   COMPUTER NETWORKING
 PC/Computer Technician
Works with computer hardware and peripheral devices such as printers, monitors, scanners, and storage peripherals. Installs, configures, and troubleshoots desktop operating systems and applications including word processors, spreadsheets, presentation graphics, and electronic mail. Also installs, troubleshoots and supports PCs and various peripheral devices. Skills: Assembly, repair, and configuration of PCs and peripherals devices. Knowledge of major network communication protocols and applications, cables and connectors, and general knowledge of network components. 0-1 years of paid experience in corporate environment is required. A+ certification is a plus. Because this is an entry-level position, the compensation level is $18K-25K/year.
PC Software Specialist/Help Desk Technician
Works with microcomputer applications including word processors, spreadsheets, presentation graphics, database management systems, electronic mail and communications. Also evaluates, installs and support PCs and various printer, graphics and storage peripherals. Performs necessary hardware and operating systems upgrades. Often works in a Help Desk environment servicing calls from end-users. Skills: Troubleshooting and configuration of PCs and peripherals devices. Knowledge of major network communication protocols and a variety of applications, e-mail and remote control programs, and utilities. Excellent user support skills. General knowledge of network components. 0.5 -1 years of paid experience in corporate environment is required. MCP, A+, Net+ or CNA certification is a plus. Compensation level -$28K-37K/year.
Network/LAN Technician
Installs, maintains, and upgrades local area network's (LAN) hardware and software. Troubleshoots computer network peripherals. Resolves LAN communications and network operating systems problems as a "first level" support engineer. Installs operating systems software and utilities. 1-3 years of paid experience in corporate environment is required. Net+, MCSA, MCP, or CNA certification is a plus. Compensation level - $33K-50K/year.
Network/LAN Administrator
Installs and maintains local area network's (LAN) hardware and software. Troubleshoots network usage and computer peripherals. Manages new and existing users' accounts. Performs system backup and data recovery. Resolves LAN communications and network operating systems problems as a "second level" support engineer. Installs operating systems software, database management systems software, and utilities. Performs necessary hardware and software upgrades. 1-3 years of paid experience in corporate environment is required. MCSE, MCITP, MCP, MCTS, or CCNA certification is a plus but experience is preferred. Compensation level - $36K-75K/year.
Network Engineer/WAN Engineer
High-level LAN (Local Area Network) or WAN (Wide Area Network) technician. Plans, implements and supports network solutions between multiple platforms. Designs, installs, configures, and maintains local area or wide area networks hardware and software. Works with network routers, switches, and other peripheral devices. Establishing guidelines and monitoring network usage. Performs necessary hardware and software upgrades. Monitors and tunes systems software, peripherals and networks. Maintains internal and external web servers. Resolves systems problems as a "third level" support engineer. 3-5 years of paid experience in corporate environment is required. MCSE, or Cisco certification is a big plus but experience is always preferred. Compensation level - $55K-85K/year.
UNIX Systems Administrator
Installs and maintains UNIX/Linux operating systems. Configures UNIX/Linux boxes, establishes standards, and evaluates hardware and software products. Performs necessary hardware and software upgrades. Must be familiar with shell and kernel-level programming. Troubleshoots networking and operating system problems. Solaris or RHCE certifications are a plus but experience is preferred. Compensation level - $55K-85K/year.
Database Administrator (DBA)
Expert knowledge and hands-on skills in managing, maintaining, and recovering damaged databases such as Oracle database, MS-SQL database, MySQL database, or DB2 database. Strong knowledge of associated database servers (such as MS-SQL 2005/2008, Solaris 9/10, etc) and SQL language are essential. Microsoft or Oracle certifications related to the database management are big plus.
To give you some idea about the knowledge you must have, read to the following questions:
- What is RDBMS?
- What are the properties of the Relational tables?
- What are Normalization and De-normalization?
- What are different normalization forms?
- What is Stored Procedure?
- What is Trigger?
- What is View?
- What is Index?
- What is a Linked Server?
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- How to Backup/restore the database?
- How to Secure the database?
- How to move the database from server to server?
- How big should your database be, on how many files or filegroups?
- What kind of high availability solution will work best for you?
- How many different database roles do you need and how can you decide which users should be in each role?
- What configuration settings should be changed, and when?
- How often should you make log backups?
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These skills are always in high demand. Compensation level - $75K-100K/year.
