Computer Systems Engineers/Architects
What is a Computer Systems Engineers/Architects?
Computer Systems Engineers/Architects are professionals who specialize in designing, implementing, and managing complex computer systems and infrastructures. They work at the intersection of hardware and software, ensuring that they integrate efficiently and effectively to meet the needs of organizations. These engineers focus on system architecture, which includes the overall layout and organization of the computer system, as well as the specifications for individual components such as servers, storage devices, and networks.
Their role often involves analyzing system requirements and translating them into detailed specifications that guide the development and implementation of hardware and software solutions. They may be responsible for evaluating existing systems, troubleshooting issues, and proposing enhancements or upgrades to improve performance and security. They utilize their knowledge of various programming languages, operating systems, and network protocols to create robust systems that can scale with evolving organizational needs.
Computer Systems Engineers/Architects are also involved in project management activities, collaborating with other engineers, IT professionals, and stakeholders to ensure that projects are completed on time and within budget. They must stay updated on the latest technological advancements and industry trends in order to recommend the best tools and practices for their organizations.
Overall, the career of a Computer Systems Engineer/Architect is dynamic and requires a strong combination of technical expertise, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented environment.
Tasks
- Communicate with staff or clients to understand specific system requirements.
- Investigate system component suitability for specified purposes, and make recommendations regarding component use.
- Provide customers or installation teams guidelines for implementing secure systems.
- Direct the analysis, development, and operation of complete computer systems.
- Direct the installation of operating systems, network or application software, or computer or network hardware.
Technology Skills
- Web platform development software
- Project management software
- Development environment software
- Operating system software
- Data base management system software
Tools Used
- Computer servers
- Graphics or video accelerator cards
- Mobile phones
- Notebook computers
- High capacity removable media drives
Knowledge
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Computers and Electronics
Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
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English Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
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Telecommunications
Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of telecommunications systems.
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Customer and Personal Service
Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
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Engineering and Technology
Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
Skills
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Active Listening
Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
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Critical Thinking
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
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Reading Comprehension
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
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Speaking
Talking to others to convey information effectively.
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Systems Analysis
Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes.
Abilities
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Deductive Reasoning
The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
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Inductive Reasoning
The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).
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Oral Comprehension
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
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Oral Expression
The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
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Problem Sensitivity
The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing that there is a problem.
Education
How much education does a new hire need to perform a job in this occupation?
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Post-secondary certificate
Awarded for training completed after high school (for example, in Personnel Services, Engineering-related Technologies, Vocational Home Economics, Construction Trades, Mechanics and Repairers, Precision Production Trades)
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Associate's degree
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Bachelor's degree
Work Activities
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Working with Computers
Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
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Making Decisions and Solving Problems
Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
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Getting Information
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
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Processing Information
Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
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Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge
Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
Detailed Work Activities
- Collaborate with others to determine design specifications or details.
- Evaluate utility of software or hardware technologies.
- Recommend changes to improve computer or information systems.
- Develop guidelines for system implementation.
- Manage information technology projects or system activities.
Work Interests
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Investigative
Work involves studying and researching non-living objects, living organisms, disease or other forms of impairment, or human behavior. Investigative occupations are often associated with physical, life, medical, or social sciences, and can be found in the fields of humanities, mathematics/statistics, information technology, or health care service.
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Conventional
Work involves following procedures and regulations to organize information or data, typically in a business setting. Conventional occupations are often associated with office work, accounting, mathematics/statistics, information technology, finance, or human resources.
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Realistic
Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.
Job Outlook
Projected salary and job growth
$49690.0 - $174300.0
This career will grow rapidly in the next few years.
Assessment
Related assessments and tests
No assessment available.