| The
rapid spread of computers and information technology 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, computer scientists, and computer
programmers—include a wide range of computer specialists. Job tasks
and occupational titles used to describe these 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. Some systems
analysts also are referred to as systems developers or systems
architects.
Computer scientists work as
theorists, researchers, or inventors. 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.
Those employed by academic institutions work in areas ranging from
complexity theory, to hardware, to programming language design. Some
work on multidisciplinary projects, such as developing and advancing
uses of virtual reality, in human-computer interaction, or 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.
Computer programmers write, test, and
maintain the detailed instructions, called programs, that computers
must follow to perform their functions. They also conceive, design,
and test logical structures for solving problems by computer. Many
technical innovations in programming—advanced computing technologies
and sophisticated new languages and programming tools—have redefined
the role of a programmer and elevated much of the programming work
done today. Job titles and descriptions may vary, depending on the
organization. In this occupational statement, computer programmer
refers to individuals whose main job function is programming; this
group has a wide range of responsibilities and educational
backgrounds.
Career Sources and Professional
Organizations
Sample Job Titles
| Entry
Level: |
Experienced: |
| |
Actuary |
|
Consultant |
| |
Assistant
Analyst |
|
Programming
Supervisor |
| |
Database
Administrator |
|
Software
Engineer |
| |
LAN
Administrator |
|
Statistician |
| |
Programmer
Analyst |
|
Systems
Analyst |
Enhancing Employability
- Participate in internships
- Advanced computer skills
- Attention to detail
- Strong problem-solving and
analytical skills
- Strong communication &
interpersonal skills
- Strong ability to work under
pressure
- Strong research skills
- MBA helpful
- Technical & professional
certification helpful
|
