The Wall Street Journal recently published an article ranking two hundred jobs from best to worst. The results were chosen based on five criteria: physical demands, work environment, income, stress, and hiring outlook. This year, Actuary was ranked at number one and Newspaper Reporter was last at number two hundred. At KellyMitchell, we pulled out a list of best and worst tech jobs from the list that the Wall Street Journal created. Here’s a look at the information we gathered:
The best tech job, ranked highest on the list at number three is Software Engineer. The main purpose of a Software Engineer is to develop information systems by designing, developing and implementing software solutions. A Software Engineer determines operational feasibility by evaluating analysis, problem definition, requirements, solution development, and proposed solutions. By developing documentation, flowcharts, layouts, diagrams, charts, code comments and clear code, a Software Engineer can better demonstrate problem solutions. Some other duties include preparation and installation of solutions by determining and designing system specifications, standards, and programming.
Skills/Qualifications: Analyzing Information, General Programming Skills, Software Design, Software Debugging, Software Documentation, Software Testing, Problem Solving, Teamwork, Software Development Fundamentals, Software Development Process, and Software Requirements.
Computer Systems Analyst ranks number ten on the list. A Computer Systems Analyst implements computer system requirements by defining and analyzing system problems, designing and testing standards and solutions. One of the main job duties is evaluating procedures and processes and develops a solution by preparing and evaluating alternative workflow solutions. Computer Systems Analysts control solutions by establishing specifications and coordinating production with programmers. Updates job knowledge by participating in educational opportunities, reading professional publications, maintaining personal networks and participating in professional organizations.
Skills/Qualifications: C, COBOL, Software Design, Software Documentation, Software Testing, Software Maintenance, Software Development Process, Software Requirements, Teamwork, General Consulting Skills, Software Architecture
Web Developer sits at number twenty on the best and worst jobs list. Web Developers create user information solutions by developing, implementing, and maintaining Internet/intranet applications and a leading team of developers. By analyzing user requirements and envisioning system features and functionality, Web Developers are better able to serve their networks. Developers use interfaces by setting expectations and features priorities throughout development life cycle, determining design methodologies and tool sets, completing programming using languages and software products and designing and conducting tests.
Web Developers recommend system solutions by comparing advantages and disadvantages of custom development and purchase alternatives. A primary job duty is integrating applications by designing database architecture and server scripting, studying and establishing connectivity with network systems, search engines, and information servers. Creating multimedia applications by coordinating requirements, schedules, and activities, contributing to team meetings, troubleshooting development and production problems across multiple environments and operating platforms is another essential job function for a Web Developer.
Skills/Qualifications: Verbal Communication, Web User Interface Design, Web Programming Skills, Software Requirements, Software Architecture, Software Development Fundamentals, Object-Oriented Design (OOD), Multimedia Content Development, Software Debugging, Technical Leadership, Written Communication.
At number thirty-eight we have Computer Programmers. Computer Programmers prepare computers by installing and modifying system software. An essential job function is to prepare system software installation by studying software capabilities and operations including task scheduling, memory management, file system, and input and output requirements. Computer Programmers detect work stoppage or errors by conducting tests and monitoring output. Another essential job function is to optimize system efficiency by analyzing performance indicators.
Computer Programmers also prepare references for users by writing operating instructions. Maintaining client confidence and protects operations by keeping information confidential is important for Computer Programmers. They also must ensure operation of equipment by following manufacturer’s instructions, troubleshooting malfunctions, calling for repairs and evaluating new equipment and techniques.
Skills/Qualifications: C, COBOL, System Administration, Quality Focus, Operating Systems, Independence, Software Debugging, Software Documentation, Software Testing, Software Maintenance, Software Performance Tuning.
Nearing the middle of the list at number sixty are Technical Writers. The main task of a technical writer is to decipher many different types of information and arrange them in a format that clearly explains the objective. A writing job description for a technical writer may require experience in software manuals, text books, product instructions, technical online content, memorandums, employee manuals, policy manuals, and grants.
Technical writers generally bring a uniform tone to all company communications and policies so that there is a consistent voice throughout. The education requirements for a technical writing job may include accredited technical writing training or a four-year degree depending on the needs of the organization and the scope of the project.
Skills/Qualifications: Verbal Communication, Multimedia Content Development, Software Debugging, Technical Leadership, Written Communication, Teamwork, General Consulting Skills.
Rounding out the bottom of our list are Computer Service Technicians which rank 113th on the list of best and worst jobs. Computer service technicians are called in when computers or computer equipment are not working property. They talk to the customer, inspect the equipment, and determine the problem. Technicians may often run diagnostic programs or use testing equipment to locate specific problems. Sometimes the malfunction is in the system or other parts of the hardware.
At other times, the problem is the software. After pinpointing the malfunction, the service technician must repair it. This may be accomplished by replacing semiconductor chips, circuit boards, or other components. Repair may also be handled by fixing the mechanical parts of the computer. Service technicians inspect the computers and peripherals and adjust, oil, and clean parts as preventive maintenance. They are also responsible for installing new equipment and testing it to make sure it is in working order. Service technicians who work in the field/site use their own vehicle or may be provided with a company car or van. Individuals work varied hours depending on their shift and may be called in to handle emergencies.
To see more results from the Wall Street Journal list, please visit this link.
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