Database Administrator

Database administrators provide an organization with the ability to store, manage, and extract the large amounts of data generated by the Internet, electronic commerce, and other traditional sources. They work with database management systems software, identify user needs, design computer databases, test those databases, and then modify the system based on test results. They are often responsible for planning and implementing security measures within the system, an increasingly vital part of database administration.

Job Skills

Database administrators must be logical thinkers and good communicators. They must be able to multitask while, at the same time, pay close attention to minute details. Because they often work in teams, database administrators must be able to communicate efficiently and effectively with other personnel, such as programmers, managers, users, and other staff with little or no technical background.

Income

In 2002, database administrators earned a median annual salary of $55,480. Earnings ranged from the lowest 10%, who earned less than $30,750, and the highest 10%, who earned more than $92,910. The median annual salary was $66,650 in computer system design and related services, and $59,620 in management of companies and enterprises.

Training and Education

Employers of database administrators require candidates to have highly-developed skills and related education. They also emphasize the importance of broad background and knowledge, as opposed to the narrower skill sets sought by employers in the past. Database administrators enter the field through a number of different paths. Many employers require a bachelor's degree, while a 2-year degree may suffice for others. Graduate degrees are usually a prerequisite for more technically complex jobs, and relevant work experience will always increase a candidate's chances. Generally, most employers look for graduates with a bachelor's degree in computer science, information science, or management information systems. However, when employers are desperately seeking workers knowledgeable in extremely new, cutting edge technologies, formal education and experience requirements can often be waived.

Employment

In 2002, database administrators held about 110,000 jobs. The largest numbers of jobs were found in computer systems design and related services. Many computer systems analysts were employed by Internet service providers, web search portals, and data-processing, hosting, and related services firms. Others worked for government, manufacturers of computer and electronic products, insurance companies, financial institutions, and universities.

Job Outlook

Between 2002 and 2012, the number of database administrators is expected to increase much faster than the average. This will be due to continued adoption and integration of new technologies, rapid growth in computer system design and related services, and the need to replace workers who leave the labor force or move to other occupations and positions. Demand for this occupation also will be fueled by increased use of Internet applications in business, the growth of electronic commerce, the introduction of Wireless Internet.

For more information on becoming a database administrator, please visit our Directory of Schools Offering Oracle Training

http://www.education-online-search.com/articles/careers/computer_careers/database_administrator

Computer Systems Analyst

Computer systems analysts assist organizations in extracting maximum performance and benefit from its equipment, personnel, and business processes. They solve computer problems, apply technology, develop new computer systems, or streamline existing systems. They usually work with one specific type of system, such as business or accounting, and use techniques like structured analysis, data modeling, information engineering, mathematical model building, sampling, and cost accounting to design those systems. Once a system is designed, they prepare tests, observe the results, write charts and diagrams for the programmers to follow, and work with programmers to debug the system as necessary.

Job Skills

Computer systems analysts must be logical thinkers and good communicators. They must be able to multitask while, at the same time, pay close attention to minute details. Because they often work in teams, computer systems analysts must be able to communicate efficiently and effectively with other personnel, such as programmers, managers, users, and other staff with little or no technical background.

Income

In 2002, computer systems analysts earned a median annual salary of $62,980. Earnings ranged from the lowest 10%, who earned less than $39,270, and the highest 10%, who earned more than $93,400. The following shows the median annual salaries for the industries employing the highest numbers of computer systems analysts:

• Federal Government - $68,370
• Computer systems design and related services - 67,690
• Data processing, hosting, and related services - 64,560
• Management of companies and enterprises - 63,390
• Insurance carriers - 59,510

Training and Education

Employers of computer systems analysts require candidates to have highly-developed skills and related education. They also emphasize the importance of broad background and knowledge, as opposed to the narrower skill sets sought by employers in the past. Computer systems analysts enter the field through a number of different paths. Many employers require a bachelor's degree, while a 2-year degree may suffice for others. Graduate degrees are usually a prerequisite for more technically complex jobs, and relevant work experience will always increase a candidate's chances. Generally, most employers look for graduates with a bachelor's degree in computer science, information science, or management information systems. However, when employers are desperately seeking workers knowledgeable in extremely new, cutting edge technologies, formal education and experience requirements can often be waived.

