JOB IN IT

1. IT Consultant
WHAT DO IT CONSULTANTS DO?
Information Technology (IT) is the broad term for jobs that involve using computer
programming, data and analysis. This could be information security analysts, web developers,
computer network architects, computer systems analysts, and other jobs that analyze how
computer systems, software, data and security work within a company. An IT consultant
typically works for a consulting firm or independently. The consulting firm is hired or
contracted by a company to come in and analyze their IT systems and structure. The jobs can
take weeks or months, but as consultants, you are contracted to work for that company until
the job is done. Consultants often have an office they report to, but often work on-site at the
company to which they are contracted.
HOW MUCH DO IT CONSULTANTS MAKE?
This depends on your role at the consulting firm. For example, information security
analysts, web developers and computer network architects make a median annual income of
$75,660 or $36.37/hour in 2010, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
Computer systems analysts made $37.38 per hour, or $77,740 annually.
WHAT ARE THE EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS?
A bachelor's degree in computer or information science, engineering or other
computer related field is a great start, but if you know how to write code or computer
programs and have demonstrable skills, you might get hired without it. To increase your
chances, you might want to pursue a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in
information systems.
JOB SKILLS AND REQUIREMENTS
 Analytical Skills: IT consultants have to be able to look at complex data and computer
systems and find inefficiencies, analyze weaknesses or security threats.
 Concentration: IT consultants are required to write code for long stretches of time.
Concentration is required.
 Creativity: Finding new and innovative solutions to problems requires creativity.
 Attention to Detail: Analyzing and writing code means being able to look very
carefully at a lot of data.

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  Communication Skills: Consultants will have to speak to clients, write
recommendations, listen to concerns and communicate with teammates.
 Problem-Solving Skills: IT consultants need to be able to analyze an issue, security
threat or problem and make decisions on how to proceed.
 Organization: Many different aspects of a companies IT structure will be analyzed by
you. Keeping it all straight is important.
 Teamwork: IT consultants may work with a large team of consultants, and company
liaisons. Being able to work as part of a team is necessary.
 Presentation Skills: Consultants will be asked to present their findings and
recommendations to their contracted company and to their own management. Being
able to speak in front of groups and give smart presentations is crucial.

2. Cloud Architect
As the worlds of technology and computing change and develop, more and more
careers are emerging to suit the needs of the evolving computing landscape. The cloud
architect is one such role. A cloud architect, or cloud computing architect, is responsible for
setting up all of the components required for successful cloud computing. A cloud computing
network, as opposed to a more traditional computer network, involves storing and managing
data across a number of remotely located servers, rather than a local server. Cloud architects
are in charge of creating these cloud networks by connecting remotely located servers. This
involves setting up front- and back-end platforms and developing an operational cloud based
delivery system.
Some of a cloud architect's general duties and responsibilities may include setting up cloud
storage and computing systems from scratch, making sure these systems abide by various
compliance and security policies, managing systems, and making updates as necessary. Cloud
architects need to be able to adapt quickly and respond to new problems and issues efficiently
and effectively, as the field of cloud storage and computing changes often.

Required Education
While there is no specific required education to become a cloud architect, obtaining a
bachelor's degree in a related area like computer science or computer programming will
definitely help you master some of the skills necessary to be successful in this field. Many
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 cloud architects also combine a technical education background with a number of years of
work experience in the field of computing and technology. It is also possible to obtain a
Cloud Architect certification, which is not necessarily required to find a job as a cloud
architect, but may boost your resume and help prove to potential employers that you have the
necessary skills to be successful in this role.

Required Skills
Working as a cloud architect requires certain skills and technical knowledge. To be
successful, you will likely need to be proficient in at least one computer scripting language, if
not multiple. Cloud architects also must be skilled in the areas of computer programming and
be knowledgeable about computer networks in general. As a cloud architect, you may choose
to specialize in one particular computer operating system, like Windows, Linux, or Solaris,
though if you are capable of working with multiple operating systems, you may be able to
find more work. It is also important for these professionals to be keenly aware of computer
security, as they want to be sure to create cloud systems that are safe and secure.

