Job roles in I.T. By Jamie colclough

Software engineer Also known as application programmer, software architect, system programmer, system engineer.

What do they do? Software engineers jobs are to design and program system level software such as operating, database and embedded systems. The work involves talking to clients and colleagues to assess the systems used.

What do you need For this job you need analysis skills for programming the systems, logical thinking, teamwork for working with co workers to help design. and attention to detail. Useful qualifications are at least a BS in Computer Science.

Systems analyst Also known as Product specialist, systems engineer, solutions specialist, technical designer.

What do they do? Systems analysts investigate and analyse business problems Identify cost and time needed to implement the project.

What do you need For this job you need a mixture of business and technical knowledge and a good understanding of people. Recommended few years of experience after university

Technical support Also known as: Helpdesk support, operations analyst, problem manager

What do they do Technical support monitor the computer systems of an organization and provide support to other workers either through the phone or in person all graduates and those with an HND or foundation degree

What do you need You need a good ability to think logically and a good memory on how operating systems work. It is open to all graduates and those with an HND or foundation degree.

Network engineer Also known as: Hardware engineer, network designer.

What do they do? Network engineers are responsible for installing, maintaining and supporting computer communication networks within an organization or between organizations.

What do you need An up to date understanding of your business It is open to all graduates although these degrees help. computer science; electrical/electronic engineering; physics; mathematics; computer software/computer systems engineering.

Information systems manager

What do they do? Information systems managers are responsible for the computer systems within a company, overseeing things such as hardware installation.

What do you need Some important qualities for an information systems manager are: teamwork, leadership, the ability to work with others and to contribute open to all graduates although those studying in I.T. may give you an advantage

Software tester Also known as: Test analyst, software quality assurance tester.

What do they do? Systems analysts design new I.T. solution to improve efficiency. They work closely with the client and design product outlines

What do you need A good understanding of the software development process, good presentation skills and the ability to work well under pressure No specific courses for a software tester but university or job experience can be extremely useful in this field.