Webmaster

Job Duties

Web masters may create Web pages using the same basic skills and knowledge as Web page designers, but their responsibilities are focused on the maintenance, augmentation, and improvement of existing Web pages. They make sure that standards such as HTML validity and link liveliness are upheld, often acting as liaisons between Web page designers and system administrators. They maintain editorial control over the content, quality, and style of the Web site, and ensure that navigation and architecture are optimized.

Web masters maintain the home page of a site, as well as all of the hypertext files within the site. They assure the proper use of HTML and keep up with the latest developments in HTML standards in order to make the HTML look good on most browsers. They promote the proper use of weekly qualified relative Uniform Resource Locators. They are responsible for making sure the site has a consistent visual style, including uniform fonts, formatting, icons, images, layout techniques, and modularization. Web masters are also responsible for user support, creating page of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ), helping users fill out forms by processing responses into HTML output, and creating searchable indices.

Job Skills

Besides being analytical and technical experts, Web masters should also be flexible and willing to learn and adapt. They must be ready to deal with new or unique problems presented b expanding technologies. They should be good at communicating with programmers, users, and other operators. Because they may receive little or no direct supervision, Web masters must be able to work independently.

Income

The range of earnings for Web masters is very wide. Full-time, in-house Web masters can make between $30,000 and $100,000 per year. College students working on projects during the summer can make between $25 and $50 per hour. Self-employed Web masters make their own hours, while those employed by established firms usually work 40 hours per week, with overtime a common occurrence. Most employers offer benefits packages, including health, dental, and vision insurance plans; vacation and holiday leave; and retirement.

Training and Education

Because it is an emerging occupation, entrance requirements are not hard and fast. Employers desire individuals who are creative and innovative, and who have well-developed writing skills and experience in computer sciences, programming, electrical engineering, graphics, advertising, art, and design. The most effective preparation for this occupation may be taking college courses in computer science and graphic design. Another method is self-education, in which individuals invest in a good computer and high-speed modem, research current information on site design, and experiment by designing their own Web site.

Employment

In 2002, Web masters held about 280,000 jobs.

Job Outlook

Between 2002 and 2012, employment of Web masters is expected to increase much faster than the average. This will be due mainly to technological advancement, which will increase demand for all computer-related workers. Jobs openings will also result when Web masters retire or leave the occupation for other reasons. Despite downturns in the economy, the outlook for Web masters remains strong. Firms will continue to need more complex Internet sites, and keeping these sites running smoothly will be a top priority.

For more information on a career as a webmaster, please see our directory of schools offering Webmaster Training

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Systems Software Engineer

Computer systems software engineers design, test, and evaluate software and systems using the principles and techniques of computer science, engineering, and mathematical analysis. They deal specifically with the construction, maintenance, and future growth of computer systems. They may identify each department's technical needs, make suggestions about its direction, provide product sales and technical support, and set up intranets. They often work with a team to design new hardware, software, and systems.

Job Skills

Computer systems software engineers should be adept at problem-solving and possess well-developed analytical skills. They must be able to communicate clearly and effectively with both team members and customers. They also need to be detail-oriented and have the ability to effectively multi-task.

Income

In 2002, computer systems software engineers earned a median annual salary of $74,040. Earnings ranged from the lowest 10%, who earned less than $45,890, and the highest 10%, who earned more than $111,600. The following shows the median annual salaries for the industries employing the highest numbers of computer systems software engineers:

• Scientific research and development services - $82,270
• Software publishers - 77,120
• Navigational, measuring, and control instruments manufacturing - 76,200
• Computer systems design and related services - 73,460
• Wired telecommunications carriers - 68,510

Training and Education

Employers of computer systems software engineers often require candidates to have a bachelor's degree or higher in computer science or computer information systems, as well as a broad knowledge, and experience with, a variety of computer systems and technologies. School internship or co-op programs greatly increase a candidate's chances of employment; advanced degrees that include mathematics and systems design will do the same. Many firms have mentoring or training programs for new employees. The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) Computer Society offers professional certification as a Certified Software Development Professional. Obtaining this certification requires a bachelor's degree, relevant work experience, and a written exam.

Employment

In 2002, computer systems software engineers held about 281,000 jobs. 30%, the largest percentage, were employed in computer systems design and related services. Others worked in government agencies, manufacturers of computers and related electronic equipment, and colleges and universities.