Career and Salary Outlook

According to PayScale, cloud architects made a median salary of $124,882 as of
2017. These professionals, which are classified under the broader category of computer
network architects by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), are in high demand. All
computer network architects are projected to experience 9% growth in their field from 2014
to 2024 according to the BLS. While the BLS mentions that as more and more companies
adopt cloud computing methods, traditional computer network architects may not be as
highly demanded, this should only positively affect individuals who are cloud architects.

3. Computer Forensics Investigator

Computer forensics, or digital forensics, is a fairly new field. Computer forensics
investigators, also known as computer forensics specialists, computer forensics examiners, or
computer forensics analysts, are charged with uncovering and describing the information
contained on, or the state or existence of, a digital artifact. Digital artifacts include computer
systems, hard drives, CDs, and other storage devices, as well as electronic documents and
files like emails and JPEG images. The fast-growing field of computer forensics includes
several branches related to firewalls, networks, databases, and mobile devices. Digital

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forensics technicians can find work with many types of organizations: government (local,
state, and federal), accounting firms, law firms, banks, and software development companies.
Essentially, any organization that has a computer system may have a need for a digital
forensics specialist. Some digital forensics specialists opt to start their own businesses, giving
them an opportunity to work with a variety of clients.

Career Description, Duties, and Common Tasks

Computer forensics investigators provide many services based on gathering digital
information, from investigating computer systems and data in order to present information for
legal cases to determining how an unauthorized user hacked into a system. A digital forensics
examiner does many things in the course of these tasks – protects the computer system,
recovers files (including those that were deleted or encrypted), analyzes data found on
various disks, and provides reports, feedback, and even testimony, when required. A
computer forensics degree can help you develop the skills necessary for a successful career in
this field.

Steps for Becoming a Computer Forensics Analyst

A bachelor’s degree in computer forensics or a similar area is generally required to earn a
position as a computer forensics investigator. Some community colleges offer two-year
associate degrees in computer forensics, which allow aspiring digital forensics investigators
to then transfer to a four-year college or university to earn a bachelor’s degree.
1. Attend a degree program and/or gain experience in a related field.
2. Become certified as a GIAC Certified Forensic Analyst (GCFA).
3. Apply for an open position as a computer forensics investigator.
4. Complete an interview.
5. Get hired as a computer forensics investigator.
6. Receive training on the job once hired.
The degree level required depends on the job. Sometimes relevant experience may be used to
supplement an educational requirement. Check the job posting for details.
Optional. While certification in computer forensics may not be mandatory to find a position,
experts recommend taking the time to get certified. Some organizations require it while
others look more favorably upon applicants who have earned certification.

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Computer Forensics Investigator Training
Computer forensics investigators can enhance their degrees and their experience by
completing training courses and programs with such organizations as the National Institute of
Justice and the National Computer Forensics Institute.

Other Helpful Skills and Experience

An interest in technology, the desire to constantly learn to stay abreast of the latest
technological advances, and the ability to effectively communicate both verbally and in
written form are all common traits of successful digital forensics specialists. Analytical and
problem-solving skills are also key. Work experience in a computer-related position or in law
enforcement could also prove beneficial.

Possible Job Titles for This Career

 Computer Forensics Analyst
 Computer Forensics Investigator
 Computer Forensics Specialist
 Computer Forensics Technician
 Digital Forensics Specialist
 Forensic Computer Examiner

Computer Forensics Analyst Salary and Job Outlook

The salary range for computer forensics analysts and investigators varies widely
depending on whether the job is in the private sector or in the public sector. The US Bureau
of Labor Statistics (BLS) doesn’t provide salary data for computer forensic specialists but
does provide data for the related occupation of information security analysts, who earn a
median salary of $90,120 per year.1 The employment outlook for digital forensics examiners
and investigators is favorable due to the rapid growth of crimes involving computers
(cybercrime). According to the BLS, the related occupation of information security analysts
is expected to grow by 18% between 2014 and 2024.

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4. Health Information Technology Specialist
Health information technology specialists maintain and repair the IT systems within a
healthcare facility, including computers, networks and servers. Read on to learn about typical
job duties, education requirements and earning potential. Schools offering Information
Technology degrees can also be found in these popular choices.

What Is a Health Information Technology Specialist?

