Analyze science, engineering, business, and other data processing problems to develop and implement solutions to complex applications problems, system administration issues, or network concerns. Perform systems management and integration functions, improve existing computer systems, and review computer system capabilities, workflow, and schedule limitations. May analyze or recommend commercially available software.
Work Activities
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Test, maintain, and monitor computer programs and systems, including coordinating the installation of computer programs and systems.
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Troubleshoot program and system malfunctions to restore normal functioning.
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Expand or modify system to serve new purposes or improve work flow.
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Use the computer in the analysis and solution of business problems, such as development of integrated production and inventory control and cost analysis systems.
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Use object-oriented programming languages, as well as client and server applications development processes and multimedia and Internet technology.
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Consult with management to ensure agreement on system principles.
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Review and analyze computer printouts and performance indicators to locate code problems, and correct errors by correcting codes.
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Supervise computer programmers or other systems analysts or serve as project leaders for particular systems projects.
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Confer with clients regarding the nature of the information processing or computation needs a computer program is to address.
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Develop, document, and revise system design procedures, test procedures, and quality standards.
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Train staff and users to work with computer systems and programs.
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Coordinate and link the computer systems within an organization to increase compatibility so that information can be shared.
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Assess the usefulness of pre-developed application packages and adapt them to a user environment.
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Define the goals of the system and devise flow charts and diagrams describing logical operational steps of programs.
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Provide staff and users with assistance solving computer-related problems, such as malfunctions and program problems.
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Read manuals, periodicals, and technical reports to learn how to develop programs that meet staff and user requirements.
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Analyze information processing or computation needs and plan and design computer systems, using techniques such as structured analysis, data modeling, and information engineering.
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Determine computer software or hardware needed to set up or alter system.
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Interview or survey workers, observe job performance, or perform the job to determine what information is processed and how it is processed.
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Prepare cost-benefit and return-on-investment analyses to aid in decisions on system implementation.
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Recommend new equipment or software packages.
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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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Oral Comprehension
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
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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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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 there is a problem.
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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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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.
- Education
Bachelor's degree
- Work Experience
No work experience
- Training
No on-the-job training
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Looking for technical training programs?
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Investigative:
People interested in this work like activities that include ideas, thinking, and figuring things out.
They do well at jobs that need:
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Analytical Thinking
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Attention to Detail
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Adaptability/Flexibility
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Dependability
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Integrity
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Cooperation
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Personal digital assistant PDAs or organizers
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Notebook computers
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Mainframe computers
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Desktop computers
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Web platform development software
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Program testing software
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Object or component oriented development software
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Development environment software
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Data base management system software
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Bright Outlook occupations will grow rapidly in the next few years, have a large number of openings, or are new and emerging careers.
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Apprenticeships are available for this occupation. These programs can help you get hands-on experience and build your skills.
