Jobs in Computer and Information Technology

Jobs in Computer and Information Technology

Thinking about a career in the computer and information technology field? There are many different types of career opportunities for people who enjoy working with computers and technology to apply their skills in the workplace.

Computers are an integral component of business operations in the modern business world. Companies of all sizes require on computer hardware, software, and networks. Some companies have in-house computer and information technology departments that support their technology infrastructures. Other organizations outsource their computer and information technology needs to companies that specialize in providing technology support services.

Computer and Peripheral Assembly Technicians:

 Companies that manufacture and market computer equipment hire people to work as Assembly Technicians. To work in this type of computer position, you need to have an understanding of computer and electronic technology and enjoy working with your hands. Positions may range from creating microprocessors to soldering motherboards to assembling printers, scanners, and other types of peripheral equipment.

Computer Hardware Technician:

 Once computers are built and in use, inevitably they will develop problems. Computer Hardware Technicians specialize in repairing computer hardware and peripheral components that make up computer systems. Many retail stores that market computer equipment hire people to work in these types of jobs. Computer consulting firms and repair services also hire people to work as computer hardware technicians.

Computer Technical Support: 

Companies that market computer hardware and software hire Technical Support Specialists to provide assistance to their customers. In most cases, Technical Support Specialists provide telephone assistance to consumers. In order to succeed in this type of position, it's necessary to have strong verbal communication skills in addition to having technology-specific troubleshooting skills.

Computer Programmer: 

Computer Programmers create, update, and modify software applications. In order to work as a computer programmer, you need to have skills working with a variety of programming languages and application development tools. Working as a computer programmer requires excellent problem solving and critical thinking abilities. These types of jobs are well suited for individuals who are very logical and detail oriented.

Network Administrator:

 Businesses that utilize computer technology in their day to day operations also rely on computer networks. Network Administrators perform a variety of functions associated with computer communications. Depending on company or client needs, network administrators may be responsible for setting up and maintaining local area networks and/or wide are networks, which may be wired or wireless. These types of jobs require knowledge of computer hardware, software, information technology security, and more.

Network Installation Technician: 

The skills required to install and set up a network are very different from those needed to create or repair computer hardware and software. Network Installation Technicians have to know how to build network cables, run cabling, splice wires, configure hubs and routers, work with networking software applications, and more. They are responsible for setting up the infrastructure that allows the components that make up an organization's computer system to interact and communicate with each other.

Chief Information Officer (CIO):

 An organization's CIO holds the top technology position in the company. In small companies, the CIO may work alone or with a very small task. In large organizations, or those that specialize in providing technology service, the CIO may oversee a sizeable staff. Individuals who hold this type of position are responsible for setting and implementing the technology standards for their companies.

Training for a Career in the Computer & IT Field

Some computer and information and computer technology jobs require degrees and others do not. Degree requirements are typically a matter of employer preference. There are formal training programs for various types of IT specializations, including Associate, Bachelor's, Master's, and doctoral degree programs. There are many types of non-degree granting training programs that focus on providing hands-on skill training. If your goal is to seek employment in this field, it can certainly be beneficial to seek formal training related to the particular type of occupation that interests you.

Computer & IT Certification

In the computer and information technology field, certification is very important for career success. Employers view formal certifications as verification of skills, so they look for people who have certifications specific to the skills they need employees to have. For entry level positions, employers typically look for candidates who hold CompTIA A+ and/or Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP) certifications.

For higher-level jobs, additional certifications can be beneficial and are sometimes required. For example, those who specialize in networking can benefit from CompTIA's Net+ Certification. Networking professionals who work with Cisco networks can benefit from Cisco Certified Network Administrator (CCNA) certification. There are many different types and of Microsoft Certification. Choosing the right one is a matter of your job function and career goals.

For computer and information technology professionals, certification is an ongoing process. It's important for those who work in this field to stay up with the latest developments in hardware and software. The best way to keep up with this rapidly advancing field is to continue to earn certifications documenting skills with the latest applications and equipment.

Compensation for Computer and Information Technology Careers

Compensation for computer and information technology workers varies widely, depending on a variety of factors. Variables that impact pay include the type of work, industry, size of company, level or responsibility, skills required to perform the job, certifications earned, and more. Some entry level positions are hourly and others are salaried. It isn't uncommon from new computer and IT professionals to start out earning $30,000 per year or less, but many people start out earning significantly more than this. Experienced professionals can earn $75,000 per year or more.