Employment

In 2002, computer systems analysts held about 468,000 jobs. The largest numbers of jobs were found in computer systems design and related services. Many computer systems analysts were employed by Internet service providers, web search portals, and data-processing, hosting, and related services firms. Others worked for government, manufacturers of computer and electronic products, insurance companies, financial institutions, and universities.

Job Outlook

Between 2002 and 2012, the number of computer systems analysts is expected to increase much faster than the average. This will be due to continued adoption and integration of new technologies, rapid growth in computer system design and related services, and the need to replace workers who leave the labor force or move to other occupations and positions. Demand for this occupation also will be fueled by increased use of Internet applications in business, the growth of electronic commerce, the introduction of Wireless Internet.

http://www.education-online-search.com/articles/careers/computer_careers/computer_systems_analyst

Computer Support Specialist

Computer support specialists help customers and other computer users by providing them with technical assistance, support, and advice. They perform a range of duties, from answering telephone calls and resolving recurrent difficulties, to analyzing problems using automated diagnostic programs. The occupation is divided into two categories: technical support specialists and help-desk technicians. Technical support specialists answer telephone calls from users of their company's computers. They may use automated diagnostics programs, write training manuals, train users, or manage the daily performance of their company's computer systems. Help-desk technicians help computer users with some of the questions not answered in instruction manuals. They communicate with customers via telephone or email regarding hardware and software challenges. They listen to the customer, diagnose the problem, and guide the customer through a step-by-step solution to the problem.

Job Skills

Computer support specialists should be interested in helping others. They need to have good problem-solving and analytical skills, and they need to be able to communicate efficiently and effectively via email, in writing, or even face-to-face. Well-developed writing skills can prove valuable in preparing manuals for employees or customers.

Income

In 2002, computer support specialists earned a median annual salary of $39,100. Earnings ranged from the lowest 10%, who earned less than $23,060, and the highest 10%, who earned more than $67,550. The following shows the median annual salaries for the industries employing the highest numbers of computer support specialists:

• Professional and commercial equipment and supplies wholesaler - $46,740
• Software publishers - 42,870
• Computer systems design and related services - 41,110
• Management of companies and enterprises - 40,850
• Elementary and secondary schools - 33,480

Training and Education

Computer support specialists enter the occupation from many different angles. Many employers prefer candidates with formal college education, such as a bachelor's degree in computer science or information systems, or a related associate degree. However, a large number of companies are loosening these restrictions due to the extraordinarily high demand for these types of positions. For those candidates without a college degree, practical experience or certification will be essential. A variety of certification programs offered by vendors and product makers may help some candidates qualify for entry-level positions. In some cases, candidates with relevant, real-world experience may bypass formal education and certification requirements.

Employment

In 2002, computer support specialists held about 507,000 jobs. 35%, the largest percentage, were employed in professional and business services industries, mostly in computer systems design and related services. Others worked in bands, government agencies, insurance companies, educational institutions, and wholesale and retail vendors of computers, office equipment, appliances, and home electronic equipment.

