists |
429,000 |
| Computer engineers |
299,000 |
| Database administrators |
87,000 |
| All other computer scientists |
97,000 |
Although they are increasingly employed in every sector of
the economy, the greatest concentration of these workers is
in the computer and data processing services industry. Firms
in this industry provide nearly every service related to commercial
computer use on a contract basis. Services include customized
computer programming services and applications and systems
software design; the design, development, and production of
prepackaged computer software; systems integration, networking,
and reengineering services; data processing and preparation
services; information retrieval services including on-line
databases and Internet services; on-site computer facilities
management; the development and management of databases; and
a variety of specialized consulting services. Many work in
other areas, such as for government agencies, manufacturers
of computer and related electronic equipment, insurance companies,
financial institutions, and universities.
A growing number of computer professionals are employed on
a temporary or contract basis—many of whom are self-employed,
working independently as contractors or self-employed consultants.
For example, a company installing a new computer system may
need the services of several systems analysts just to get
the system running. Because not all of them would be needed
once the system is functioning, the company might contract
with systems analysts or a temporary help agency or consulting
firm. Such jobs may last from several months up to 2 years
or more. This growing practice enables companies to bring
in people with the exact skills they need to complete a particular
project, rather than having to spend time or money training
or retraining existing workers. Often, experienced consultants
then train a company’s in-house staff as a project develops.
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| Training, Other Qualifications, and Advancement |
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Due to the wide range of skills required, there are many
ways workers enter computer-related occupations. Someone staffing
a help-desk, for example, needs skills and training that differ
from those of a computer engineer designing chips or a Webmaster
responsible for creating and maintaining a web page. While
there is no universally accepted way to prepare for a job
as a computer professional, most employers place a premium
on some formal college education. A bachelor’s degree
is a prerequisite for many jobs; however, some jobs may require
only a 2-year degree. Relevant work experience also is very
important. For more complex jobs, persons with graduate degrees
are preferred.
Computer hardware engineers usually need a bachelor’s
degree in computer engineering or electrical engineering,
whereas software engineers are more likely to hold a degree
in computer science or in software engineering. Computer engineering
programs emphasize hardware and may be offered as a degree
option or in conjunction with electrical and electronics engineering.
As a result, graduates of a computer engineering program from
a school or college of engineering often find jobs designing
and developing computer hardware or related equipment, even
though they also have the skills required for developing systems
or software. For computer science, however, there is more
variation in where the department falls within an institution.
Some may be part of a school or college of liberal arts while
others may be within colleges of natural or applied sciences.
Unless the program is part of the engineering department,
the focus is on software, and graduates may work in areas
of software engineering. A Ph.D., or at least a master’s
degree, in computer science or engineering is usually required
for jobs in research laboratories or academic institutions.
For systems analyst, programmer-analyst, or even database
administrator positions, many employers seek applicants who
have a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information
science, or management information systems (MIS). Management
information systems programs are usually part of the business
school or college. These programs differ considerably from
computer science programs, emphasizing business and management
oriented coursework and business computing courses.
Despite the preference towards technical degrees, persons
with degrees in a variety of majors find employment in computer-related
occupations. The level of education and type of training employers
require depend on employers’ needs. One factor affecting
these needs is changes in technology. As demonstrated by the
current demand for workers with skills related to the Internet
or World Wide Web, employers often scramble to find workers
capable of implementing "hot" new technologies.
Another factor driving employers’ needs is the time frame
in which a project must be completed.
Most community colleges and many independent technical institutes
and proprietary schools offer an associate degree in computer
science or a related information technology field. Many of
these programs may be more geared toward meeting the needs
of local businesses and more occupation specific than those
designed for a 4-year degree. Some jobs may be better suited
to the level of training these programs offer. Computer support
specialists, for example, usually need only an associate’s
degree in a computer-related field, as well as significant
hands on experience with computers.
Employers usually look for people who have broad knowledge
of and experience with computer systems and technologies,
strong problem solving and analysis skills, and good interpersonal
skills. Courses in computer programming or systems design
offer good preparation for a job in this field. For jobs in
a business environment, employers usually want systems analysts
to have business management or closely related skills, while
a background in the physical sciences, applied mathematics,
or engineering is preferred for work in scientifically oriented
organizations. Art or graphic design skills may be desirable
for webmasters or web developers.
