Job Descriptions

NOTE: This should be reformatted, probably like a list of terms(?).

On some occasions, I've been asked what some job descriptions are for computer (IT or Information Technology) personnel. I've started to compile this list based upon my own experiences and other people I've asked (who've helped me refine my list). Feel free to browse around in case you are looking for information about specific types of jobs in the IT career field, which is extremely varied.

Client/Server Programmer/Analyst Monitors applications performance and perform run-time improvement functions. Accomplished in coding, testing, and creating computer programs and sub-systems. Skill in using multiple programming languages in developing and maintaining projects within a client's client/server architecture. Interacts with customers to define system requirements and priorities. Server knowledge: UNIX, Windows NT, operating systems. Proficient in one or more database management systems, such as ORACLE, SYBASE, INFORMIX, or SQL server. Client knowledge: must have ability to develop front-end applications, and experience with development tools such as Delphi, UNIFACE, and INFORMIX. Expertise with GUI development, Visual Basic, and Visual C++.

Database Administrator Administers and controls an organization's data resources. Uses data dictionary software packages to ensure data integrity and security, to recover corrupted data, and to eliminate data redundancy, and tuning tools to improve database performance. Must have expertise in several DBMS systems and knowledge of various DBMS products.

Database Analyst Uses data modeling techniques to analyze and specify data usage within an application area. Defines both logical views and physical data structures. Internet/Intranet Developer Extensive experience in Web site development tools and vendor relations. Knowledge of Netscape and Internet Explorer. Builds software and user-interface applications to provide the technical architecture of Web sites or Web-based software products. Uses various programming and scripting languages like HTML, Java, PERL, Visual Basic, Visual C++. Well versed in the dominant Internet applications, such as e-mail, World Wide Web, Wide-Area Information Server (WAIS), Gopher, Mosaic, and Firewalls.

Mainframe Programmer Codes and maintains business application programs>from user instructions or formal functional specifications. Develops and supports large-scale batch or high-volume transaction environments that require mainframe-processing power. Programs in business-oriented languages such as COBOL, PL/1 or 4GLs.

Microcomputer Programmer Develops and supports small-scale user interface, GUI interface, and database-oriented applications. Programs in business-oriented languages such as COBOL, 4GLs such as SQL, PAL, Powerbuilder, Visual Basic and Xbase, or systems-oriented languages such as C or Pascal.

Midrange Programmer Develops and supports enterprise-oriented applications for large companies, or general business applications for medium companies. Programs in business-oriented languages such as COBOL and RPG/400, system-oriented languages such as C and Pascal, and object-oriented languages such as C++ and Smalltalk or 4GLs. PC Applications Specialist Responsible for overall coordination, control, and maintenance of personal computers within the enterprise, to ensure compatibility and integration with enterprise strategies. Assists in installing, modifying, and supporting 4th-generation language environments. Other areas of responsibility include supporting the personal computer and office automation environments, to maintain environmental continuity.

Project Manager/Lead Plans and oversees the development and support of a specific application or functional area. Coordinates resources, schedules and communications for application development projects. Develops project schedules and assigns tasks. Performs both systems analysis and programming. Serves as contact with user groups and systems management.

Software Engineer Designs and develops systems-level software such as operating systems, network management, database management software, languages, and GUIs. Also designs and develops general applications software such as spreadsheets, word processors, graphics packages, and communications packages. Programs in system and object-oriented languages such C, C++, Assembly, Smalltalk, or PL/1.

Software Tester/Quality Assurance Evaluates and tests software to verify that programs function according to specifications, documentation, and standards. Creates and executes automated test scripts using testing software. Identify, analyze, and document defects, questionable functions, errors, and inconsistencies in software program functions, outputs, online screens, and content. Create test cases, test data, and establish benchmarks for program efficiency in operating and response times. Review and contribute to software program documentation.

Systems Administrator Installs minicomputer operating systems software, database management systems software, compilers and utilities. Monitors and tunes systems software, peripherals, and networks. Installs new users, creates batch administration scripts, and runs systems backups. Resolves systems problems.

Systems Analyst Works directly with management and users to analyze, specify, and design business applications. Develops detailed functional specifications, system specs, and program specs using structured design methodologies and CASE tools. Systems Integrator Architect Combines knowledge of multiple platforms, applications development, LANs and packaged software to create quick, low-cost solutions to specific business requirements. Assists the organization in establishing operational procedures, redefining workflow and overseeing application implementation. Systems Programmer Installs and maintains mainframe operating systems, communication software, database management software, compilers and utility programs. Provides technical support to applications programmers, hardware/software evaluation and planning. Creates and modifies special-purpose utility programs. Ensures systems efficiency and integrity.

Telecommunications Analyst Evaluates, selects, installs and maintains data and voice communications software, hardware and network. Evaluates tariffs. Serves as liaison to common carriers and vendors.