Job Outlook

Between 2002 and 2012, the number of computer support specialists is expected to increase faster than the average. Companies and other organizations will continue to adopt and integrate new computer-driven technologies, making the computer system design and related services industry one of the fastest growing industries in the U.S. economy. The increased need for technical assistance will stem from the increasing complexity of computers and software, while mobility technologies like wireless Internet will also add to this demand. Explosive growth in electronic commerce will fuel a strong, specific demand for employees knowledgeable about network, data, and communications security.

http://www.education-online-search.com/articles/careers/computer_careers/computer_support_specialist

Computer Security Specialist

Job Duties

Computer security specialists are responsible for planning, coordinating, implementing, installing, and maintaining their employer's computer and information security system. They usually train the company's employees or other users regarding computer security. They install security software, oversee the computer network, and check for breaches in security. If a breach occurs, they respond to the cyber attacker and may compile evidence and data that can be used against the perpetrator in future litigation. Computer security specialists are part of a growing trend in the computer services occupations that includes client-server applications, the expansion of the Internet and intranet applications, and the demand for more end-user support.

Job Skills

Computer security specialists need to have good problem-solving and analytical skills, and they need to be able to communicate efficiently and effectively via email, in writing, or even face-to-face. They should be interested in helping others. Well-developed writing skills can prove valuable in preparing manuals for employees or customers.

Income

In 2002, computer security specialists earned a median annual salary of $39,100. Earnings ranged from the lowest 10%, who earned less than $23,060, and the highest 10%, who earned more than $67,550. The following shows the median annual salaries for the industries employing the highest numbers of computer security specialists:

• Wired telecommunications carriers: $59,710
• Computer systems design and related services: $58,790
• Management of companies and enterprises: $58,610
• Data processing, hosting, and related services: $56,140
• Elementary and secondary schools: $48,350

Training and Education

Computer security specialists enter the occupation from many different angles. Many employers prefer candidates with formal college education, such as a bachelor's degree, although not necessarily a computer-related degree. However, a large number of companies are loosening these restrictions due to the extraordinarily high demand for these types of positions. For those candidates without a college degree, practical experience or certification will be essential. A variety of certification programs offered by vendors and product makers may help some candidates qualify for entry-level positions. In some cases, candidates with relevant, real-world experience may bypass formal education and certification requirements. Click on this link to a list of schools offering Computer Security Training and to contact their admissions departments for more information.

Employment

In 2002, computer security specialists held about 251,000 jobs. 35%, the largest percentage, were employed in professional and business services industries, mostly in computer systems design and related services. Others worked in bands, government agencies, insurance companies, educational institutions, and wholesale and retail vendors of computers, office equipment, appliances, and home electronic equipment.

Job Outlook

Between 2002 and 2012, the number of computer security specialists is expected to increase much faster than the average. Companies and other organizations will continue to adopt and integrate new computer-driven technologies, making the computer system design and related services industry one of the fastest growing industries in the U.S. economy. The increased need for technical assistance will stem from the increasing complexity of computers and software, while mobility technologies like wireless Internet will also add to this demand. Explosive growth in electronic commerce will fuel a strong, specific demand for employees knowledgeable about network, data, and communications security.

http://www.education-online-search.com/articles/careers/computer_careers/computer_security_specialist

Computer Scientist

Computer scientists tackle complex problems and create new technologies using high levels of theoretical expertise and innovation. Some are employed by academic institutions and may work on projects ranging from complexity theory and programming-language development, to virtual reality or robot design. Others work in the private sector applying theory, developing specialized languages, or designing knowledge-based systems and computer games.

Job Skills

Computer scientists must be logical thinkers and good communicators. They must be able to multitask while, at the same time, pay close attention to minute details. Because they often work in teams, computer scientists must be able to communicate efficiently and effectively with other personnel, such as programmers, managers, users, and other staff with little or no technical background.

Income

In 2002, computer scientists earned a median annual salary of $77,760. Earnings ranged from the lowest 10%, who earned less than $42,890, and the highest 10%, who earned more than $121,650. The median annual salary was $78,70 in computer system design and related services.

Training and Education

Employers of computer scientists require candidates to have highly-developed skills and related education. They also emphasize the importance of broad background and knowledge, as opposed to the narrower skill sets sought by employers in the past. Doctoral degrees are often required, and relevant work experience will always increase a candidate's chances. Generally, most employers look for graduates with at least a bachelor's degree in computer science, information science, or management information systems. However, when employers are desperately seeking workers knowledgeable in extremely new, cutting edge technologies, formal education and experience requirements can often be partially waived.

