Monday, November 7, 2016

Computer Science Career Paths


Software QA Tester


One's ability to identify errors within a company's products is key. 
            The Software QA Tester career involves testing and developing software to identify errors. This career option, as of 2015, has 16,179 openings where the worker must confirm software accuracy and reduce the amount of risks that take place, control problems found within software, and identify errors.   Areas that QA Testers may be put into while they work include product manager, IT management, enterprise strategy, and customer experience leader. As for education, Overby (2016) said “many employers prefer to hire candidates who have attained certification, such as the ISTQB Certified Tester Foundation Level (CTFL) credential”, meaning obtaining the job may be difficult for some.


Computer Systems Engineer

Problem solving and math skills are high in demand for this career. 
           The Computer Systems Engineer career involves problem solving surrounding system security and troubleshooting. Certain skills required for a position in this field involve math and science skills, and know-how when working with technology. Educational requirements for this position requires one have a 4-year degree in information technology, electrical engineering, or computer engineering. The growth possibilities for this field are estimated “systems software developers may see a 13% increase in job opportunities for the years 2014-2024” (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2015). With that in mind, this career choice would probably require more dedication than most careers in the computer science field.



Network Systems Administrator


Although this career requires no previous work experience, one must still be able to solve complications surrounding technology.
            The Network Systems Administrator career involves network and website management. Workers who choose this career path are tasked with making sure communications and websites are readily available, hardware malfunctions with networking, and computer server maintenance.  With that in mind, “This work is not for the faint of heart. In a single day, he or she may encounter stacks of servers, dozens of crisscrossing network cables and major malfunctions with the hardware and software that runs the company’s local area and wide area networks” (USNews, 2015). Education for this field requires no previous experience in the field, but the applicant must have a bachelor’s degree in computer science.