Jobseekers can enhance their employment opportunities by
participating in internship or co-op programs offered through
their schools. Because many people develop advanced computer
skills in one occupation and then transfer those skills into
a computer occupation, a related background in the industry
in which the job is located, such as financial services, banking,
or accounting, can be important. Others have taken computer
programming courses to supplement their study in fields such
as accounting, inventory control, or other business areas.
For example, a financial analyst proficient in computers might
become a systems analyst or computer support specialist in
financial systems development, while a computer programmer
might move into a systems analyst job.
Computer systems analysts, engineers, and scientists must
be able to think logically and have good communication skills.
They often deal with a number of tasks simultaneously; the
ability to concentrate and pay close attention to detail is
important. Although computer specialists sometimes work independently,
they often work in teams on large projects. They must be able
to communicate effectively with computer personnel, such as
programmers and managers, as well as with users or other staff
who may have no technical computer background.
Computer engineers and scientists employed in industry may
advance into managerial or project leadership positions. Those
employed in academic institutions can become heads of research
departments or published authorities in their field. Systems
analysts may be promoted to senior or lead systems analyst.
Those who show leadership ability also can become project
managers or advance into management positions such as manager
of information systems or chief information officer. Technical
support specialists may also advance by developing expertise
in an area that leads to other opportunities. For example,
those responsible for network support may advance into network
administration or network security. Computer professionals
with work experience and considerable expertise in a particular
subject area or application may find lucrative opportunities
as independent consultants or choose to start their own computer
consulting firms.
Technological advances come so rapidly in the computer field
that continuous study is necessary to keep skills up to date.
Employers, hardware and software vendors, colleges and universities,
and private training institutions offer continuing education.
Additional training may come from professional development
seminars offered by professional computing societies.
Technical or professional certification is a way to demonstrate
a level of competency or quality in a particular field. Product
vendors or software firms also offer certification and may
require professionals who work with their products to be certified.
Many are widely sought and considered industry standards.
Voluntary certification is also available through other organizations.
Professional certification may provide a job seeker a competitive
advantage.
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| Job Outlook |
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Computer systems analysts, engineers, and scientists are
expected to be the fastest growing occupations through 2008.
Employment of computing professionals is expected to increase
much faster than average as technology becomes more sophisticated
and organizations continue to adopt and integrate these technologies.
Growth will be driven by very rapid growth in computer and
data processing services, which is projected to be the fastest
growing industry in the U.S. economy. In addition, thousands
of job openings will arise annually from the need to replace
workers who move into managerial positions or other occupations
or who leave the labor force.
The demand for networking to facilitate the sharing of information,
the expansion of client/server environments, and the need
for specialists to use their knowledge and skills in a problem
solving capacity will be major factors in the rising demand
for computer systems analysts, engineers, and scientists.
Moreover, falling prices of computer hardware and software
should continue to induce more businesses to expand computerized
operations and integrate new technologies. In order to maintain
a competitive edge and operate more cost effectively, firms
will continue to demand computer professionals who are knowledgeable
about the latest technologies and able to apply them to meet
the needs of businesses.
Increasingly, more sophisticated and complex technology is
being made available to individual users who can design and
implement more of their own applications and programs. The
result is a growing demand for computer support specialists,
help-desk personnel, and technical consultants. Likewise,
the explosive growth in electronic commerce—doing business
on the World Wide Web—and the continuing need to build
and maintain databases that store critical information on
customers, inventory, and projects is fueling demand for database
administrators current on the latest technology.
New growth areas usually arise from the development of new
technologies. The expanding integration of Internet technologies
by businesses, for example, has resulted in a rising demand
for a variety of skilled professionals who can develop and
support Internet, Intranet, and web applications. The growth
of electronic commerce means more establishments use the Internet
to conduct their business on line. This translates into a
need for information technology professionals who can help
organizations use technology to communicate with employees,
clients, and consumers. Explosive growth in these areas is
also expected to fuel demand for specialists knowledgeable
about network, data, and communications security.
As technology becomes more sophisticated and complex, employers
in all areas demand a higher level of skill and expertise.
Individuals with an advanced degree in computer science, computer
engineering, or an MBA with a concentration in information
systems should enjoy very favorable employment prospects.
