Top Jobs in the Computer Industry

DATABASE ADMINISTRATORS control the day-to-day operation of a computer database. They determine who can see which parts of a database by defining the rights of each user. Database administrators decide how the database will run best. They make sure there is enough free space for the database as it grows, and make sure they have backup copies in case of problems. Database administrators work with programmers and analysts to set up procedures designed to protect the data and ensure that only accurate data is entered. They work in virtually every sector of the economy. Many maintain Internet databases. Most work in the computer and data processing services industry. Many employers seek database administrators who have a bachelor's degree in computer science, information science, or management information systems (MIS). No special licensing or certification is required to be a database administrator. However, technical or professional certification is a way to demonstrate a level of competency or quality in a particular field. Average salary ranged from $54,000 to $94,500 a year in 2007.

GRAPHIC ARTISTS (SOFTWARE) use computers to create art and designs for software and websites that meet client needs. They design and execute graphic work for communications, marketing, advertising, information, training, and entertainment purposes. Graphic artists (software) consult with clients to determine their needs. Then, using their knowledge and training, they determine the format, approach, and content that will be the most effective and meet objectives. Graphic artists may develop a complete visual identity for a company, its products, and their website. They may design and develop larger items for a company such as marketing campaigns and website layout, and also design smaller graphic elements such as logos, product icons, and Web navigation buttons. Graphic artists develop skills in a postsecondary art or design school program, such as a bachelor's degree program in graphic art. Most employers prefer to hire graphic artists with a degree in graphic design, art, multimedia design, or a related field. Average salary ranged from $35,000 to $58,500 a year in 2007.

COURT REPORTERS take verbatim reports of speeches, conversations, meetings, legal proceedings, or other events when written accounts of spoken words are necessary for correspondence, records, or legal proof. Although many court reporters record official proceedings in the courtroom, the majority of them work outside the courtroom. Freelance reporters, for example, take depositions for attorneys in offices and document proceedings of meetings, conventions, and other private activities. Others capture the proceedings in the U.S. Congress, state and local government bodies, and government agencies at all levels. Court reporters use stenotype machines, which allow them to press more than one key at a time to record combinations of letters representing sounds, words, or phrases. The symbols are then recorded on computer disks or CD-ROM, which are then translated and displayed as text in a process called computer-aided transcription (CAT). Court reporters generally complete a 2- or 4-year training program offered by postsecondary vocational and technical schools and colleges. Some states require court reporters to be Notary Publics or Certified Court Reporters (CCR); reporters must pass a state certification test administered by a board of examiners to earn this designation. Average salary ranged from $33,500 to $62,500 a year in 2007.

ROBOT TECHNICIANS employed by manufacturers assist and work closely with mechanical, industrial, and electrical engineers in the design, development, production, testing, operation, and maintenance of robots and automated equipment systems. They maintain, troubleshoot, and repair robots by applying knowledge of electronics, electrical circuits, mechanics, pneumatics, hydraulics, and programming. Technicians program robots for specific tasks by walking them through each step of the work and having the computer record the steps. Technicians make sure that robots work efficiently as part of the entire manufacturing process. Employers prefer to hire robot technicians who have completed at least a 2-year electronic engineering technology or robotics program at a community college or trade school, or who have several years of related on-the-job training. Average salary ranged from $35,000 to $51,000 a year in 2007.

Using their knowledge of computer technology, electrical circuitry, and long-distance communication technology, TELECOMMUNICATIONS TECHNICIANS help with building new phone, satellite, or other long-distance communication networks. Telecommunications technicians detect, isolate, and repair network failures when they happen. Knowledge of computer software and networking is important for technicians as computers are used to control most telecommunications networks. Communications networks may include fiber optics, satellite communications, digital and analog communications, and many other technologies. Most employers prefer to hire telecommunications technicians who have an associate's degree in electrical, electronics, or computer engineering technology and knowledge of networking and telecommunications technologies. Some positions require a bachelor's degree in engineering or the equivalent amount of work experience. No special licensing or certification is required for telecommunications technicians. Average salary ranged from $38,500 to $63,500 a year in 2007.

ASTRONOMERS use the principles of physics and mathematics to learn about the fundamental nature of the universe including the sun, moon, planets, stars, and galaxies. They also apply their knowledge to problems in navigation, space flight, and satellite communications, and to develop the instrumentation and techniques used to observe and collect astronomical data. Astronomers do research, working on the laws governing the structure and evolution of astronomical objects. Others analyze large quantities of data gathered by observatories and satellites, and write scientific papers or reports on their findings. Some astronomers actually operate, usually as part of a team, large space or ground-based telescopes. New technology resulting in improvements in analytical techniques and instruments, such as computers and optical telescopes and mounts, is leading to more ground-based research. A doctoral degree is the usual educational requirement for astronomers, because most jobs are in basic research and development. Additional experience and training in a post-doctoral research, although not required, is helpful in preparing astronomers for permanent research positions. Average salary ranged from $72,000 to $131,500 a year in 2007.

CRIME LAB TECHNICIANS apply scientific principles to examine and identify physical evidence to reconstruct a crime scene. Physical evidence is usually collected by crime scene investigators, who then pass it on to crime lab analysts. They use computers and lab equipment to provide a link between the suspect and the victim. Crime lab analysts usually specialize in one or more types of testing, including serology, trace evidence, firearms/tool marks, impression evidence, and drug identification. Crime lab analysts must interpret the results of analyses in order to determine their significance to the case. Employers require Crime Lab Analysts to have a bachelor's degree from an accredited university with a major in a forensic, physical, or natural science such as criminalistics, chemistry, biology, or physics. Some crime labs require a master's degree in forensic science or criminalistics. Preference will be given to those with a Ph.D. degree and/or experience. No special licensing or certification is required for crime lab analysts. Average salary ranged from $34,500 to $54,000 a year in 2007.

SONOGRAPHERS (also known as ultrasound technologists) assist physicians in gathering sonographic data necessary to reach diagnostic decisions. They use non-ionizing ultrasound equipment to transmit sound waves at high frequencies into areas of the patient's body. The equipment then collects reflected echoes to form an image. The image is viewed on a screen and may be recorded on videotape or photographed for interpretation and diagnosis by doctors. Sonographers watch the screen as they move the scanning device across the body of the patient and note the differences between healthy and pathological areas. In addition to preparing patients and operating equipment, sonographers keep patient records and adjust and maintain equipment. Preparation for sonographers is offered in hospitals, colleges and universities, vocational-technical institutes, and the military. Formal training programs last from 1 to 4 years and lead to a certificate, associate's degree, or bachelor's degree. A bachelor's or master's degree is desirable for supervisory, administrative, or teaching positions. Average salary ranged from $46,000 to $68,500 a year in 2007.

COMPUTER SUPPORT SPECIALISTS provide technical assistance, support, and advice to customers and other users. These troubleshooters interpret problems and provide technical support for hardware, software, and systems problems. Computer support specialists answer telephone calls, analyze problems using automated diagnostic programs, and resolve recurrent difficulties. Computer support specialists install, modify, clean, and repair computer hardware and software, following design or installation specifications. They may also work on peripheral equipment such as monitors, keyboards, and printers. They test and monitor software, hardware, and peripheral equipment to evaluate use, effectiveness, and adequacy for the user. A bachelor's degree in a computer-related field is required for some computer support specialist positions. Other jobs may require only a computer-related associate's degree. Average salary ranged from $40,000 to $62,500 a year in 2007.

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