Network Systems and Data Communications Analysts

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What They Do

Network systems and data communications analysts are part of a large team of highly trained computer specialists who set up computers to connect with each other, allowing millions to share bits of data.

These workers connect all the computers internally—in an individual office, department, or establishment—or externally, and help many organizations who rely on email and the Internet. A primary goal of networking is to allow users to retrieve data from a mainframe computer or a server and use it on their desktop computer. Computer specialists must design the hardware and software to allow the free exchange of data, custom applications, and the computer power to process everything.

Networks come in many variations, so network systems and data communications analysts are needed to design, test, and evaluate systems such as local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), the Internet, intranets, and other data communications systems. Systems can range from a connection between two offices in the same building to globally distributed networks, voice mail, and email systems of a multinational organization. For each of these different areas, a particular specialist is needed.

Employment

Network systems and data communications analysts held 262,000 jobs in 2006. A growing number of computer specialists are employed on a temporary or contract basis. Many of these individuals are self-employed, working independently as contractors or consultants. Such jobs may last from several months up to two years or more. This growing practice allows companies to bring in people with the exact skills the firm needs to complete a particular project, rather than having to spend time or money training or retraining existing workers. Often, experienced consultants then train a company’s in-house staff as a project develops.

Job Outlook

Despite the recent economic downturn among information technology firms, workers in this occupation should still enjoy favorable job prospects. The development of new technologies usually leads to demand for various kinds of workers. The expanding integration of Internet technologies into businesses, for example, has resulted in a growing need for specialists who can develop and support Internet and intranet applications. The growth of electronic commerce means that more establishments use the Internet to conduct their business online.

The introduction of the wireless Internet creates new systems to be analyzed and new data to be administered. The spread of such new technologies translates into a need for information technology professionals who can help organizations use technology to communicate with employees, clients, and consumers. Explosive growth in these areas also is expected to fuel demand for specialists who are knowledgeable about network, data, and communications security.

Education and Earnings

For some network systems and data communication analysts, such as Webmasters, an associate’s degree or certificate is sufficient, although more advanced positions might require a computer-related bachelor’s degree.

Despite employers’ preference for those with technical degrees, persons with degrees in a variety of majors find employment in these computer occupations. The level of education and type of training that employers require depend on their needs. One factor affecting these needs is changes in technology. Employers often scramble to find workers capable of implementing “hot” new technologies. Those workers with formal education or experience in information security, for example, are in demand because of the growing need for their skills and services.

Most community colleges and many independent technical institutes and proprietary schools offer an associate’s degree in computer science or a related information technology field.

A bachelor’s degree is a prerequisite for many jobs, however, some jobs require only a two-year degree. Relevant work experience also is very important. For more technically complex jobs, persons with graduate degrees are preferred. Individuals with the right experience and training can work in these computer occupations regardless of their college major or level of formal education.

Employers usually look for people who have broad knowledge and experience related to computer systems and technologies, strong problem-solving and analytical skills, and good interpersonal skills.

Technological advances come so rapidly in the computer field that continuous study is necessary to keep one’s skills up to date. Employers, hardware and software vendors, colleges and universities, and private training institutions offer continuing education. Additional training may come from professional development seminars offered by professional computing societies.

Typical annual earnings of network systems and data communication analysts were $68,220 in 2007.

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Sources of Additional Information

For career information and links to employment resources contact:

U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook: http://www.bls.gov/oco/

Occupational Information Network, O*NET Online: http://online.onetcenter.org/

Further information about computer careers is available from any of the following organizations:

Association for Computing Machinery (ACM): http://www.acm.org

Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Computer Society: http://www.computer.org

National Workforce Center for Emerging Technologies: http://www.nwcet.org

For information about planning and paying for college, visit Junior Achievement’s Financial Aid Center .