Employment

In 2002, computer scientists held about 23,000 jobs. The largest numbers of jobs were found in computer systems design and related services. Many computer scientists were employed by Internet service providers, web search portals, and data-processing, hosting, and related services firms. Others worked for government, manufacturers of computer and electronic products, insurance companies, financial institutions, and universities.

Job Outlook

Between 2002 and 2012, the number of computer scientists is expected to increase much faster than the average. This will be due to continued adoption and integration of new technologies, rapid growth in computer system design and related services, and the need to replace workers who leave the labor force or move to other occupations and positions. Demand for this occupation also will be fueled by increased use of Internet applications in business, the growth of electronic commerce, the introduction of Wireless Internet.

http://www.education-online-search.com/articles/careers/computer_careers/computer_scientist

Computer Science Career

Computer Scientists work as theorists, researchers and inventors. They are very necessary to the computing industry at present, as new technologies are needed to improve the interfaces between the internet and computing, and new ideas come along to make the most of interactions between technologies.

Many computer scientists work in academic institutions as researchers and developers, pushing forward the frontier of hardware and software design and applications, working on materials science to improve capabilities and performance, and looking at theoretical algorithms to give new applications and new technologies. Some work on multi-disciplinary projects, for it is on the interface between known disciplines where many of the new ideas arise. Some computer scientists work in private industry to apply theory, developing new software and hardware techniques and applications, and developing known technologies to integrate with present products.

Computer scientists are usually highly qualified, entering the early stages of this profession with a Bachelors degree in Computer Science, and often taking research degrees in a chosen area of computer science. This is a challenging and fascinating area to work in, and many computer scientists can progress to become project managers, and take part in departmental management of the technology process.

Earnings are good, with median salaries being in the area of $70,000 in the year 2000 according to the US Department of Labor. There is always demand for talented and hardworking computer scientists, and this is likely to increase in the next ten years as computer technology and the impact of networking creates new and different classifications of products.

http://www.education-online-search.com/articles/careers/computer_careers/computer_science_career

Computer Programming Career

Although it is possible to become a computer programmer without holding a degree, it is difficult to enter into the industry, and once there, job prospects are much poorer than for other well-qualified programmers. Most people who become computer programmers study for a 2 or 4 year degree, learning the basic generic skills and knowledge that future training is based on; according to the US Department of Labor some 48% of entrants to the industry have a Bachelor’s degree. They acquire knowledge of the computing industry, and for many of them the contacts that they make amongst fellow students, staff and industry related people are invaluable for their future career.

The computing industry is changing, and increasingly companies buy software packages for their applications. Software houses then engineer the interface so that the packages suit individual clients. This has reduced the number of computer programmers in the industry, and the demand for them, but as applications become more widespread, and new hardware and computing techniques come online, programmers will find that programming and related skills will be in increasing demand.

Earnings in the industry are around $58,000, with the highest 10% earning more than $93,000 according to the US Department of Labor. People entering the industry with a Bachelor’s degree can expect a starting salary of around $48,000. This is an interesting career with good prospects, so it is worth entering at the right level and making the most of your abilities.

http://www.education-online-search.com/articles/careers/computer_careers/computer_programming_career

Computer Programmer

Computer programmers create the instructions that tell computers what to do. They write, test, and maintain programs, and also conceive, design, and test logical, computer-based problem-solving structures. The specific roles of programmers vary as widely as the programs themselves. However, they are usually grouped into two categories: applications programmers and systems programmers. Applications programmers write programs that perform a specific function, or revise existing packages software. Systems programmers focus on an entire computer system, creating programs that control how the network, workstations, and central processing unit of the system handle their various tasks. In some smaller organizations, programmer-analysts may fill the roles of both applications programmer and systems programmer.