Computer Networking/Windows 2003 Server Instructor
Expert knowledge and hands-on skills of the Network and Desktop Operating systems as well as PC hardware and peripheral devices (see above). Any high-level certification is a plus for hiring. Excellent presentation and people skills, patience and desire to teach are essential as well as MCT certification is essential. Compensation level: $30 - $60/hour (for contracts).
 WEB DESIGN/DEVELOPMENT
Web Site Designer
Designs Web site structure and efficient user interface (front-end). Creates web site layout, navigational menus, incorporates graphics, multimedia, documents, and texts into the web sites utilizing various design technique (DHTML, JavaScript, CSS, and others). Organizes and publishes the web sites content to the Internet or Intranet web servers. Updates or adds the files to the site. Manages web sites usability.
Skills include: HTML coding technique, Web Styles, Web Marketing and Usability Technique, Web Graphics, and Web Publishing. The familiarity with the following design tools:
- Adobe: Photoshop, GoLive, LiveMotion, Illustrator, Dreamweaver, Flash (including ActiveScript), and Fireworks.
- Other tools: Image Splitter, Graphics Animation/Optimization, more...
- Scripting: JavaScript (including commonly used libraries), DHTML, CGI, PHP
- Free and commercial CMS - Content Management Systems such as Cascade Server, ExpressionEngine, TextPattern, DotNetNuke, Ektron (or similar), and free: Drupal, Typo3, Cushy CMS, Frog CMS, Radiant CMS, ModX, SilverStripe, Alfresco, Typolight, DotCMS, Umbraco, CMS Made Simple, Mambo, See the Comprehensive List of CMS systems.
- Familiarity with Social Networking implementation and maintenance
CIW certification is a plus for an entry-level position if you have very limited experience but a demonstrated portfolio with samples of website design is more valuable. A certification from Adobe is more valuable. Compensation level -$40K-75K/year.
Web Graphics Designer
Designs efficient user interface (front-end) utilizing various web graphics and multimedia applications and utilities. Creates animated presentations, banners and headers, collages, icons, incorporates digital photos and other graphic elements into the web pages.
Skills include: HTML coding technique, Web Colors and Styles, Advanced Web Graphics, and Web Publishing. The expertise with the following design tools:
- Adobe: Photoshop, GoLive, LiveMotion, Illustrator, Dreamweaver, Flash, and Fireworks.
- Other tools: Image Splitter, Graphics Animation/Optimization, more...
Any Adobe certification is a plus but a demonstrated portfolio with samples of graphics is required. Compensation level - $36K-55K/year.
E-Commerce Web Developer
Develops various electronic commerce applications for Internet, Intranet (within a company) or Extranet (between the companies) for various industries and web commerce. Knowledge of particular industry is a big plus. Skills include all above for Web Site Designer. In addition: database development, SQL, ASP.NET, client-side scripting, ODBC, and many others. Knowledge of databases and shopping cart implementations (such as PayPal, Google Checkout, ZenCart, OScommerce, and many others) is a major requirement. MCSD, Oracle, Java certification is a plus but demonstrated experience is preferred. Compensation level -$55K-90K/year.
Web Applications Developer/Web System Developer
Develops various web-based applications for Internet, Intranet (within a company) or Extranet (between the companies) including but not limited to e-commerce, human resource, inventory, banking, and various data processing and workflow-type systems. Knowledge of particular industry is a big plus. Detailed knowledge of data structures and SQL, a proven track record in hands-on Web-based application development, and strong analytical and communication skills.
The positions require a BS degree and at least 3 years web development experience. Must have mastery of ASP, solid experience with Visual Basic, and knowledge of structured design and development methodologies. Knowledge of digital authentication, e-payment systems, system integration applications, and CASE tools is a plus.
Skills include: HTML coding technique, Web Styles, C/C++, Java, ASP, ASP.NET, VB.NET, JavaScript, Visual Basic Script, Visual Interdev, Oracle, Client-side scripting, ODBC, JDBC, SQL Server, XHTML, and XML. Senior candidates should have experience with COM/COM+/DCOM. Position could requires experience or knowledge of Microsoft's .NET Framework, Visual Basic.NET and ASP.NET.
MCSD, Oracle, Java certification are a plus but experience is preferred. Compensation level -$55K-95K/year.
