Systems Architect

Systems Architect Career Overview

System architecture is a sub-branch of systems engineering. Individuals working as systems architects are the high-level designers of computer systems about to be implemented. They help come up with the fundamental structure of the system, making sure to outline the key design features that are more difficult to change later.

One way to think about what systems architects really do is to consider the role of traditional architects who design homes, supermarkets, and museums while considering aspects such as usability, security, and functionality. Both systems architects and traditional architects come up with the vision and suggest how best to achieve it, the only difference is that systems architects do this all in a computer.

Over the course of any given work day, systems architects could be asked to handle any of the following tasks:

• Explain, critically evaluate, and review software application architecture for various projects
• Test software to ensure that the application meets desired specifications
• Install, test, and maintain software

Due to the fact that missteps can ultimately derail entire software projects, systems architects must thoroughly think through each step of the process. As such, IT professionals usually require around 10 years of experience before they can be seriously considered for systems architects positions. 

Systems Architect Training and Education

There is no one single career path that IT professionals must take before getting the chance to become systems architects, but it is generally acknowledged that employment requirements include an undergraduate degree in a discipline such as computer science, software engineering, or computer systems engineering.

Since jobs systems architecture are usually available only to experienced IT professionals, people interested in this line of work should have prior experience in a job such as software designing or computer programming. Beyond this, demonstratable expertise in areas that include but are not limited to networking, security, and mainframe development are also beneficial. In addition to degrees and training, successful systems architects need to focus on relevant certification programs to stay on top of the latest developments in the industry.

Systems Architect Salary Outlook

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects substantial growth in the years ahead for IT jobs, so positions for systems architects are sure to increase as well.

As far as compensation goes, salary data company PayScale reports that median salary of US-based IT professionals with systems architecture skills is USD 63,938 after less than a year of experience, USD 69,084 after one to four years of experience, USD 85,083 after five to nine years of experience, USD 102,514 after 10 to 19 years of experience, and USD 121,568 after 20 or more years of experience. Its findings, which were updated in April 2009, reflect the responses of 734 persons.

Another PayScale study shows that systems architects can expect different salaries depending on the sector their employers are in. For instance, the median salary is USD 98,545 at companies, USD 90,331 at non-profit organizations, USD 88,800 with the federal government, USD 73,511 at hospitals, and USD 84,322 at at private practices/firms.

Career Fields/Specializations

Lead Developer

Lead developers work closely with software architects to clearly explain architecture details. A solid programming background is a must for lead developers. Developers with at least a few years of experience under their belts are prime candidates for positions as lead developers.

Lead Programmer

Lead programmers head groups of programmers that are responsible for creating software applications that meet the specifications of the systems analysts and software engineers they work with. Programmers who have gained valuable work experience can ultimately apply for lead programming positions.

Computer Systems Engineer

Computer systems engineers are responsible for establishing networks for their companies or clients by means of assessing and installing software, hardware, and anything else required. The best computer systems engineers also think about how to get the most out of their networks.

Systems Architects are a unique breed of IT professional. Only after years of experience in at least one IT-related specialty can IT workers be seriously considered for systems architects jobs. With strong growth prospects in the years ahead for IT positions, systems architects with the right educational background, experience, and certification stand to win positions that provide solid salary growth potential.

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