Job Skills

Computer programmers should be logical, detail-oriented thinkers. They need to possess patience, persistence, the ability to work under pressure, ingenuity, creativity, and imagination. They should be familiar with abstract concepts and technical analysis, and should be comfortable communicating with other team members and with users.

Income

In 2002, computer programmers earned a median annual salary of $60,290. Earnings ranged from the lowest 10%, who earned less than $35,080, and the highest 10%, who earned more than $96,860. The following shows the median annual salaries for the industries employing the highest numbers of computer programmers:

• Professional/commercial equipment and supplies wholesalers - $70,440
• Software publishers - 66,870
• Computer systems design and related services - 65,640
• Management of companies and enterprises - 59,850
• Data processing, hosting, and related services - 59,300

Training and Education

Because of the growing pool of qualified applicants, the educational standards for computer programmers have been rising. Employers usually require bachelor's degrees in computer or information science, mathematics, engineering, or the physical sciences, although certain positions may only require a 2-year degree or certificate. Associate degrees offered by community colleges and technical institutes are an increasingly popular option. Some computer programmers who are college graduates and wish to change careers or advance in their current careers may choose to return to a 2-year program for additional training. It is important for computer programmers to be familiar with traditional languages. However, employers are increasingly seeking candidates with knowledge of C++ and Java, as well as fourth- and fifth-generation languages that involve graphic user interface and systems programming.

Employment

In 2002, computer programmers held about 499,000 jobs. The largest numbers of jobs are found in computer systems design and related services and in software publishers, and large numbers can also be found in management of companies and enterprises, telecommunications companies, manufacturers of computer and electronic equipment, financial institutions, insurance carriers, educational institutions, and government agencies.

Job Outlook

Between 2002 and 2012, the number of computer programmers is expected to increase about as fast as the average. Data processing service firms, software houses, and computer consulting businesses will generate the most demand. Changing technology will create jobs for computer programmers because businesses will need to convert to new computer languages and systems. Employers will look for candidates who can work with client/server, Web-based, and wireless environments, and who have strong object-oriented programming capabilities.

http://www.education-online-search.com/articles/careers/computer_careers/computer_programmer

Computer Operator

Computer operators work with mainframes, minicomputers, or personal computer networks. They make sure these types of machines are used properly and efficiently by various users. Their duties vary greatly, but usually they control a mainframe digital computer or a group of minicomputers, using written instructions from programmers, users, or operations managers. Computer operators may load tapes, disks or paper into computer equipment, monitor and respond to error messages, and keep detailed logs of their activities while at their workstation. They may also assist systems analysts with the maintenance and debugging of the system. An increasing number of computer programmers are working on personal computes or minicomputers linked together by local area networks or multi-user systems.

Job Skills

Besides being analytical and technical experts, computer operators should also be flexible and willing to learn and adapt. They must be ready to deal with new or unique problems that a computer is not designed to handle. They should be good at communicating with programmers, users, and other operators. Because they may receive little or no direct supervision, computer operators must be able to work independently.

Income

In 2002, computer operators earned a median annual salary of $29,650. Earnings ranged from the lowest 10%, who earned less than $18,610, and the highest 10%, who earned more than $46,780. The following shows the median annual salaries for the industries employing the highest numbers of computer operators:

• Management of companies and enterprises - $32,770
• Computer systems design and related services - 30,280
• General medical and surgical hospitals - 28,310
• Data processing, hosting, and related services - 27,440
• Depository credit intermediation - 24,160

Training and Education

The main quality employers of computer operators look for in a candidate is prior work experience using the specific type of equipment the employer uses. Computer operators usually receive on-the-job training, the length of which varies with the type of job and the prior experience of the employee. Formal training is becoming more common as a requirement, due to changes in technology and an increase in automation. A degree through a community or technical college is recommended. The U.S. Armed Forces, as well as some computer manufacturers, offer formal training in computer operation. For those interested in advancement to managerial positions, a bachelor's degree can be very useful.