Web Coordinator
Coordinates flow to and from internal and external web sites. Maintains presence on Internet including coordinating content delivery, monitoring activity, providing customer service, identifying best practices and adding documents to web sites. Requires Bachelor's degree in related field and one year related experience. Must be proficient with Web Publishing, Scripting, CMS (Content Management Systems) and Database tools. Certification is not required. Compensation level -$38K-48K/year.
Web Master
Depending on how Human Resource departments define the words "Web Master", the responsibilities and compensation could vary. We understand that this position requires the skills from several areas:
- Web Design (Web Publishing, HTML/DHTML, Web Styles, Web Marketing, CMS (Content Management Systems)...more)
- Web Development (databases, scripting languages, e-commerce)
- Computer Network Administration
- Internet Security (armoring web servers and operating systems)
- Internet Architecture (Domain Name System, WAN, routers, ... more)
A true Web Master is responsible for the configuration, maintenance, security, and support of Web servers.
- He/she monitors site traffic and helps scale server capacity to meet traffic demands and optimize performance.
- Responsible for installing and configuring web servers, managing day-to-day operations of web site, establishing site maintenance procedures, security, performing traffic analysis, generating site reports, and responding to visitor inquiries.
- Supports developers in the development, testing, and maintenance of web-based programs and client-side scripts.
- Performs all web server configuration tasks, maintains access control lists, and manages server logs.
- Generates traffic analysis reports and site integrity checks.
- Works with web developers to identify and correct any errors in site content or programming. Lends expertise to support internet-based applications.
- Answers webmaster email, forwards non-site-related inquiries to the appropriate staff, and tracks the volume and nature of the webmaster mail. Performs other duties as assigned.
College degree in related field (BS in Computer Science preferred). At least three years of relevant experience with Internet/Intranet and/or web site related activities. Relevant experience must be in the maintenance and operation of on-line web sites and web servers. Strong communications, project management, and leadership skills required. Any named above certification from Microsoft, Cisco, Novell or CompTIA are a plus, but 3-5 years of related experience is preferred. Compensation level - $50K-85K/year.
Web Design Instructor
Expert knowledge of the subjects and tools that Web Graphics Designer and Web Designer know (see above). Particularly, HTML, CSS, Adobe Photoshop, Macromedia Dreamweaver and Flash, current advanced design standards, layouts, Web Marketing technique and e-Commerce. Excellent presentation and people skills, patience and desire to teach are essential. Any Macromedia or Adobe certification is a plus for hiring (but it's not more than plus). The design portfolio with developed web sites is highly recommended. Compensation level - $35-$50/hour (for contracts).
Web Marketing Specialist/SEO specialist
SEO - Search Engine Optimization - is a "must have" for any e-commerce web site. It is not enough to have nicely designed web site. If you web site cannot be found by the potential buyers, forget about any sale! Thorough optimization of the web pages, the combination of several techniques, constantly changing requirements and new technologies (such as Web 2.0), testing-optimizing-testing cycle over and over are required until the results are achieved. In fact, SEO became an art, not a science.
Expert knowledge of the Direct and Web Marketing Technique, Web 2.0 technology, e-Commerce, and Google/Yahoo/MS Live - related knowledge in methods of optimization of the web sites. Excellent web content writing and people skills, great patience and attention to details are essential. People skills are important as one of the tasks for SEO Specialist is to interact with potential customers through the social network web sites. Demonstrated results in SEO is highly valuable. Compensation level - $30-$45/hour (for contracts) or $50K-85K/year.
Software Engineers/Programmers
Writes code enabling software programs to function. Designs, implements, and debugs software applications utilizing a variety of programming languages, such as C/C++, PHP Scripting, Java, Oracle, Cobol, and others. Knowledge of the life-cycle application development, Microsoft, Oracle or/and other technologies and development tools are required. Lately, the .NET programming experience along with Java proved to be well paid. MCSD (and similar), Oracle, or Sun Java certification are a plus. Compensation level -$55K-100K/year.
SharePoint Consultants/Programmers
Since Microsoft introduced the SharePoint platform, it became one of the most desirable in every mid-to-large size organizations. SharePoint allows companies to get rid of static Intranet web sites (those that are built inside the organizations) and replace them with highly-flexible and, most of all, highly interactive and customizable platform for today's computing and collaboration needs.
