Examining The Different Types Of Computer Careers?

Answer 1

There are several computer careers available ranging from highly skilled computer engineers and programmers, to more relaxed positions such as network maintenance technicians. With the expansion of the definition of what a computer actually consists of, some computer careers now involve mobile devices or embedded systems that are used for specific industries like geology and medicine. Almost all computer careers require some type of formal education, although in certain cases the experience of the applicant can be considered instead.

Most computer careers can be divided into one of three categories, with many containing overlapping attributes from all three. First there are software and programming oriented jobs that usually deal in one or more computer languages and occasionally engineering principles like software design patterns. Next, there are jobs that deal with hardware construction, maintenance and repair, including network systems. Lastly, there is a class of computer jobs that are focused more on administration and application maintenance such as backing up vital systems, installing new hardware, or creating new user accounts on a network.

Programming careers generally require some type of computer science degree, with the most desirable candidates having both a language specialty and sometimes a specific focus, such as real time systems or digital imaging. Hardware related careers can have broader educational requirements, including an engineering degree depending on the actual work. All computer careers, and especially administration jobs, usually require some type of independent certification beyond basic education to show that an applicant is proficient in some system, language, or design methodology.

Many employers in the computer industry also tend to look for applicants that have had some type of hands on experience, paid or not. This can be an internship, or even a project started in school, but completed later, showing knowledge of the software development cycle. Some students find work as assistants or administrators for small networks in order to learn real world applications of the concepts previously learned.

Depending on the exact field, the salary range for the different computer careers can range from average, to amounts in excess of $100,000. Seniority, experience, and past successes play some role in the amount of money that is made. Starting salaries for most careers, especially for applicants with little to no experience, tend to be equivalent to the starting salaries for many other fields, although over time the salary tends to rise more quickly for employees who remain current on changing technologies.