Systems DevelopmentThose with information technology (IT) related degrees find that there are many computer science jobs available in systems development. Systems development encompasses the integration of hardware and software to generate a product that meets a user’s performance and business requirements. All modern businesses use some level of computing technology which often require system upgrades to help companies maintain their competitive advantages. These business needs translate into IT management and engineering positions within the systems development career field. Here are some examples of a few computer science jobs in systems development, the industries that most require this expertise and the credentials needed to land the best jobs by category.

Engineering Project Manager

Whenever a strategic business requirement is recognized to need an IT solution, an engineering project manager is identified to spearhead the development, management and delivery of said solution to customers. In today’s business environment, these projects could include anything from upgrading an enterprise resource planning system to designing a more eco-friendly data center. The engineering project manager plans, designs, develops, tests and produces systems within cost, schedule and performance constraints. These IT professionals usually have many years of experience in addition to their academic credentials. Their credentials likely include an undergraduate degree in computer science, management information systems or business management. They are also likely to have an advanced degree such as a Master of Business Administration or a Master of Science in Engineering Management. Many belong to the Project Management Institute and have earned Project Management Professional certification.

System Architect

When an IT project gets underway, the system architect evaluates the feasibility of different technologies to use within the project. This person stays up to date with the latest computing platforms, languages and applications. While project engineers can make suggestions, it is ultimately the responsibility of the system architect to identify technical solutions and document their high level interactions typically through use cases. The aerospace and defense industries mainly employ system architects, and they usually look for candidates with computer engineering degrees and many years of experience.

Network Engineer

Most companies’ computing systems are linked together through networks. As computing systems become more advanced so do hackers who want to breach security, steal data or distribute malware. One of the main functions of today’s network engineer is to build security into the networks that they design or upgrade. While businesses operating across all industries desire secure networks, it is imperative for those within the financial services and health care industries to maintain the highest network security standards, according to the Princeton Review. Network engineers often have degrees in computer science or network engineering. Many also have certifications from industry leaders like Cisco.

Business Intelligence Analyst

Business intelligence analysts help to design database systems that help companies to easily collect, store, analyze and report data to improve customer experiences and business performance. These positions have become very popular with retailers who like to anticipate customer demand for their products and services. Business intelligence analysts usually have degrees in computer science or management information systems.

Related Resource: Computer Science Jobs in Web Development

Conclusion

The career field of system development allows computer scientists to use a broad range of technical and leadership skills. As companies revamp their core values to reflect products and services that are more customer centric, environmentally sound and socially responsible, their IT systems must keep pace. Companies like these are currently the source of many of the computer science jobs available in systems development.