Health information technology specialists, also known as health information
technicians, are responsible for the management and organization of medical records and
databases. Using high-level software, they assign codes to particular medical procedures for
future analysis and insurance billing purposes. These specialists also handle the security of
sensitive health data. Most work in doctor's offices or other medical facilities.

What Are the Job Duties of a Heath Information Technology Specialist?

As an IT specialist in the healthcare field, you'll primarily be responsible for
maintaining and updating the computer systems and medical records used in hospitals,
physicians' offices and a variety of healthcare facilities. Other types of health-related
businesses, such as insurance companies, often hire IT professionals with a specialization in
specific types of healthcare software and networking systems.
As a health IT specialist, you'll be required to install and maintain computer systems and
software within a healthcare facility. Depending on your experience level and seniority, you
might help to develop technical standards, data organization methods and provide supervision
to other IT specialists. An often computer-intensive profession, you'll work with medical
coding software to create and maintain patient files within a database, ensuring data integrity
and regulatory compliance.

What Education Will I Need?

To qualify for most health IT specialist positions, you usually need an associate
degree. You can earn this 2-year degree through several community and technical colleges,
and some offer online learning. The first part of a program covers basic topics in medical
terminology and computer usage. As you progress, you'll be exposed to professional subjects,
such as medical coding, data security, pharmacology and legal regulations.

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According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employers commonly prefer to hire
IT specialists with credentials in medical coding and information systems, so you'd benefit by
finding a degree program that adequately prepares you for certification (www.bls.gov).
Additionally, you can also receive bachelor's or master's-level education in the field, though
these degrees generally prepare you to advance an existing career.

What Salary Could I Make?

According to the BLS data from 2015, the profession sustained a median annual
salary of $37,110. The majority of employees worked in general medical and surgical
hospitals, averaging between $43,080 per year. Professional, scientific and technical service
organizations offered the highest average annual wage, which was $52,940.

What Does the Future of the Career Look Like?

The BLS predicted employment of health IT specialists would increase 15% between
2014 and 2024. The higher-than-average growth rate was attributed to the increase in the
aging population and the number of people who have health insurance, as well as the
expansion of the use of electronic health records in the medical industry.

What Are Some Related Alternative Careers?

If you are looking for an office-based career in a medical facility, you might also
consider a job as a health service manager. These professionals manage finances and
coordinate services in medical institutions or departments. Alternatively, if you are more
interested in information technology, you might want to become a database administrator,
which involves storing, organizing and securing information for organizations in a wide
range of industries. Both of these jobs usually require a bachelor's degree.

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5. Mobile Application Developer
A mobile application developer uses programming languages to create, manage, and
maintain unique mobile and tablet applications that meet a client’s requirements. A mobile
application developer may work with more than one operating system and programing
language. The main responsibility of a developer involves designing, planning, and creating a
mobile application that facilitates users’ needs and fulfills the client’s requirements.
Specialization in mobile phone application development and design is required to pursue this
career as well as an in-depth knowledge of at least one computer language. Mobile
applications can be written for any particular system, Windows, iOS or Android, and will
only function on that particular system.
Job specifics and titles may vary from one organization to another, but the role is usually all
about designing, testing, implementing, and, in some cases, supporting and maintaining
mobile applications with the use of development tools and programming languages.

Mobile App Developer Responsibilities

The list of responsibilities includes:
1. Establishing detailed program specifics through discussion with clients;
2. Clarifying which actions the program is intended to perform;
3. Breaking down all the program specifications into simple elements, and then
translating this logic into a programming language, after collecting all the details and
the client’s requirements for the mobile application;
4. Problem solving related to any anticipated problems;
5. Project work, including writing specific sections of the program;
6. Integration of all the elements of the program and execution of the application;
7. Testing of the mobile application as the final stage of mobile application development
using sample data-sets to verify that the output of the program works as intended and
meets the clients’ requirements;
8. Identifying the mistakes and bugs and correcting them;
9. Evaluating and making adjustments as needed to ensure and improve functionality of
the app;
10. Designing a mobile application that is adaptable to new requirements;
11. Launching a user-acceptance test to ensure that the program is easy, responsive and
accurate;

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 12. Writing detailed documentation for the operation of the program for mobile users and
operators;
13. Generating consultation manuals, technical reports and periodicals to foresee new
ways to develop programs and manage existing skills and knowledge; and,
14. Updating, modifying and repairing existing mobile applications.