Employment

In 2002, computer operators held about 499,000 jobs. Industries employing computer operators included government, wholesale and retail trade, manufacturing, data processing serves and finance and insurance. Because more companies are choosing to contract out their data processing operations, computer operators will be employed by firms in computer systems design and related services.

Job Outlook

Between 2002 and 2012, the number of computer operators is expected to decline. Advances in technology have yielded computer hardware and software that is capable of automating more tasks, and that is considerably more user-friendly. This has greatly reduced the need for computer operators. Because of this, computer operators will monitor a greater number of systems and be responsible for solving more complicated problems. Some computer operators whose jobs become obsolete due to automation may be reassigned to support staff, while others who have updated their skills and participated in training may move into network administration and technical support.

Computer operators work with mainframes, minicomputers, or personal computer networks. They make sure these types of machines are used properly and efficiently by various users. Their duties vary greatly, but usually they control a mainframe digital computer or a group of minicomputers, using written instructions from programmers, users, or operations managers. Computer operators may load tapes, disks or paper into computer equipment, monitor and respond to error messages, and keep detailed logs of their activities while at their workstation. They may also assist systems analysts with the maintenance and debugging of the system. An increasing number of computer programmers are working on personal computes or minicomputers linked together by local area networks or multi-user systems.

Job Skills

Besides being analytical and technical experts, computer operators should also be flexible and willing to learn and adapt. They must be ready to deal with new or unique problems that a computer is not designed to handle. They should be good at communicating with programmers, users, and other operators. Because they may receive little or no direct supervision, computer operators must be able to work independently.

Income

In 2002, computer operators earned a median annual salary of $29,650. Earnings ranged from the lowest 10%, who earned less than $18,610, and the highest 10%, who earned more than $46,780. The following shows the median annual salaries for the industries employing the highest numbers of computer operators:

• Management of companies and enterprises - $32,770
• Computer systems design and related services - 30,280
• General medical and surgical hospitals - 28,310
• Data processing, hosting, and related services - 27,440
• Depository credit intermediation - 24,160

Training and Education

The main quality employers of computer operators look for in a candidate is prior work experience using the specific type of equipment the employer uses. Computer operators usually receive on-the-job training, the length of which varies with the type of job and the prior experience of the employee. Formal training is becoming more common as a requirement, due to changes in technology and an increase in automation. A degree through a community or technical college is recommended. The U.S. Armed Forces, as well as some computer manufacturers, offer formal training in computer operation. For those interested in advancement to managerial positions, a bachelor's degree can be very useful.

Employment

In 2002, computer operators held about 499,000 jobs. Industries employing computer operators included government, wholesale and retail trade, manufacturing, data processing serves and finance and insurance. Because more companies are choosing to contract out their data processing operations, computer operators will be employed by firms in computer systems design and related services.

Job Outlook

Between 2002 and 2012, the number of computer operators is expected to decline. Advances in technology have yielded computer hardware and software that is capable of automating more tasks, and that is considerably more user-friendly. This has greatly reduced the need for computer operators. Because of this, computer operators will monitor a greater number of systems and be responsible for solving more complicated problems. Some computer operators whose jobs become obsolete due to automation may be reassigned to support staff, while others who have updated their skills and participated in training may move into network administration and technical support.vvv

http://www.education-online-search.com/articles/careers/computer_careers/computer_operator

Computer Information Systems Manager

Computer and information systems managers consult with the management of a company or other organization to develop technical and business goals, and make plans to accomplish these goals utilizing technology. They oversee systems analysts, computer programmers, support specialists, and other computer-related workers. They plan, or are involved with many different activities within the organization, including installation and upgrading of hardware and software, programming and systems design, development of computer networks, implementation of Internet and intranet sites, and the upkeep and maintenance of security systems. Specialists within the occupation include chief technology officers, who evaluate new technologies; management information systems directors, who manage the entire information system of an organization; project managers, who oversee information technology projects; and Local Area Network/Wide Area Network (LAN/WAN) managers, who design and administrate an organization's LANs and WANs.

