A computer engineers job is different from that of a computer hardware engineer. Hardware experts design the actual computers. A computer software engineer develops tests and evaluates software to make computers operational. Computer engineers may also be responsible for constructing and managing an organization's computer system. Most computer engineers work as part of a tech team in an office or laboratory environment. Computer engineers design and develop a wide range of software including business applications, network control systems, operating systems, middle-ware and games. Computer engineers start by analyzing user needs. Then engineers develop, design and test software to meet those needs. The process involves detailed flowcharts, diagrams, documents and instructions referred to as algorithms. Conversion of algorithms is typically done by computer programmers.
Computer engineers are divided into two categories. Computer applications software engineers analyze users needs to design applications software or specialized utility programs. Computer systems software engineers coordinate construction of an organizations computer systems and handle maintenance and expansion.
Computer applications software engineers work with various programming languages based on the purpose of the program and where it runs. Some engineers develop package computer applications while others develop completely customized applications for specific organizations and even develop databases.
Marketing, sales, technical resources, logistical and technical support are all possible career options for computer systems software engineers. Quite a number of systems software engineers work for companies that create and install the computer systems for other businesses and organizations.
After computer engineers and system analysts design software programs, computer programmers write them. Programmers also work on updating, modifying, expanding and repairing existing programs. Often programmers work closely with computer engineers to boost productivity through enhanced technology.
Most computer engineer jobs require a bachelors degree. For some positions, a masters degree is preferred. College majors for computer engineers include computer science, mathematics, software engineering, computer information systems. Employers prefer to hire computer engineers who are familiar with the latest technology.
Computer engineers must have certain skills to be employable. Computer engineers need strong analytical skills and the ability to remain focused on multiple tasks at once. Many computer engineers work with clients and must express complex ideas in simple terms. Creativity and ingenuity are important skills for computer engineers designing new software programs. Computer engineers should work well with technical analysis and abstract concepts. Business skills make it possible for computer engineers to advance to management positions.
A Systems Analyst
A systems analyst uses computers and related systems to design new IT solutions, modify, enhance or adapt existing systems and integrate new features or improvements, all with the aim of improving business efficiency and productivity. They must possess a high level of technical expertise and clear insights into current business practices.
They examine existing IT systems and business models; analyze systems requirements; undertake product development; implement, configure and test feasible solutions.
The analyst acts as liaison between the client and the developers. They conduct a cost analysis and agree the timeframe to implement the proposed solution. They specify and shape the system requirements and operations, the user interface and output and present the proposal to the client. They work closely with the client team, including commercial managers and software developers, during both the report and implementation phase.
It is vital to look closely at job descriptions rather than job titles e.g. analysts may be known as systems or business analysts and the trend is currently towards including the term solutions in the job title.