Qualification and Skills Required

Many employers seek someone with a bachelor’s degree in computer science,
software engineering, mobile application development, mobile computing or any other
similar programming-related field of study. Employers who are looking for mobile
application developers will also show preference to those candidates who can produce a
portfolio of samples of completed mobile applications and best development projects.
Potential Employers look for mobile application development candidates with hands-on
experience on different application platforms, as well, and not just their respective education.
The more practical and direct experience you have, the better the chance that a potential
employer will consider you one of their top candidates.
The marketable skills employers are looking for in a mobile application developer include:
 Android app development
 iOS app development (Apple iPhone and IPad)
 Objective – C / C ++ programming
 Java Programming (Java ME/EE/SE)
 Javascript
 HTML
 CSS
 Object Oriented Planning (OOP)
 User Interface Design (IU)
 Mobile App Portfolio Assembly
 Database and OS Fundamentals
 Game and Simulation Programming
 Mobile Media Marketing and Deployment
Businesses require mobile applications development for more than one platform at a time to
maximize their marketing penetration, which can in turn exponentially increase their return
on investment. Because of this, you need to learn and master more than one mobile
development platform if you want to become a professional mobile application developer.
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Start by getting familiar with one of the above platforms and put all your efforts toward
mastering it. Once you’ve acquired all the knowledge and expertise of a particular platform,
switch to another platform and master it, but be sure to keep practicing the previously learned
platform. There are numerous institutions that can equip you with the skills and expertise in
these different mobile platforms.
Also, there are countless online tutorial and videos for beginners to help you learn coding.
Android and Apple have offer tutorials for beginners at Android Developers Training and
iOS Dey Center. These are virtual necessities for a career in mobile application development.

Mobile App Developer Job Opportunities

As smartphones are the most wanted device of this era, opportunities for a mobile
applications developer increase day by day. There are thousands of software houses and
mobile application development organizations now functioning all over the world and these
types of jobs actually comprise the third largest number of job openings in the United States,
says US News, and that number only promises to grow in the future.
The demand for talented and experienced mobile application developers and software
engineers is reaching new peaks due to the benefits and ease of customer interaction this kind
of software offers businesses and to consumers. The overall trend of business management
and operations is drifting towards computers and software, and this has opened up a ton of
opportunities for software developers and mobile phone application developers.
If you are enthusiastic about software and mobile application development, it is one of the
more modern careers with a promising future, with hundreds of opportunities and many ways
to earn big money.

Mobile App Developer Salary and Hiring Expectations

The average annual salary of a mobile application developer in the U.S. is around
$94,000, with differences appearing depending upon the exact position asked for, the related
industry, and location.
 Mobile Software Engineer – $90,000
 Senior Mobile Developer – $111,000
 iPad Application Developer – $95,000
 iPhone Application Developer – $95,000
 Blackberry App Developer – $89,000

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  Software Engineer – $90,000
 Java Application Developer – $96,000
 Javascript Developer – $ 124,000
 Android Application Developer – $97,000
 iOS Software Engineer – $102,000
 Lead Java Developer – $110,000
 Senior iPhone Developer – $105,000
 Senior Android Developer – $107,000
The hourly wage of a mobile application developer varies from $21 to $150, strictly
depending on the developer’s location, expertise and platforms.

Final Outlook on Mobile App Developer Career Path

It is the work of software engineers that has made our lives easier and has made the
whole world accessible. With the innovation of smartphones, we carry the world in our
pockets and the entire universe is just a touch away. Software developers invent these
applications that we take for granted. These kinds of things weren’t even heard of a few
decades ago, but they have become a necessity for us now. The alarm that you snooze at least
twice in the morning or the call that you make through Skype and even the calendar that you
use on your phone are all mobile applications that were designed to help make your life
easier.
The best software developers are talented, and have learned to channel their creativity and
technical expertise to showcase innovative ideas. In the coming years, there will be
remarkable growth in the mobile application development job market. It is these kinds of
skills and products that forms our present and will form the future.