Job Skills

Besides the necessary technical and analytical skills, computer and information systems managers should have well-developed business skills, meaning a background in either consulting or business management. Largely due to the expansion of electronic commerce, many computer and information systems managers are responsible for making critical business decisions. They also need to have strong people skills and leadership qualities, as well as a good sense of management processes and the needs of customers.

Income

In 2002, computer and information systems managers earned a median annual salary of $85,240. Earnings ranged from the lowest 10%, who earned less than $47,440, and the highest 10%, who earned more than $140,440. The following shows the median annual salaries for the industries employing the highest numbers of computer and information systems managers:

• Computer systems design and related services - $94,240
• Management of companies and enterprises - 91,710
• Insurance carriers - 89,920
• Depository credit intermediation - 75,160
• Colleges, universities, and professional schools - 68,100

Training and Education

Computer and information systems managers usually have experience in another computer occupation, usually as a systems analyst, computer support specialist, or programmer. A bachelor's degree is usually a minimum requirement, although more companies are requiring a master's degree in business administration with an emphasis in technology. Employers look for candidates with a high degree of technical knowledge and communication skill because computer and information systems managers are often called upon to explain the work in very technical language when talking to workers, and in non-technical language when communicating with other management.

Employment

In 2002, computer and information systems managers held about 284,000 jobs. The industry employing the highest number of computer operators was computer systems design and related services, which includes customer computer programming services; computer systems integration design services; computer facilities management services, including computer systems or data-processing facilities support services for clients; and other computer-related services, such as disaster recovery services and software installation.

Job Outlook

Between 2002 and 2012, the number of computer and information systems managers is expected to increase much faster than the average. This will be due to the widespread installation of sophisticated computer networks and the increase in more complex Internet and intranet sites. Technology in general will boost the increase of most computer-related workers, and firms will also have the need to replace managers who change careers or leave the labor force. Companies will be willing to hire managers who prove they can keep the company's computer systems running smoothly. As electronic commerce grows, the need for increased security will also grow. More computer and information systems managers will be involved in identifying the vulnerabilities of systems and implementing security measures to protect systems from hackers, viruses, and other acts of cyber-terrorism.

http://www.education-online-search.com/articles/careers/computer_careers/computer_information_systems_manager

Become A CIO

This article provides an overview of CIO careers and the requirements to become a CIO. This article will outline a CIO's job duties, salary levels, and employment prospects, as well as discuss the necessary skills, training, educational requirements, and certification requirements.

CIO Job Duties

A chief information officer (CIO) may be known by many titles, such as CIO, CIO and vice president, chief technical officer (CTO), vice president or director of information technology. Whatever the title, a CIO is responsible for the direction and operations of an organization's information technology department.

Most CIOs are considered to be part of an organization's senior management team, and may be corporate officers. CIOs typically report to an organization's chief executive officer (CEO), followed closely by the chief financial officer (CFO). Where a CIO reports reflects the relative importance that an organization places upon information technology.

The job duties of a CIO can include:

• Participating in an organization's strategic business planning processes
• Setting overall technology direction and goals in support of business operations and strategic directions
• Delivering technology applications and infrastructure to support business operations
• Procuring and/or development of technology applications to support business operations
b
• Managing people
• Managing important vendor relationships
• Managing business operations
• Planning and managing substantial budgets
• Researching and staying abreast of the latest technology trends
• Researching and staying abreast of the latest industry trends
• Evaluating technology
• Attending business and technology conferences

As with any senior executive job, the CIO's job can be very demanding. Long hours, including evenings and weekends, and frequent travel, can be a normal part of the job.