Year after year, Microsoft was improving the platform, and its popularity created a new type of job: SharePoint Administrators and SharePoint Designers - those who manage and customizes the platform to integrate "plug-in" components
Skills:
Strong SQL, SharePoint Designer, InfoPath, CSS XML/XSLT and IIS Administration experience.
Responsibilities / Qualifications:
- Should have experience as a SharePoint consultant/administrator for at least 5 years.
- Demonstrate subject-matter expertise in installing and configuring the Microsoft Office SharePoint Platform in large farm deployments. (Forms Services, Excel Services, Search, Business Data Catalog and Web Services)
- The ability to produce appropriate requirements and design documentation for SharePoint-related projects
- Strong SQL, SharePoint Designer, InfoPath, CSS and IIS Administration experience
- Experience with .NET architecture and design of .NET applications
Additional Skills:
- Have the ability to meet deadlines in a fast paced environment required.
- Be able to take direction and work independently.
- Possess strong communication skills.
- Have strong attention to detail and be able to work as a team player.
- Ability to adapt or respond to changes in strategy and scope
- Applicant must be able to handle yourself with a high level of professionalism. You will interact with business users and will report to the Manager, Solutions.
Compensation level -$65K-110K/year.
 INFORMATION SECURITY
Information Security Specialist
Implements and maintains the security of computer systems, network applications and databases including web servers, database servers, application servers, and other file servers. Implements the secure access mechanisms such as firewall and intrusion detection systems, access log analysers, and other similar products and technologies. Armors the desktop and network operating systems (Windows XP/Vista, Linux, Solaris) adjusting parameters and applying the latest security fixes. Deploys the anti-virus program across the network. Evaluates new secure access products and services assisting Internet Security Manager in maintaining the high level of secure access to the network resources across the enterprise. Knowledge of the Government standards such as FISMA, NIST is essential. The security clearance is a big plus due to the high demand from the companies that are working with the Government organizations. A CISSP certification from ICS(2), MCSE, CCNA, GIAC, are a plus and often are one of the requirements (especially for DoD jobs), but 3-7 years of related experience is a must. Compensation level -$65K-110K/year.
Internet Security Managers
Develops, enforces, and manages corporate security policies. Implements various security measures to protect networks, virtual private networks (VPN), operating systems, web servers, database servers, application servers, and other file servers against inside and outside intruders and computer hackers. Designs the security architecture and secure access mechanisms such as firewall and intrusion detection systems, access log analysers, and other products and technologies. Manages the deployment of security solutions for local and wide area networks. The CompTIA Security+ certification, CISSP certification, GIAC, MCSE, CCNA, CNE are a plus, but 4-5 years of related experience is a must. Compensation level -$70K-115K/year.
Security Analyst
The responsibilities are similar to the previous position regarding corporate security policies and procedures. Also, depending on the type of an organization, it could vary widely. The CompTIA Security+ certification ,CISSPTM certification from ICS², or GIAC are preferred along with 2-4 years of related experience. Compensation level -$70K-115K/year.
Security Auditor
(taken from real job ad)
- Experience developing, implementing and executing robust technical audit program.
- Perform system reviews to ensure group-level policies are working within compliance.
- Understanding FIPS 199, NIST 800-30 (Risk Management) and NIST 800-53 (Minimum Security Controls)
- A clear knowledge of how an IT audit works
- Router/Switch/Firewall Configuration
- NIDS/HIDS
- Experience in using audit tools such as: NESSUS, ISS, Fluke Analyzer, NMAP, NetStumbler,
- AppDetective, WebInspect
- Experience with Unix platform
Certification from ICS² (CISSP), or GIAC (Certified Auditor) are preferred along with 2-4 years of related experience. Compensation level -$85K-100K/year.
Lead Security Engineer
(taken from the real job ad)
- Candidate needs to have an extensive background in Information Assurance (IA), both hands-on and in
administering policy.
- Support the effort to monitor the Annual Self Assessments status for the 127 or so systems verifying
that the monthly assessment requirements are met.
- Assist with the FISMA reporting requirements as needed.
- Monitor status and completion of Plan of Actions and Milestones (POAMs) for the various systems.
- 10-15 years experience and a an advanced degree in electrical, electronics, or systems engineering
- Five years of this work experience must be directly related to the above description.
- A CISSP certificate is strongly desired
- Must be clearable up to a Secret Level
Compensation level -$85K-115K/year.