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6. Web Developer
Web developers build and shape a visitor’s experience at a website. They do this
through the creation of page layouts (headings and paragraphs), website styling (colors and
fonts), and page features (animations and pictures).
Web developers work closely with project managers and designers to ensure the final product
adheres to the predetermined budget, scope, and design. While a Bachelor’s Degree in
computer science is not required for many positions, numerous years of hands-on experience
coding both websites and web applications is strongly desired.
Along with strong technical skills, front-end web developers must have excellent written and
oral communication skills, a solid grasp of graphic design, and exceptional time management
capabilities.
They must be able to troubleshoot issues quickly and to stay up-to-date on current and
emerging technologies, standards, and trends.
Through the use of code, such as HTML or JavaScript, web developers bring a website or
web application to life. Continued testing, maintenance, and updates are handled by the web
developer throughout the lifecycle of the website.
Web developers work for a variety of employers in the government, non-profit, and
corporate sectors. However, many also work independently on a contract basis or for web
development firms. While many web developer jobs can be performed within a
telecommuting setting, those who prefer a traditional workplace will find the most
opportunities in the states of Washington, California, New York, Texas, and Florida. The top-
paying states for web developers in 2017 were Washington, the District of Columbia,
California, New York, and Virginia

Education and Training

Education requirements can vary anywhere from a high school degree to a bachelor's
degree, and are dependent upon the job and employer requirements. However, a bachelor's
degree is typically required for advancement to a project manager role or for back-end
development positions.
Web Developer Salaries
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, web developers earned an average salary
of $67,990 in 2017. The bottom 10% of web developers earned an average annual salary of $
36,830, while the top 10% earned at least $ 122,320.

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Web Developer Skills
Here's a list of front-end web developer skills for resumes, cover letters, job
applications, and interviews.
Technical Skills: Employers often emphasize the following top technical skills on their
job advertisements for web developers.
 Actively Seek New Programming Knowledge
 Build Products Using HTML/CSS/JS and Other Front-End Technologies
 Code and Deploy Applications in a Cross-Platform, Cross-Browser Environment
 Document Project Build and Maintenance
 Experience Building User Interfaces and Prototypes from Wireframes and Designs
 Familiar with Development and Debugging Tools for Cross-Browser Issues
 Follow and Implement Industry Accepted Best Practices and Tools
 Solid Understanding of Object-Oriented Programming (OOP)
 Update Current Websites to Meet Modern Web Standards
 Write and Maintain Web Applications

Tools / Software Programs / Platforms: While many of these programs, tools, and
platforms can be self-taught, you’ll gain a slight advantage over other job candidates if
you’ve pursued formal training and obtained certification in their elements and use.
Certification providers include Microsoft (MTA and MCSD), Amazon Web Services (AWS
Certified Developer), and Oracle (APEX, OCP, OCM, OCE).
 Experience with Git and Github
 Experience with Photoshop
 Familiar with Social Media and Third Party APIs
 Knowledgeable of REST-Based APIs
 Knowledgeable of Web Application Development Frameworks
 Proficient with Javascript
 Solid Understanding of HTML5/CSS3, jQuery, and Responsive Design
 UI / UX
 WordPress, Theming, and Module Development Experience
“Soft” Skills: “Soft” skills are the interpersonal / “people” skills, personality traits, and work
habits that enable people to work productively, both independently and in team
environments.

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  Detail-Oriented
 Handle Frequent Feedback
 Keen Attention to Details
 Manage and Prioritize Multiple Projects
 Self-Starter Attitude
 Strong Problem Solver
 Thrive in a Team Environment
 Troubleshoot and Communicate Effectively
 Work Well Under Pressure

7. Software Engineer
We are looking for a Software Engineer to join our growing Engineering team and build out
the next generation of our platform. The ideal candidate is a hands-on platform builder with
significant experience in developing scalable data platforms. We’re looking for someone with
experience in business intelligence, analytics, data science and data products. They must have
strong, firsthand technical expertise in a variety of configuration management and big data
technologies and the proven ability to fashion robust scalable solutions that can manage large
data sets. They must be at ease working in an agile environment with little supervision. This
person should embody a passion for continuous improvement and test-driven development.
Responsibilities for Software Engineer
 Analyze, design and develop tests and test-automation suites.
 Design and develop a processing platform using various configuration management
technologies.
 Test software development methodology in an agile environment.
 Provide ongoing maintenance, support and enhancements in existing systems and
platforms.
 Collaborate cross-functionally with data scientists, business users, project managers
and other engineers to achieve elegant solutions.
 Provide recommendations for continuous improvement.
 Work alongside other engineers on the team to elevate technology and consistently
apply best practices.