CIO Job Skills

As a senior executive, a CIO is expected to have a broad and varied range of skills. These include:

• Effective communications skills
• Strategic thinking and planning skills
• Understanding business processes and operations
• Understanding business strategy
• Understanding technology trends and market forces
• Understanding how to apply technology to business processes, operations, and strategy
• Leadership and motivation skills
• Self-confidence
• Managerial skills
• Basic business skills and judgement
• Ability to assimilate and evaluate large amounts of information
• Decision making skills
• Negotiation skills
• Financial management skills
• Sales Skills
• Thorough knowledge of technology operations
• Technology proficiency
• Political skills

CIO Income

CIO pay varies greatly depending on the size and type of organization, the scope of their responsibility, and the importance of information technology to their organization. CIO compensation often consists of base salary, bonus, and in many cases, stock or stock options. Other benefits enjoyed by top executives may also be part of their compensation package.

Some CIOs make in excess of $1 million per year in total compensation. Average income for CIOs is, however, around $180,000, as reported in a 2004 CIO Research Report from CIOState of the CIO survey indicated that CIOs in the education industry made the least, while CIOs in the wholesale/retail/distribution, finance, and insurance industries were among the top paid. magazine. That same

CIO compensation in large organizations, can, on average, be $100,000 or more higher per year than compensation for CIOs in small organizations.

Training and Education Required to Become a CIO

The formal education for CIOs can vary greatly. No specific degree is an absolute requirement for CIOs. The vast majority of CIOs, close to seventy five percent, come from information technology backgrounds. Because of this, it is safe to assume that most CIO's have formal training in technology or technology-related fields. Other backgrounds that are common for CIOs are consulting, business operations, and finance/accounting. Most CIOs have a minimum of a bachelors degree, which is true of most top executives. Many have MBAs and other advanced degrees.

Click here for more more information on Business Schools and the programs that they offer, or on the following line for information on schools offering IT training.

Many CIOs may have obtained technical certifications during their career. By the time they have attained the CIO position, these certifications may have lapsed.

CIO Employment

Almost every organization of substantial size has an individual at a director level or above who is responsible for the organization's information technology direction and operations.

CIO Job Outlook

Because of the high pay and prestige of top management positions, competition for top executive positions such as CIO is very keen. While numerous openings can be expected as executives transfer to other positions, start their own businesses, or retire, many people will be attracted to the available positions.

CIO employment growth can be expected to be about as fast as the average for all occupations through most of the next decade. Certain industries, such as professional services, scientific services, technical services, administrative services, and support services can expect to see faster than average employment growth. Others, such as some manufacturing industries, can expect employment declines.

http://www.education-online-search.com/articles/careers/computer_careers/become_a_cio

A+ Certified Technician

The CompTIA (Computer Technology Industry Association) certification program for information technology technicians is a really good way to get into the IT industry. A+ certification is entry level certification of IT skills, proving that you have a broad base of knowledge and competency in core hardware and operating system technologies including installation, configuration, diagnosing, preventative maintenance and basic networking.

The advantages of gaining A+ certification are great – this is an independent, vendor-neutral certification, so it does not limit the systems you can work on. It gives employers a measure of your capabilities, a basis for job status, and a guarantee of capability to give clients. Many companies using technology insist on certification for their IT technicians.

A+ certification also gives you a basis for further training and certification, because the skills and knowledge you gain are generic, and can be applied to a number of different situations. The A+ certificate is a pre-qualifier for other certification from CompTIA.

Salaries are good for Computer technicians, according to the US Department of Labor support staff median earnings are around the $35,000 mark, with systems administrators earning around $51,000. Promotion is fast, as most businesses are using IT networks, and demand for qualified and experienced technicians will increase rapidly during the nest ten years.

http://www.education-online-search.com/articles/careers/computer_careers/aplus_certified_technician