6 Different Types of Jobs in Information

Technology
“Information Technology” is a pretty broad term—it covers a whole range of digital career paths
that diverge into fascinating and lucrative specializations. If you’re looking to join the ranks of
IT experts, it might seem a bit overwhelming to try to decipher exactly what these job titles all
mean—especially if you’re just starting out.

1. Technical Support
Tech support is generally what most non-IT folk think of when they imagine an information
technology department. These types of IT experts can be known by a variety of titles—“help
desk technicians,” “operations analysts,” or “problem managers”—but at the end of the day, their
main job is to provide expert troubleshooting advice to clients. Technical support typically
handles both hardware and software issues at the user level, helping out the less tech-savvy with
their computer problems—making communication skills, problem solving, and well-rounded
tech knowledge an asset.

2. Programmers
Computer programmers are the brains behind software functions—they write and test the code
that makes up software programs. This might range from simple computer games or word
processors all the way up to complicated operating systems and database management systems.
The type of skills you need typically depends on what specific area you’re programming in—but
attention to detail, logical thinking, and teamwork are all assets to get this important job done
right.

3. Web Developers
Web developers often have the most visible jobs. They’re the ones who are responsible for
building websites and the infrastructures behind them—making a careful balance of creativity
and technical prowess a must for those looking to join this area of information technology. Web
developers may also be known as “web producers,” “multimedia architects,” and “internet
engineers”, making their titles as diverse as their work portfolios.

4. Computer Systems Analyst

Computer systems analysts are the multitaskers of information technology; they have to
understand computer hardware, software, and networks—and how they all come to work
together. It’s a large part of theirjob to make recommendations to their company for which
systems are the best to use, and to tailor them to best suit their organization’s needs—including
costs. This job requires a multitude of different skills, including the ability to analyze
information quickly and effectively, excellent communication, and the ability to persuade when
necessary.

5. IT Security
IT security is one of the biggest up-and-coming areas of tech in the market today—they’re in
charge of keeping organizations safe from malicious digital attacks. This includes implementing
and running security software, scanning for abnormalities, upgrading systems, and keeping their
company informed of the risks involved in daily activities. This job requires a lot of problem
solving, crisis management, and effective communication between team members and higher-
ups.

6. Network Engineer
Network engineers have a lot on their plate in terms of duties—they’re in charge of setting up,
administering, and maintaining and upgrading local and wide area networks for an organization.
Depending on the job description, they may also be responsible for security, data, storage, and
disaster recovery. Because of their heavy work load, a computer science degree is typically
needed to do this job effectively, but planning, analysis, and problem solving skills are all assets
for those looking to join this career path.