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Qualifications
Although this area of work is open to all graduates, applicants will be expected to have
some technical ability. Having studied one of the following subjects may increase your
chances of employment:
 computer science
 computer software/computer systems engineering
 electronics
 information systems
 mathematics
 physics.
Many of the larger graduate recruiters will only employ graduates with proven technical
skills and a good degree (2:1 or above) in a computing-related discipline.
Smaller companies generally prefer degrees of a computing, scientific or numeric nature. In
some cases, however, graduates with an unrelated degree may be considered as long as their
technical knowledge and enthusiasm can be demonstrated.
Graduates in non-computer-related subjects may consider taking a postgraduate IT
conversion or technical postgraduate course. Many employers will also look for evidence of
continuing professional development (CPD) outside of the classroom. Project programming
experience can be used as evidence during the application process to show that a candidate is
technically adept and also has effective problem-solving skills.
An HND in a computer-related subject may improve chances of entry and candidates with
substantial systems development experience may be considered.
Entry without a degree or HND is unlikely, although it may be possible after gaining
considerable experience in systems development as an assistant.

Salary
 Typical graduate software engineer salaries start from £18,000 a year.
 The average annual salary for a software engineer is between £25,000 and £50,000.
 At senior or management level, software engineers can earn £45,000 to £70,000 or
more per annum. Bonus schemes may be available.
The exact salary you'll receive is dependent upon the company, location and nature of your
employer's business. The highest salaries can be found in the finance, pensions and telecoms
sectors in London and the South East.
Income figures are intended as a guide only.
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 Skills
You'll need to show evidence of the following:
 knowledge of computer systems and technologies
 technical competency
 the ability to communicate with clients, colleagues and management to explain
complex issues clearly and concisely
 a meticulous and organised approach to work
 a logical, analytical and creative approach to problems
 thoroughness and attention to detail
 business skills and commercial awareness
 the ability to work both in a team and alone and to manage your own workload
 career motivation and a willingness to continue to further your knowledge and skills
 an ability to learn new skills and technologies quickly
 an awareness of current issues affecting the industry and its technologies.
Recruiters may measure aptitude for the role via psychometric testing and programming tasks
at interviews. Get some pointers on how to prepare for interviews.
Entry is fairly competitive so make sure your CV and cover letter stand out for all the right
reasons. Project management and commercial acumen can strengthen an application.

Work experience
Relevant work experience is a good way of demonstrating a genuine interest in
computing and is regarded favourably by employers. Gain experience through course-related
placements, opportunities to work shadow or a year in industry.

8. Information Technology Vendor Manager

A IT vendor management role heavily involves working closely with vendors to make
purchasing decisions and maintaining relationships with vendors for as long as the company
uses them. Specific vendor management roles and responsibilities include visiting vendors to
inspect products, communicating with vendors to ask any product or price questions,
negotiating contracts to get the desired pricing, analyzing multiple vendors to decide which to
use for a particular product and providing leadership over purchasing agents and buyers. This
role requires you to be a good communicator and negotiator and have interpersonal skills to

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effectively maintain vendor relationships. Math and decision-making skills are important for
selecting vendors that best fit the company's needs.

Skills & Responsibilities

Typical day-to-day activities and in-demand skill sets for technology managers include
the following. ITvendor managers:
 Are responsible for strategic IT planning, including fostering innovation & allocating
monetary resources.
 Direct operational IT planning, including planning IT projects and the allocation of
manpower resources.
 Oversee the financial aspects of their IT team or dept., including purchasing,
budgeting & budget review.
 Coordinate IT staffing, including hiring, supervision, scheduling, professional
development and discipline.
 Collaborate with and maintain communications with executives and department heads
in the organization.
 Design, implement and enforce the policies, procedures and best practices for their IT
team or department.
 Research IT solutions and make recommendations for the improvement of IT systems
and IT infrastructure.
 Negotiate and approve technology vendor, outsourcing, and consultant contracts and
service agreements.
 Should have superior skills in team leadership, employee development and
interpersonal communication.
 Should have a strong command of project management principles, procedures and
best practices.

