What You Need to Know About Computer Systems Engineer/Architect
Example of Computer Systems Engineer/Architect Job Design and develop solutions to complex applications problems, system administration issues, or network concerns. Perform systems management and integration functions.
Life As a Computer Systems Engineer/Architect
- Design and conduct hardware or software tests.
- Investigate system component suitability for specified purposes and make recommendations regarding component use.
- Identify system data, hardware, or software components required to meet user needs.
- Provide customers or installation teams guidelines for implementing secure systems.
- Establish functional or system standards to address operational requirements, quality requirements, and design constraints.
- Provide advice on project costs, design concepts, or design changes.
Computer Systems Engineer/Architect Needed Skills
Below is a list of the skills most Computer Systems Engineers/Architects say are important on the job.
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.
Other Computer Systems Engineer/Architect Job Titles
- Enterprise Architect
- Linux Systems Engineer
- Systems Engineer
- Network Engineer
- Systems Consultant
Job Outlook for Computer Systems Engineers/Architects
There were about 287,200 jobs for Computer Systems Engineer/Architect in 2016 (in the United States). 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.
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.
Average Computer Systems Engineers/Architects Salary
The salary for Computer Systems Engineers/Architects ranges between about $47,350 and $144,820 a year.
Computer Systems Engineers/Architects who work in District of Columbia, Maryland, or New Hampshire, make the highest salaries.
Below is a list of the median annual salaries for Computer Systems Engineers/Architects in different U.S. states.
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 to Become a Computer Systems Engineer/Architect
What education or degrees do I need to become a Computer Systems Engineer/Architect?
How many years of work experience do I need?
Who Employs Computer Systems Engineers/Architects?
Below are examples of industries where Computer Systems Engineers/Architects work:
You May Also Be Interested In…
Those interested in being a Computer Systems Engineer/Architect may also be interested in:
References:
Image Credit: Negative Space via CC0 License
More about our data sources and methodologies.