Job Outlook

Between 2002 and 2012, computer systems software engineers are expected to be one of the fastest growing occupations. Candidates with at least a bachelor's degree in computer engineering or computer science should have great opportunities for employment. Employment of computer systems software engineers is expected to grow much faster than the average, due to the adoption and integration of new technologies by businesses and other organizations. Additional job openings will result from replacement of workers who are promoted into management, change occupations, or leave the work force for other reasons.

For more information on becoming a computer systems software engineer, please visit our Directory of Schools Offering Degrees in Computer Science

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Software Engineer

Computer applications software engineers design, test, and evaluate software and systems using the principles and techniques of computer science, engineering, and mathematical analysis. They deal specifically with general computer applications software and specialized utility programs. The programming languages they use depends on the program's objectives, and may include C, C++, Java, Fortran, and COBOL. Some computer applications software engineers specialize in systems software, packaged systems, or customized applications.

Job Skills

Computer applications software engineers should be adept at problem-solving and possess well-developed analytical skills. They must be able to communicate clearly and effectively with both team members and customers. They also need to be detail-oriented and have the ability to effectively multi-task.

Income

In 2002, computer applications software engineers earned a median annual salary of $70,900. Earnings ranged from the lowest 10%, who earned less than $44,830, and the highest 10%, who earned more than $109,800. The following shows the median annual salaries for the industries employing the highest numbers of computer applications software engineers:

• Software publishers - $76,450
• Navigational, measuring, and control instruments manufacturing - 75,890
• Computer systems design and related services - 71,890
• Architectural, engineering, and related services - 70,090
• Management of companies and enterprises - 67,260

Training and Education

Employers of computer applications software engineers often require candidates to have a bachelor's degree or higher in computer science or software engineering, as well as a broad knowledge, and experience with, a variety of computer systems and technologies. School internship or co-op programs greatly increase a candidate's chances of employment; advanced degrees that include mathematics and systems design will do the same. Many firms have mentoring or training programs for new employees. The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) Computer Society offers professional certification as a Certified Software Development Professional. Obtaining this certification requires a bachelor's degree, relevant work experience, and a written exam.

Employment

In 2002, computer applications software engineers held about 394,000 jobs. 30%, the largest percentage, were employed in computer systems design and related services. Others worked in government agencies, manufacturers of computers and related electronic equipment, and colleges and universities.

Job Outlook

Between 2002 and 2012, computer applications software engineers are expected to be one of the fastest growing occupations. Candidates with at least a bachelor's degree in computer engineering or computer science should have great opportunities for employment. Employment of computer applications software engineers is expected to grow much faster than the average, due to the adoption and integration of new technologies by businesses and other organizations. Additional job openings will result from replacement of workers who are promoted into management, change occupations, or leave the work force for other reasons.

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Network Systems Analyst

Network systems and data communications analysts design, test, and evaluate the various networks, such as local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), the Internet, intranets, and other data communications systems. They research related products and make hardware and software recommendations. They may also specialize by becoming telecommunications specialists, who focus on the relationships between computers and communications equipment; or Internet developers, Web developers, or Web designers, who design and create Web sites.

Job Skills

Network systems and data communications 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, network systems and data communications 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, network systems and data communications analysts earned a median annual salary of $58,420. Earnings ranged from the lowest 10%, who earned less than $34,880, and the highest 10%, who earned more than $92,110. The following shows the median annual salaries for the industries employing the highest numbers of network systems and data communications analysts:

• Computer systems design and related services - $65,800
• Management of companies and enterprises - 63,050
• State government - 45,110

Training and Education

Employers of network systems and data communications 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. Network systems and data communications 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, network systems and data communications analysts held about 186,000 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 network systems and data communications 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.

Please visit our section on Network Administration Training for more information on becoming a network systems and data communications systems analyst.

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Network Systems Administrator

Network or computer systems administrators work specifically on the design, installation, and support of a company or organization's LAN (local-area network), WAN (wide-area network), network segment, Internet, or intranet system. They are responsible for ensuring an organization's networks are used efficiently. They provide day-to-day administrative support, monitor systems and make adjustments as necessary, and trouble-shoot problems reported by users and automated monitoring systems. They also gather data regarding customer needs, and then evaluate their systems based on those needs. In addition, they may also be involved in the planning and implementation of network security systems.

Job Skills

Systems administrators 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, network and computer systems administrators 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 systems administrators:

• 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

Network and computer systems administrators 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.

Employment

In 2002, network and computer systems administrators 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 network and computer systems administrators 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.