Education Requirements
In addition to having already worked in a purchasing role for several years, a vendor
manager typically needs a bachelor's degree in supply chain management or another business
field. These degree programs often include courses on topics beyond purchasing, such as
marketing, finance and management, that provide vendor managers a broader business
background. Vendor managers usually don't need a professional certification, but options

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include the Compliance Education Institute's Certified Regulatory Vendor Program Manager
certification and the International Association for Contract and Commercial Management's
Supplier Relationship Manager credential.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics classifies vendor managers as a subgroup of purchasing
managers, and it reported a May 2017 median wage of $115,760 for the occupation. Half of
the vendor managers were paid more than that, while half earned less. Managers in the
bottom 10th percentile made less than $66,630, and the top 10 percent received earnings over
$182,780. Average wages for top employers included $139,150 for management of
companies and enterprises, $114,830 for merchant wholesalers and $131,690 for the federal
government.

Years of Experience
Vendor manager salaries are often generous from the start and include profit sharing and
bonuses that increase over time. Senior management opportunities in procurement are
possible with significant experience. In May 2018, PayScale.com listed the following average
salaries for vendor managers based on career level:
 Entry-level: $68,000
 Mid-career: $87,000
 Experienced: $91,000
 Late-career: $113,000

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9. Geospatial Information Scientists & Technologists
Also called: Geographic Information System Analyst (GIS Analyst), Geographic Information
Systems Analyst (GIS Analyst), Geographic Information Systems Coordinator (GIS
Coordinator), Geographic Information Systems Specialist (GIS Specialist)
What they do:
Research or develop geospatial technologies. May produce databases, perform applications
programming, or coordinate projects. May specialize in areas such as agriculture, mining,
health care, retail trade, urban planning, or military intelligence.

On the job, you would:

 Produce data layers, maps, tables, or reports, using spatial analysis procedures or
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technology, equipment, or systems.
 Provide technical expertise in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technology to
clients or users.
 Perform computer programming, data analysis, or software development for
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) applications, including the maintenance of
existing systems or research and development for future enhancements.

Skills
Math and Science
 geography
 arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, or statistics
Engineering and Technology
 computers and electronics
 design
 English language
 teaching and course design
Basic Skills
 reading work related information
 listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
Problem Solving
 noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it
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 People and Technology Systems
 thinking about the pros and cons of different options and picking the best one
 figuring out how a system should work and how changes in the future will affect it
Ideas and Logic
 make general rules or come up with answers from lots of detailed information
 use rules to solve problems
Math
 choose the right type of math to solve a problem
 add, subtract, multiply, or divide

Education
Bachelor’s degree or master’s degree usually needed.

Salary
New job opportunities are likely in the future.
$46,240 ~ $139,390

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10. Data Modeler
Learn more about what data modelers do. Get details about the education and skills
required for employment. See what the career prospects are to decide if this career is right for
you.

Career Definition for a Data Modeler

Data modeling is the process through which a mass of data is separated into a
structure that makes it intelligible to the binary processes of computers and useful to a
business or large institution. Often working on a team of data architects, data modelers are
systems analysts engaged in translating business requirements into conceptual, logical, and
physical data models, who may focus on issues such as reducing redundancy of data within
an existing computer system or improving the way in which it moves from one system to
another.

Required Education
Many jobs in data modeling require a bachelor's degree with an emphasis on
computer or information science or applied mathematics; some employers seek those with
graduate or postgraduate courses in business or information systems management. Courses
recommended by the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) include digital logic and
data representation; computer architecture and organization; memory architecture and
directions in computing. Some jobs can be obtained through a combination of practical
experience and college courses in computer science.

Skills Required
Data modelers are enthusiastic learners, dedicated to customer service and quality
control. They also have excellent problem-solving and time management skills.

Career and Economic Outlook

The median salary for all computer systems analysts, of which data modelers are a
part, was $85,800 in May 2015, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Jobs
for computer systems analysts overall are projected to grow by 21% from 2014-2024, a rate
faster than the national average, according to the BLS.

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