IDS Analyst
(taken from the real job ad)
- Knowledge of principles and techniques applied in securing operating systems with proficiency
specifically in both UNIX and Windows.
- Experience in shell scripting and the use of regular expressions for parsing through data for pertinent information relating to security events.
- Understanding of network operations, installation and network monitoring procedures.
- Experience with various types of Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) and knowledge of best practices regarding IDS architecture and signature development.
- Knowledge of CERT procedures and NOC operations.
- 7 years of IT experience + bachelors or 14 years of IT experience
- Experience with Security Information Management
- Handle concurrent projects and assignments
- Continue to expand area of knowledge in Network Security technologies and best practices
- Focus under pressure and respond appropriately to critical situations or incidents
- Must be able to obtain a DoD clearance level
Compensation level -$85K-120K/year.
Cloud/Virtualization Engineer
(taken from the real job ad)
New technologies create new job positions. For the several last years, the virtualization technology made a giant step up offering undoubted benefits to many organizations. Virtualization is software technology which uses a physical resource such as a server and divides it up into virtual resources called virtual machines (VM's). Virtualization allows users to consolidate physical resources, simplify deployment and administration, and reduce power and cooling requirements. Virtualization technology is also being used in data storage such as Storage Area Networks (SAN), and inside of operating systems such as Windows Server 2008 with Hyper-V.
In accordance to Wikipedia, Cloud Computing is a style of computing in which dynamically scalable and often virtualized resources are provided as a service over the Internet. The resources used by any particular company are located "in the cloud" (or simply, Internet). Cloud computing presumes that you use the browser to access the resources (software and storage) that are stored on the servers located elsewhere.
The employer is particularly looking for the following skills and expertise:
- 2+ years experience with ESX
- Storage (preferably NetApp)
- Citrix
- Description:
Support the design, deployment, and customization of a Platform as a Service Cloud Computing environment. Assist in the creation of a fully virtualized development environment for customers' application development and systems engineering staff. Participate in the planning efforts that will result in the construction of two additional environments and further expansion within the public sector.
- Core Concepts:
- Virtualization
- Networking
- Systems Engineering
- Secure Computing
Compensation level presumably -$85K-100K/year.
The 10 IT Skills in Most Demand (per CIOs Survey's Results) - 2009
Skills / Demand (% of surveyed)
- Network Administration - 70%
- Windows Administration - 69%
- Desktop Support - 69%
- Database Management - 58%
- Wireless Network Management - 47%
- Telecommunications Support - 47%
- Web Development/Design - 42%
- Business Intelligence - 33%
- Virtualization - 32%
- .Net Development - 22%
- CRM Implementation - 22%
HIGHEST PAYING IT CERTIFICATIONS
In accordance to Foote Partners, LLC, the highest paying certifications are IT security - related (such as CISSP and GIAC), Cisco certifications (such as CCIE and CCDE), Microsoft certifications (such as MCSD, MCA, MCT), and PMP certifications as well as some of the Oracle, Sun, Citrix, and IBM certifications. For a full list of IT certifications with highest compensation see the following PDF document.
13 Skills Every IT Pro Should Know
INFOSECURITY PROFESSIONALS RECEIVE SALARY INCREASES IN 2009. HIRING HEATING UP IN 2010.
The Hot IT Skills in Most Demand (Foote Partners' research)
Hot Skills (noncertified) right now include, among others:
- --Java EE,SE,ME
- --Linux
- --Virtualization (all)
- --Microsoft .NET
- --Business process management/modeling/ improvement
- --Unified communications/messaging
- --SAP (selected)
- --ERP
Hot Certifications include:
- --HP/Accredited Systems Engineer
- --GIAC Certified Incident Handler; Forensics Analyst; Intrusion Analyst
- --EMC Proven Professional Technology Architect – Expert
- --Citrix Certified Integration Architect
- --HP/Master Accredited Systems Engineer
- --Cisco Certified Security Professional
- --Check Point Certified Master Architect
- --EMC Proven Professional Implementation Engineer – Expert
- --IBM Certified Infrastructure Systems Architect
- --IBM Certified Specialist - Storage Networking Solutions, Version 2
- --Cisco IP Telephony Design Specialist --Cisco Certified Design Professional
Summary of IT Skills and Certifications
Which one do you like? Proceed to Step 3.
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