Common Computer Science Occupations

Software Developer

Software developers are the people who create the programs we use every day. Their duties involve writing code, designing software, updating old code, fixing bugs in code, and collaborating with other software developers. They can be employed in many different industries, like computer systems design, finance, and electronic project manufacturing. In the 21^st century, it is hard to go an entire day without being impacted by the work of a Software Developer.

Computer Network Architect

Computer network architects (sometimes called network engineers) build and plan out data and information networks, like local area networks (LAN), wide area networks (WAN), intranets, and extranets to name a few. It is also their job to take security measures for their networks, such as network security audits, automated security probes, or firewalls. Even after the network has been built, network architects are still required as they are responsible for maintaining the network and potentially working to upgrade it to keep up with meet new volume or capacity demands.

Information Security Analysts

Information security analysts are responsible for planning and carrying out security measures to protect the computer networks and systems of an organization. They must focus on three main areas: risk assessment, vulnerability assessment, and defense planning. As the number of cyberattacks continue to increase, the demand for this career is continuing to increase. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics expects the employment of information security analysts to grow 37% in the next decade, which is much faster than most other professions, even in the field of computer science.

Database Administrators

Database administrators (DBAs) set up databases for companies and make sure they operate efficiently. They must make sure their data is secure from unauthorized access, make modifications to the database structure, backup data, and merge old databases into new ones. Many DBAs are on call due to continuing maintenance of databases, and many work more than 40 hours a week. They can be employed in many settings, and some even work as consultants for companies.

Computer Systems Analysts

Computer systems analysts use their knowledge of information technology and their knowledge of business to create computer processes and systems for their clients. They study current computer systems and create solutions to help the organization function more efficiently. They also must research emerging technologies to determine if installing them will help their organization. If a company’s management approves of an upgrade, computer systems analysts must oversee the installation of any new systems. There are generally more extroverts working in this field than other computer science jobs, since they are constantly collaborating with others and working in teams.

-Erik B.

Sources:

Bratcher, Emily H. "Computer Systems Analyst." US News Money. US News, n.d. Web. 18 Oct. 2015. 

Bratcher, Emily H. "Software Developer." US News Money. US News, n.d. Web. 18 Oct. 2015.

"Computer and Information Technology Occupations." U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, n.d. Web. 18 Oct. 2015.   

Hellman, Nathan. "Database Administrator." US News Money. US News, n.d. Web. 18 Oct. 2015.  

"Occupation Profile." - America's Career InfoNet. CareerOneStop, n.d. Web. 18 Oct. 2015.  

Steinberg, Stephanie. "Information Security Analyst." US News Money. US News, n.d. Web. 18 Oct. 2015.