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We all can benefit from a few tips or suggestions. Throughout your textbook you will find numerous Tips ranging from the basics of keeping your computer system running smoothly to how to protect your privacy while surfing the Web. These Tips also appear below. WebmastersWebmasters develop and maintain websites and resources. The job may include backup of the company website, updating resources, or development of new resources. Webmasters are often involved in the design and development of the website. Some webmasters monitor traffic on the site and take steps to encourage users to visit the site. Webmasters also may work with marketing personnel to increase site traffic and may be involved in development of web promotions. Employers look for candidates with a bachelor's or associate's degree in computer science or information systems and knowledge of common programming languages and web development software. Knowledge of HTML and CSS is considered essential. Those with experience using web authoring software and programs like Adobe Illustrator and Adobe Flash are often preferred. Good communication and organizational skills are vital in this position. Webmasters can expect to earn an annual salary of $56,000 to $80,000. This position is relatively new in many corporations and tends to have fluid responsibilities. With technological advances and increasing corporate emphasis on a web presence, experience in this field could lead to managerial opportunities. Software EngineersSoftware engineers analyze users' needs and create application software. Software engineers typically have experience in programming but focus on the design and development of programs using the principles of mathematics and engineering. A bachelor's or an advanced specialized associate's degree in computer science or information systems and an extensive knowledge of computers and technology are required by most employers. Internships may provide students with the kinds of experience employers look for in a software engineer. Those with specific experience with web applications may have an advantage over other applicants. Employers typically look for software engineers with good communication and analytical skills. Software engineers can expect to earn an annual salary in the range of $53,000 to $97,000. Starting salary is dependent on both experience and the type of software being developed. Experienced software engineers are candidates for many other advanced careers in IT. Computer Support SpecialistsComputer support specialists provide technical support to customers and other users. They also may be called technical support specialists or help-desk technicians. Computer support specialists manage the everyday technical problems faced by computer users. They resolve common networking problems and may use troubleshooting programs to diagnose problems. Most computer support specialists are hired to work within a company and provide technical support for other employees and divisions. However, it is increasingly common for companies to provide technical support as an outsourced service. Employers generally look for individuals with either an advanced associate's degree or a bachelor's degree to fill computer support specialist positions. Degrees in computer science or information systems may be preferred. However, because demand for qualified applicants is so high, those with practical experience and certification from a training program increasingly fill these positions. Employers seek individuals with customer service experience that demonstrate good analytical, communication, and people skills. Computer support specialists can expect to earn an annual salary of $31,000 to $58,000. Opportunities for advancement are very good and may involve design and implementation of new systems. Computer TechniciansComputer technicians repair and install computer components and systems. They may work on everything from personal computers and mainframe servers to printers. Some computer technicians are responsible for setting up and maintaining computer networks. Experienced computer technicians may work with computer engineers to diagnose problems and run routine maintenance on complex systems. Job growth is expected in this field as computer equipment becomes more complicated and technology expands. Employers look for those with certification in computer repair or associate degrees from professional schools. Computer technicians also can expect to continue their education to keep up with technological changes. Good communication skills are important in this field. Computer technicians can expect to earn an annual salary in the range of $31,000 to $46,000. Opportunities for advancement typically come in the form of work on more advanced computer systems. Some computer technicians move into customer service positions or go into sales. Technical WritersTechnical writers prepare instruction manuals, technical reports, and other scientific or technical documents. Most technical writers work for computer software firms, government agencies, or research institutions. They translate technical information into easily understandable instructions or summaries. As new technology continues to develop and expand, the need for technical writers who can communicate technical expertise to others is expected to increase. Technical writing positions typically require an associate's or a bachelor's degree in communications, journalism, or English and a specialization in, or familiarity with, a technical field. However, individuals with strong writing skills sometimes transfer from jobs in the sciences to positions in technical writing. Technical writers can expect to earn an annual salary in the range of $41,000 to $78,000. Advancement opportunities can be limited within a firm or company, but there are additional opportunities in consulting. Disaster Recovery SpecialistsDisaster recovery specialists are responsible for recovering systems and data after a disaster strikes an organization. In addition, they often create plans to prevent and prepare for such disasters. A crucial part of that plan is to use storage devices and media in order to ensure that all company data is backed up and, in some cases, stored off-site. Employers typically look for candidates with a bachelor's or associate's degree in information systems or computer science. Experience in this field is usually required, and additional skills in the areas of networking, security, and database administration are desirable. Disaster recovery specialists should possess good communication skills and be able to handle high-stress situations. Disaster recovery specialists