UNIT 2 , P3

database administrator

As a database administrator you'll be in charge of computerised information systems - you could think of yourself as a kind of high tech librarian. You are responsible for the performance, integrity and security of a database and your job includes updating existing databases and building new systems for fresh information.

• Excellent problem-solving and organisational skills
• The ability to work to a high degree of accuracy
• Good analytical skills
• A good understanding of database architecture, software and database management systems
• The ability to work quickly, under pressure and to deadlines
• Good communication, presentation and negotiating skills
• A good understanding of the Data Protection Act
• A willingness to keep up to date with developments in technology
• Good team-working skills
• You should enjoy working in a fast paced environment, where the technology is constantly changing.

Programmer

IT jobs involving programming essentially want high-tech problem solvers. You'll need to look at how technology can solve real life business problems to make the organisation more efficient and more productive by developing, testing and implementing IT solutions. Most of your work will be desk-based but at various critical implementation stages of projects, particularly the testing stage, you may be more mobile as you travel round to make sure all is going to plan.

• Have a good understanding of IT so you can quickly learn about new IT packages and techniques
• Have good communications skills
• Enjoy problem solving
• Be able to work as an individual and as part of a team
• Be able to work to tight deadlines
• Work in a logical manner
• Demonstrate good attention to detail

network analyst

As a network analyst you'll probably find yourself working for a large company where it is your job to tailor-make computer systems for the business.

The type of projects you might work on include the restructuring of a banks' customer accounts to make them more secure or the integration of phone and internet systems at a call centre to help the staff manage enquiries better.

• An extensive and current knowledge of hardware, software and programming (an ability to explain technical information to non-technical people)
• Excellent communications skills
• Good negotiating skills
• A good business understanding
• Team-working and team management experience
• Good project management skills
• Good organisation and problem-solving skills
• A methodical and analytical approach

software tester

 

Testing plays an important role in development of new IT programmes and many every day products, like cars, games consoles and electronic goods.

 

• A natural curiosity
• A good understanding of the software development process
• A good understanding of the business approach
• Good judgment skills
• Good writing skills (for documenting the process)
• Good communications and consultancy skills
• The ability to work in a team and as an individual
• Good presentation skills
• The ability to work under pressure and to tight deadlines

network manager

A challenging and varied role in IT, a network manager is a job of two halves. You are responsible for both installing and maintaining your company's computer networks. This includes setting access to files, email, internet and security systems to prevent hackers from getting into the system. You might even have to write programmes.

• Computer skills
• Interpersonal skills and experience in presenting
• Problem-solving and project management experience
• Negotiation skills
• Team-working skills
• Your general understanding of the wider business
• Financial planning and budgeting experience

IT graduate/trainee

Many people in the IT industry get start their careers in either graduate jobs or on trainee programmes.It's the perfect way to learn and apply all the skills and qualifications you'll need to do well in your career and gradually take on more responsibility in a controlled environment.

• Good communications skills
• A commitment to ongoing training
• Good time management
• Good organisational skills
• An ability to work to deadlines
• A good eye for detail