futures APRIL 2009
futures4 FOCUS INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
All systems go: the role
of a systems developer
S
YSTEMS developers work on
the internal operations of
computers, solving problems
using existing systems or
incorporating new
technologies to meet particular needs.
They test both hard and software
systems, and diagnose and fix faults.
The role also covers writing diagnostic
programs and designing and writing
codes for operating systems and software
to ensure that they function more
efficiently. When required, they make
recommendations for future
developments.
They might also create systems in
response to technical specifications
supplied by an IT analyst. This can
sometimes mean integrating off-the-shelf
software packages into the existing
systems.
Tasks vary according to the type of
organisation and size of employer that
you are working for, but can involve:
consulting colleagues or clients with
a view to writing or modifying systems
evaluating and implementing ways to
incorporate existing or new
technologies
testing, diagnosing and fixing faults
in the software
writing and testing codes
writing systems to control the
scheduling of jobs on a computer or to
control access allowed to other users
undertaking project work
Job titles and descriptions in IT are not
as standardised as in some other
industries. In some cases, systems
developers may be called systems
programmers, analysts or engineers. In
some areas, a systems developer may have
a more defined role and work within a
group of specialists, which can include
systems analysts and designers, or they
may work solely on testing systems.
SALARY AND CONDITIONS
THE range of typical graduate starting
salaries start from �20,830 to �25,770.
Typical salaries at senior or management
level range from �26,000 to �70,000 or
higher if bonus schemes are available.
Salary at all stages is dependent on the
size of the installation and its location
and can be enhanced by specialist
experience.
Working hours tend to include working
out-of-office hours, including weekend
work. Extra hours are required to
complete project deadlines and also
during the testing stage so that the system
can be tested when no one else is using
the machines. The work is mainly office
based or in computer laboratories.
Self-employment or contract work is
possible as there is an increasing market
for contract systems developers who have
developed specialist knowledge. There is
also a demand for contract software
testers and some contract systems
programming work for experienced
practitioners.
Around 20-30% of systems developers
are women. However, gender imbalance
across the industry as a whole is a
recognised issue. Intellect UK has formed
the Women in IT forum to lead action to
increase the representation of women.
The job involves spending long hours at
the keyboard, so high levels of
concentration are required but regular
breaks are essential to minimise potential
effects on your health.
Depending on the nature of the
business, travel within a working day or
absence from home at night may be
required. With consultancy work this will
be more likely. There is more travel
involved in installation and
implementation work.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
ALTHOUGH this area of work is open to
all graduates, applicants will be expected
to have some technical ability. The
following subjects may increase your
chances: computer science/software
engineering; mathematics; physics;
electronics; computer engineering.
Many of the larger graduate recruiters
will only take on graduates who have
proven technical skills and a good degree
(2:1 or above) in a computing-related
discipline. However, in some cases,
graduates with an unrelated degree may
be considered as long as they have a
technical knowledge and enthusiasm.
Smaller companies, in particular,
generally favour degrees of a computing,
scientific or maths nature.
Graduates in subjects other than
computer science or software engineering
may wish to consider a postgraduate IT
conversion or technical postgraduate
course.
HND diplomates with substantial
applications programming experience
may be considered. An HND in computer
studies or software engineering may
improve your chances of entry.
Entry without a degree or HND is
unlikely, although it is possible after
gaining considerable experience in
applications programming.
Relevant work experience is a good way
of demonstrating a genuine interest in
computing and is looked on favourably by
employers. Experience can be gained
through course-related placements or a
year in industry. Voluntary work in areas
such as web design is also an option.
Potential candidates will need to show
evidence of the following:
knowledge of computer systems and
technologies
the ability to communicate with
clients, colleagues and management
a logical, analytical and creative
approach to problems
the ability to explain complex issues
clearly and concisely along with a
strong attention to detail
the ability to work in a team and
manage your own workload
business and commercial awareness
Recruiters may test for aptitude
through psychometric testing and
programming tasks at interviews.
TRAINING
IT IS vital to keep up to date with changes
and developments in the industry, which
may involve using your initiative and
taking responsibility for updating your
technical skills and knowledge.
Large graduate employers often offer a
structured programme and you will gain
experience in team-related projects in
different work areas. Most companies offer
ongoing training, either in-house or via
external courses. If you are employed by a
smaller company you may need to consider
the cost and time implications of taking
responsibility for your own training.
You can complete courses to obtain a
variety of software-specific certifications,
such as Microsoft or Oracle. These
courses can be expensive but are
recognised throughout the sector and can
enhance your career prospects.
Other professional qualifications are
available through the British Computer
Society (BCS) . The BCS can also help by
providing guidance to members on
recognising and planning learning needs
and developing areas of expertise.
The Institution of Analysts and
Programmers (IAP) also offers up-to-date
information on training and relevant
industry-recognised qualifications.
E-skills UK � The Sector Skills Council
for IT and Telecoms � has developed a
Graduate Professional Development
Award (GPDA), which comprises a key
skills component covering areas such as
communication and problem-solving
skills, as well as technical competency.
SCREEN TEST: A student at Lakes College West Cumbria learning the latest in IT

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