can expect to earn an annual salary of $70,000 to $103,000. Opportunities for advancement typically include upper-management positions. With so many types of threats facing organizations, demand for these types of specialists is expected to grow. Network AdministratorsNetwork administrators manage a company's LAN and WAN networks. They may be responsible for design, implementation, and maintenance of networks. Duties usually include maintenance of both hardware and software related to a company's intranet and Internet networks. Network administrators are typically responsible for diagnosing and repairing problems with these networks. Some network administrators' duties include planning and implementation of network security as well. Employers typically look for candidates with a bachelor's or an associate's degree in computer science, computer technology, or information systems as well as practical networking experience. Experience with network security and maintenance is preferred. Also technical certification may be helpful in obtaining this position. Because network administrators are involved directly with people in many departments, good communication skills are essential. Network administrators can expect to earn an annual salary of $46,000 to $84,000. Opportunities for advancement typically include upper-management positions. This position is expected to be among the fastest-growing jobs in the near future. IT Security AnalystsIT security analysts are responsible for maintaining the security of a company's networks, systems, and data. Their goal is to ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of information. These analysts must safeguard information systems against a variety of external threats, such as hackers and viruses, as well be vigilant of threats that may come from within the company. Employers typically look for candidates with a bachelor's or associate's degree in information systems or computer science. Experience in this field or in network administration is usually required. IT security analysts should possess good communication and research skills, and be able to handle high-stress situations. IT security analysts can expect to earn an annual salary of $62,000 to $101,000. Opportunities for advancement typically depend on experience. Demand for this position is expected to grow as malware, hackers, and other types of threats become more complex and prevalent. Information Systems ManagersInformation systems managers oversee the work of programmers, computer specialists, systems analysts, and other computer professionals. They create and implement corporate computer policy and systems. Most companies look for individuals with strong technical backgrounds, sometimes as consultants, with a master's degree in business. Employers seek individuals with strong leadership and excellent communication skills. Information systems managers must be able to communicate with people in technical and nontechnical terms. Information systems management positions are often filled by individuals who have been consultants or managers in previous positions. Those with experience in computer and network security will be in demand as businesses and society continue to struggle with important security issues. Information systems managers can expect an annual salary of $92,000 to $125,000. Advancement opportunities typically include leadership in the field. Database AdministratorsDatabase administrators use database management software to determine the most efficient ways to organize and access a company's data. Additionally, database administrators are typically responsible for maintaining database security and backing up the system. Database administration is a fast-growing industry and substantial job growth is expected. Database administrator positions normally require a bachelor's degree in computer science or information systems and technical experience. Internships and prior experience with the latest technology are a considerable advantage for those seeking jobs in this industry. It is possible to transfer skills learned in one industry, such as finance, to a new career in database administration. In order to accomplish this objective, many people seek additional training in computer science. Database administrators can expect to earn an annual salary of $67,000 to $98,000. Opportunities for advancement include positions as a chief technology officer or other managerial opportunities. Systems AnalystsA systems analyst follows the steps described in the systems life cycle. Analysts plan and design new systems or reorganize a company's computer resources to best utilize them. Analysts follow the systems life cycle through all its steps: preliminary investigation, analysis, design, development, implementation, and maintenance. Systems analyst positions normally require either an advanced associate's degree or a bachelor's degree in computer science or information systems and technical experience. Internships and prior experience with the latest technology are a considerable advantage for those seeking jobs in this industry. Systems analysts can expect to earn an annual salary of $49,000 to $93,000. Opportunities for advancement include positions as a chief technology officer or other managerial opportunities. ProgrammersComputer programmers create, test, and troubleshoot programs used by computers. Programmers also may update and repair existing programs. Most computer programmers are employed by companies that create and sell software, but programmers also may be employed in various other businesses. Many computer programmers work on a project basis as consultants, meaning they are hired by a company only to complete a specific program. As technology has developed, the need for programmers to work on the most basic computer functions has decreased. However, demand for computer programmers with specializations in advanced programs continues. Jobs in programming typically require a bachelor's degree in computer science or information systems. However, there are positions available in the field for those with a two-year degree. Employers looking for programmers typically put an emphasis on previous experience. Programmers who have patience, think logically, and pay attention to detail are continually in demand. Additionally, programmers who can communicate technical information to nontechnical people are preferred. Computer programmers can expect to earn an annual salary in the range of $49,000 to $89,000. Advancement opportunities for talented programmers include a lead programmer position or supervisory positions. Programmers with specializations and experience also may have an opportunity to consult. |