Pleaes visit our section on Network Administration Training for more information on becoming a network and computer systems administrator

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Natural Sciences Manager

Natural sciences managers supervise life and physical scientists such as chemists, biologists, and physicists. They develop, plan, and direct research, design, and production. Top executives provide them with broad outlines of scientific and technical needs, which they then transform into tangible and feasible goals. These goals can range from improving manufacturing processes to advancing scientific research to developing new products. They use their administrative knowledge to propose budgets for products and to hire the necessary personnel to complete the project. They coordinate with almost every other type of manager, contractor, and supplier related to their projects.

Job Skills

Natural sciences managers need to have a strong background in and knowledge of the field they supervise. Because of the need to communicate in both technical and non-technical terms to workers, senior management, and customers, a natural sciences manager must have the work experience and formal education of a natural scientist. In addition to this technical knowledge, they must possess equally strong administrative and communication skills, which they use extensively in the job.

Income

In 2002, sales managers earned a median annual salary of $82,250. Earnings ranged from the lowest 10 percent, who earned less than $57,840, and the highest 10 percent, who earned more than $141,380. The following shows the median annual salaries for the industries employing the highest numbers of natural sciences managers:

• Scientific research and development services - $101,690
• Federal Government - 77,020

Training and Education

Almost all engineering managers start their careers working as chemists, biologists, geologists, physicists, mathematicians, or other scientists. In order to conduct research, those scientists usually obtain a Ph.D., although some researchers in applied fields may possess only a bachelor's or master's degree. In order to advance to management positions, they need to acquire administrative and communication skills. To fulfill this skill requirement, many candidates augment their master's degree education with courses in management, business, or computer technology.

Employment

In 2002, natural sciences managers, along with engineering managers, held about 257,000 jobs. About 26 percent worked in professional, scientific, and technical services industries; about 35 percent worked in manufacturing industries; and others were employed by government agencies and telecommunications and utilities companies.

Job Outlook

Between 2002 and 2012, the number of natural sciences managers is expected to increase about as fast as the average. Many jobs will result from the need to replace retiring managers. Growth will be directly proportional to the growth of the specific industry in which candidates are seeking jobs. Opportunity will be good for managers in management services and management, scientific, and technical consulting firms, due to the increasing trend toward contracting out natural sciences management services.

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Hardware Engineer

Computer hardware engineers research, design, and test computer hardware such as computer chips, circuit boards, computer systems, and accessories, including keyboards, scanners, modems, and printers. They also direct the manufacture and installation of these products. The occupation resembles electronics engineers, except for the fact that computer hardware engineers specialize in computers and related equipment.

Job Skills

Computer hardware engineers 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 hardware engineers earned a median annual salary of $72,150. Earnings ranged from the lowest 10%, who earned less than $46,190, and the highest 10%, who earned more than $114,880. The following shows the median annual salaries for the industries employing the highest numbers of computer hardware engineers:

• Semiconductor and other electronic component manufacturing - $76,600
• Computer and peripheral equipment manufacturing - 75,300
• Computer systems design and related services - 74,320

Training and Education

A bachelor's degree in engineering is required for almost all entry-level positions. Graduate degrees are essential for any faculty positions and for research and development programs, and many graduates pursue graduate degrees in engineering or business management in order to familiarize themselves with new technologies or broaden their education. Students should thoroughly investigate the curricula and accreditation of various programs because of the specialization of the programs. Requirements for admission to undergraduate engineering programs include mathematics, science, English, social studies, humanities, and computer and information technology. While programs are designed to last only 4 years, many students take 4 to 5 years to complete their studies. New employees usually are mentored under the supervision of experienced employees, and sometimes enroll in on-the-job training.

Employment

In 2002, computer hardware engineers held about 74,000 jobs. 40% were employed in computer and electronic product manufacturing, 24% were employed in professional, scientific, and technical services firms, and the rest worked in telecommunications.

Job Outlook

Between 2002 and 2012, the number of computer hardware engineers is expected to increase more slowly than the average. This will be due to intense foreign manufacturing competition, rising productivity, and increased utilization of foreign computer hardware engineering services. Job openings will result from the need to replace workers who are promoted to managerial positions, as well as those who change careers or leave the labor force. Competition will be fierce for job openings because of the increasing number of degrees that are granted in this field.

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Engineering Manager

Engineering managers develop, plan, and direct research, design, and production. They supervise engineers and other related support personnel. Top executives provide them with broad outlines of scientific and technical needs, which they then transform into tangible and feasible goals. These goals can range from improving manufacturing processes to advancing scientific research to developing new products. They use their administrative knowledge to propose budgets for products and to hire the necessary personnel to complete the project. They coordinate with almost every other type of manager, contractor, and supplier that connects with their projects.

