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Computer Systems Engineer/Architect

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What is a Computer Systems Engineer/Architect?

Job Description & Duties Design and develop solutions to complex applications problems, system administration issues, or network concerns. Perform systems management and integration functions.

Daily Life Of a Computer Systems Engineer/Architect

  • Evaluate existing systems to determine effectiveness and suggest changes to meet organizational requirements.
  • Develop or approve project plans, schedules, or budgets.
  • Provide advice on project costs, design concepts, or design changes.
  • Evaluate current or emerging technologies to consider factors such as cost, portability, compatibility, or usability.
  • Communicate with staff or clients to understand specific system requirements.
  • Verify stability, interoperability, portability, security, or scalability of system architecture.

What Skills Do You Need to Work as a Computer Systems Engineer/Architect?

Computer Systems Engineers/Architects state the following job skills are important in their day-to-day work.

Critical Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.

Reading Comprehension: Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.

Active Listening: Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.

Systems Evaluation: Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed to improve or correct performance, relative to the goals of the system.

Writing: Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.

Complex Problem Solving: Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.

Types of Computer Systems Engineer/Architect

  • Architect
  • Software Systems Engineer
  • Solution Architect
  • Solutions Architect
  • Firmware Engineer

Computer Systems Engineer/Architect Job Outlook

In the United States, there were 287,200 jobs for Computer Systems Engineer/Architect in 2016. New jobs are being produced at a rate of 9.3% which is above the national average. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts 26,600 new jobs for Computer Systems Engineer/Architect by 2026. The BLS estimates 22,400 yearly job openings in this field.

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The states with the most job growth for Computer Systems Engineer/Architect are Washington, Utah, and Nevada. Watch out if you plan on working in Alaska, Maryland, or Mississippi. These states have the worst job growth for this type of profession.

Computer Systems Engineer/Architect Salary

The average yearly salary of a Computer Systems Engineer/Architect ranges between $47,350 and $144,820.

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Computer Systems Engineers/Architects who work in District of Columbia, Maryland, or New Hampshire, make the highest salaries.

How much do Computer Systems Engineers/Architects make in each U.S. state?

State Annual Mean Salary
Alabama $87,060
Alaska $98,830
Arizona $85,010
Arkansas $73,670
California $103,270
Colorado $102,470
Connecticut $100,340
District of Columbia $117,540
Florida $78,900
Georgia $90,140
Hawaii $89,960
Idaho $80,610
Indiana $79,310
Iowa $78,810
Kansas $79,300
Kentucky $79,420
Louisiana $66,600
Maine $79,790
Maryland $113,330
Massachusetts $92,110
Michigan $76,400
Minnesota $81,650
Mississippi $81,280
Missouri $82,610
Montana $68,430
Nebraska $86,230
Nevada $72,610
New Hampshire $112,440
New Jersey $99,210
New Mexico $79,540
New York $90,750
North Carolina $88,650
North Dakota $70,730
Ohio $82,440
Oklahoma $78,490
Oregon $79,610
Pennsylvania $87,040
Rhode Island $81,290
South Carolina $92,100
South Dakota $81,250
Tennessee $74,000
Texas $90,290
Utah $76,890
Vermont $72,220
Virginia $105,270
Washington $91,620
West Virginia $83,660
Wisconsin $74,600
Wyoming $75,780

What Tools & Technology do Computer Systems Engineers/Architects Use?

Although they’re not necessarily needed for all jobs, the following technologies are used by many Computer Systems Engineers/Architects:

  • Microsoft Excel
  • Microsoft Office
  • Hypertext markup language HTML
  • JavaScript
  • Microsoft PowerPoint
  • Git
  • Web browser software
  • Python
  • React
  • jQuery
  • Microsoft Access
  • Node.js
  • MySQL
  • Data entry software
  • MongoDB
  • SAP
  • Microsoft Windows
  • Microsoft Project
  • Autodesk AutoCAD
  • Adobe Systems Adobe Acrobat

How do I Become a Computer Systems Engineer/Architect?

What kind of Computer Systems Engineer/Architect requirements are there?

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How Long Does it Take to Become a Computer Systems Engineer/Architect?

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Computer Systems Engineers/Architects Sector

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The table below shows some of the most common industries where those employed in this career field work.

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Similar Careers

Those thinking about becoming a Computer Systems Engineer/Architect might also be interested in the following careers:

References:

Image Credit: Negative Space via CC0 License

More about our data sources and methodologies.

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