Being a systems engineer can be a fulfilling career choice for those who enjoy working with math equations and formulas. In today’s world that is so dependent on technology, many businesses need to hire in-house systems engineers. These engineers maintain computer systems and ensure that they function in an efficient manner. A systems engineer can also salvage a system that has been affected by viruses. A systems engineer plays a very important role in ensuring that a business functions at its optimum level. Maybe you have wondered, “How do I become a systems engineer?” When you want to become a systems engineer, it is essential to pursue an education that focuses on a specific area of engineering.
What’s it like to be a systems engineer?
When you become a systems engineer, you work as a part of a team for a company or the government. You seek to understand the type of systems that a company uses in its daily operations. You need to ensure that the data output is efficient. It is also important for you to understand the system of data organization for a company. It is also your responsibility to research the possible causes of downtime for a company’s computer system. You will need to figure out ways to prevent downtime in the future. The typical systems engineer only works about 40 hours a week. If a company’s website is experiencing downtime, then you may need to put in some extra hours. You may need to dedicate more time to improving the functioning of a company’s computer system. Part of your job may also entail meeting with company directors to discuss the implementation of a new system for a company.
Education Requirements
To become a systems engineer, you should pursue a degree in engineering. It is also helpful if you pursue a degree in computer science or mathematics. Engineering management can also be a solid degree for this type of career. Companies want to see that you also have excellent communication skills and are able to work well with others. Your daily tasks may involve writing proposals for a company. You may need to write proposals that are read by your supervisors and that discuss the status of all of your projects. It is also a wise idea to participate in a co-op that focuses on systems engineering. Many large companies will advertise these positions at colleges. You should pay attention to any on-campus interviews that a large company is conducting for co-op positions. Co-op positions are an excellent way to be exposed to the systems engineering field and earn a salary at the same time.
Salary & How to Get a Job
The starting salary for a systems engineer is about $80,000 a year. It is also possible to earn a greater salary if you work for a company for over five years. To become a systems engineer, you should try to apply for open positions at engineering firms. You can speak with a career services specialist at your college to discuss any on-campus interviewing events that will be hosted too. Large companies frequently travel to college campuses in order to do their recruiting and hire engineering students. On-campus interviews are a great way to get your foot in the door with a large engineering firm.
References:
1. http://www.ehow.com/how_2071005_become-systems-engineer.html
2. http://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes172112.htm