Job Skills

Engineering managers need to have a strong background in and knowledge of engineering. Because of the need to communicate in both technical and non-technical terms to workers, senior management, and customers, an engineering manager must have the work experience and formal education of an engineer. In addition to this technical knowledge, they must possess equally strong administrative and communication skills, which they use extensively in the job.

Income

In 2002, sales managers earned a median annual salary of $90,930. The following shows the median annual salaries for the industries employing the highest numbers of engineering managers:

• Scientific instruments manufacturing - $101,290
• Management of companies and enterprises - 98,000
• Aerospace product and parts manufacturing - 97,420
• Federal Government - 90,030
• Architectural, engineering, and related services - 89,520

Training and Education

Almost all engineering managers start their careers working as an engineer. In order to be hired as an engineer, they must have completed a bachelor's degree in the field. However, in order to advance to management positions, they need to acquire administrative and communication skills. To fulfill this skill requirement, many candidates obtain a master's degree in engineering management or a master's in business administration. Some large companies provide required degree programs on site.

Employment

In 2002, engineering managers, along with natural science managers, held about 257,000 jobs. About 26 percent worked in professional, scientific, and technical services industries; about 35 percent worked in manufacturing industries; and others were employed by government agencies and telecommunications and utilities companies.

Job Outlook

Between 2002 and 2012, the number of engineering managers is expected to increase about as fast as the average. Many jobs will result from the need to replace retiring managers. Growth will be directly proportional to the growth of the specific industry in which candidates are seeking jobs. Opportunity will be good for managers in management services and management, scientific, and technical consulting firms, due to the increasing trend toward contracting out engineering management services.

For more information on becoming an engineering manager, please visit our Directory of Schools Offering Engineering Degrees

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Electronics Technician

Job Duties

Electronics technicians work on the development of a range of different types of products. They typically work under the supervision of engineers, and those who have extensive experience usually work in the area of research and development. They have knowledge of electronics circuitry, test procedures, mathematics, and physics, which they use to create sketches and layouts. They then build prototypes of the designs. They often modify the designs of circuits based on the initial prototypes, analyzing the reasons for various failures. They use an extensive range of equipment, including voltmeters, ohmmeters, signal generators, ammeters, and oscilloscopes. They run many tests on equipment and products, including those of an environmental, operational, and functional nature.

Some electronics technicians work mostly in the manufacturing sector, overseeing production quality control and designing tests to ensure quality. Other technicians work as customer engineers or field service representatives. They install equipment at work sites and interact much more with customers. They usually work with the employees of the client, training them in the proper use and maintenance of equipment. They are usually trained to operate computers, calculators, and experimental and laboratory equipment.

Job Skills

Those interested in jobs as electronics technicians should be detail-oriented. They need to exhibit great initiative and be able to work without close supervision. They need to follow verbal directions well, as well as be able to work from schematic diagrams, and sketches. They also need to have good oral and written communication skills.

Income

The average hourly wage for electronics technicians is around $18 per hour. Technicians typically work 40 hours per week, Monday through Friday. Depending on the employer, some technicians may be required to work swing and night shifts and usually earn additional pay. Benefits usually include holidays, paid vacation, sick leave, as well as health and life insurance. Some companies offer employees additional benefits, such as profit-sharing, stock purchase plans, and bonus programs.

Training and Education

Almost all employers require applicants for electronics technician positions to have formal training in the field of electronics. This training is usually in the form of an associate degree in electronics or similar training from a technical school or the Armed Forces. Employers also look for individuals who have graduated high school and have experience and background in mathematics and the physical sciences. Many technicians take additional courses even after they are hired in order to keep abreast of new technological developments. Many community colleges offer programs in electronics technology and related subjects. Some States have 4-year apprenticeship programs for electronics technicians. Technicians usually advance by demonstrating leadership ability and being promoted to lead-level and supervisory-level positions. They can also earn a bachelor's degree and advance into a wide variety of different positions in the field of engineering. Click on this link to a list of schools offering Electronics Training and to contact their admissions departments for more information.

Job Outlook

Between 2002 and 2012, employment of electronics technicians is expected to increase about as fast as the average. Electronic components have become more common and important in the manufacture of various types of products. Because of the complex nature of technicians' work, automation has had little negative effect on employment in this occupation. Opportunities will be best for those who have experience in digital and analog circuitry, microprocessor systems, or microwave equipment.

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