College graduates with a bachelor’s degree in computer
science, computer engineering, information science, or management
information systems should also enjoy favorable prospects
for employment, particularly if they have supplemented their
formal education with practical experience. Because employers
continue to seek computer professionals who can combine strong
technical skills with good interpersonal and business skills,
graduates with non-computer science degrees, who have had
courses in computer programming, systems analysis, and other
information technology areas, should also continue to find
jobs as computer professionals. In fact, individuals with
the right experience and training can work in a computer-related
occupation regardless of their major or level of formal education.
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| Earnings |
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Median annual earnings of computer systems analysts were
$52,180 in 1998. The middle 50 percent earned between $40,570
and $74,180 a year. The lowest 10 percent earned less than
$32,470 and the highest 10 percent earned more than $87,810.
Median annual earnings in the industries employing the largest
numbers of computer systems analysts in 1997 were:
| Telephone communications |
$63,300 |
| Federal Government |
56,900 |
| Computer and data processing services |
51,000 |
| State government, except education
and hospitals |
43,500 |
| Colleges and universities |
38,400 |
Median annual earnings of computer engineers were $61,910
in 1998. The middle 50 percent earned between $46,240 and
$80,500. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $37,150 and
the highest 10 percent earned more than $92,850. Median annual
earnings in the industries employing the largest numbers of
computer engineers in 1997 were:
| Computer and office equipment |
$63,700 |
| Measuring and controlling devices |
62,000 |
| Management and public relations |
59,000 |
| Computer and data processing services |
56,700 |
| Guided missiles, space vehicles, and
parts |
49,500 |
Median annual earnings of computer support specialists were
$37,120 in 1998. The middle 50 percent earned between $28,880
and $48,810. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $22,930
and the highest 10 percent earned more than $73,790. Median
annual earnings in the industries employing the largest numbers
of computer support specialists in 1997 were:
| Management and public relations |
$37,900 |
| Computer and data processing services |
36,300 |
| Computer and office equipment |
36,300 |
| Professional and commercial equipment |
35,700 |
| Personnel supply services |
35,200 |
Median annual earnings of database administrators were $47,980
in 1998. The middle 50 percent earned between $36,440 and
$69,920. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $28,320 and
the highest 10 percent earned more than $86,200. Median annual
earnings of database administrators employed in computer and
data processing services in 1997 were $49,000.
Median annual earnings of all other computer scientists were
$46,670 in 1998. The middle 50 percent earned between $34,290
and $70,250. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $26,690
and the highest 10 percent earned more than $87,730. Median
annual earnings of all other computer scientists employed
in computer and data processing services were $46,500 and
in personnel supply services, $33,600 in 1997.
Starting salaries for computer scientists or computer engineers
with a bachelor’s degree can be significantly higher
than starting salaries of bachelor’s degree graduates
in many other fields. According to the National Association
of Colleges and Employers, starting salary offers for graduates
with a bachelor’s degree in computer engineering averaged
about $45,700 in 1999; those with a master’s degree,
$58,700. Starting offers for graduates with a bachelor’s
degree in computer science averaged about $44,600; in computer
programming, about $40,800; in information sciences, about
$38,900; and in management information systems, $41,800 in
1999. Offers for those with the bachelor’s degree vary
by functional area for all types of employers, as shown in
the following tabulation.
| Hardware design and development |
$45,900 |
| Software design and development |
45,600 |
| Information systems |
41,600 |
| Systems analysis and design |
41,100 |
Offers for graduates with a master’s degree in computer
science in 1999 averaged $51,400.
According to Robert Half International, starting salaries
in 1999 ranged from $61,300 to $88,000 for database administrators,
from $42,800 to $59,800 for network administrators, and from
$27,000 to $46,000 for help-desk support staff. Starting salaries
in software development ranged from $55,000 to $80,000 for
software engineers and from $50,000 to $65,000 for software
installer/developers. Salaries for Internet-related occupations
ranged from $50,000 to $73,800 for security administrators,
$51,500 to $73,000 for webmasters, and from $47,000 to $65,500
for web developers.
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| Significant Points |
- As computer applications continue to expand, these occupations
are projected to be the fastest growing and rank among the
top 20 in the number of new jobs created over the 1998-2008
period.
- Relevant work experience and a bachelor’s degree
are prerequisites for many jobs; for more complex jobs,
a graduate degree is preferred.
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| From the Bureau of Labor Statistics |
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Copyright
© 2001 BayCon Group, Inc. All rights reserved
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