Today, it seems that just about everything or everyone uses computers at the workplace. Administrative assistants use computers for word processing; Accountants use computers to record financial transactions on a spreadsheet, auto mechanics use computers for engine diagnostics, architects use computers to draw blueprints, teachers use computers to automate grading, and the list goes on.
In fact, it is difficult to find a job nowadays that does not make use of computers. But who creates the software that’s used by all these workers? Who designs their hardware, configures their networks, and troubleshoots their technical problems?
In this article, you will learn about special people of workers within the IT industry called IT Professionals. You’ll find out who they are, what they do, who employs them, and how much they’re paid. Maybe you’ll even get a glimpse of your own future if you’re considering a career in IT.
Who is an IT Professional?
An IT Professional is any person whose primary occupation involves the design, configuration, analyse, development, modification, testing, or security of computer hardware and software.
What kind of jobs are available to IT Professionals?
Many IT professionals work in Information Technology (IT) Department. The area of the business or organisation responsible for computers, data, software, and support services. An IT department is also responsible for prioritising a company’s or an organisation’s information needs, modifying old systems as necessary, and creating new systems.
Mostly, an IT department is headed by a Chief Information Officer or IT Manager. The following describes typical responsibilities and skills for various IT Professionals.
Network Administrator
A Network Administrator plans to install and maintain a business’ or organisation’s network infrastructure. These specialists also provide network accounts and access rights to approved users. They troubleshoot connectivity problems and respond to requests from network users. Network administrators might be responsible for maintaining the security of a network, Keeping things up-to-date as needed and monitoring the network for security breach or vulnerabilities.
Database Administrator
A Database Administrator (DBA) analyses a company’s data to determine the most effective way to collect, store and organise data. Database administrators create databases, data entry forms, and reports. They also define backup procedures, provide access to authorised users, troubleshoot, and supervise the day-to-day use of a database.
Systems Analyst
A System Analyst investigates the requirements of a business or organisation, its employees, and its customers in order to plan and implement new or improved computer services. This job requires the ability to identify problems and research technical solutions.
Good communication skills are essential for interacting with managers and other employees. A systems analyst is a person who uses analysis and design techniques to solve business problems using information technology. Systems analysts identify the organisation’s improvement needs and then design systems to implement them, and train and motivate workers to use the systems.
Computer Programmer
A Computer Programmer or sometimes called developer, coder or software engineer; designs, write codes and tests computer programs. In addition, programmers could modify existing programs to meet new requirements or eliminate software bugs. Computer programmers use computer programming languages to create programs e.g. Python, C++, C#, C, Objective C etc.
Computer programming requires concentration and a good memory to remember details that pertain to a programming project. Programming projects range from entertainment and games to business and productivity applications. Programmers get satisfaction from developing efficient ways to make a computer perform specific tasks and routines.
Security Specialist
A Security Specialist analyses a computer system’s vulnerability to threats from viruses, worms, unauthorised access, and physical damage. Security specialists install and configure firewalls and antivirus software. They also work with management and employees to develop policies and procedures to protect computer equipment and data.
Computer security is interrupted by “crises” when a virus hits or a security breach is discovered. A security specialist must have a wide-ranging knowledge of computers as well as communication protocols that can be applied for a quick resolution to a crisis that occurs.
Technical Support
A Technical Support specialist troubleshoots hardware and software problems. Some technical support specialists work in-house with company employees, whereas others provide remote phone support for customers.
Good interpersonal skills and patience are required for this job. Technical support may be delivered over by e-mail, live support on a website. Larger organisations have internal technical support available to their staff for computer-related problems.
Website Designer
A Website Designer creates, modifies, tests and maintains a website. A good sense of design and artistic talent are required for this job, along with expectations to have an awareness of usability and understanding of how people use graphical user interfaces.
The different areas of web design include web graphic design; interface design; authoring, including standardised code and proprietary software; user experience design; and search engine optimization. Often many individuals will work together as a team in the design process, although some designers will cover them all.
Familiarity with web tools, such as HTML, CSS, JavaScript, PHP and web graphics is becoming more important for this job, and some knowledge of computer programming and database management could also be required.
Computer Technician
A computer repair technician is a person who repairs and maintains computers and servers. The technician’s responsibilities may extend to include building or configuring new hardware, installing and updating software packages, and creating and maintaining computer networks.
Information Technology Consultant
An IT Consultant is a field of activity that focuses on advising organisations on how best to use information technology (IT) in achieving their business objectives. In addition to providing advice, IT consultancies often estimate, manage, implement, deploy, and administer IT systems on behalf of their client organisations – a practice known as “outsourcing“. Contracting out a business process to another party.
What Are The Basic Qualifications For IT Industry Jobs?
Qualifications for most IT jobs include some type of higher education, certification, or computer experience. A bachelor’s degree in a computer-related discipline is the most widespread requirement, but some employers accept a two-year associate’s degree. Across all IT job categories, the highest percentage of employers are looking for applicants with previous work experience in a similar job and relevant four year degrees. Find out how much IT professionals are paid.
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Ousman Faal [Digital Vigilante] is a Tech Entrepreneur & Digital Skills Trainer who teaches both in the classroom and online. He has experience in various technologies and likes sharing it with others. Ousman has published 149 articles on this blog. He is the CEO of Faalen Technologies and Skills.gm.
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