People - IT occupations
Systems engineer

Employed by computer manufacturers and suppliers, computer retailers and computer bureaus.

Key Tasks

• Working out exactly what equipment and applications will be needed to meet a client's requirement.
• Advising and assisting clients set up computer systems.
• Providing on-going advice to existing clients.

Personal Qualities

• Good communicator, able to related to people, self motivated and confident. Logical, systematic thinker and practical problem solver. Must be able to work as part of a team.

Entry Requirements

• The right personal qualifications are often more important than academic qualifications.
• Most computer firms run aptitude tests to see if you are suitable for systems engineering, and then provide their own training.
• Most system engineers have a tertiary qualification in computer science, business computing or commerce.

Training

• Tertiary qualifications gained at University or Polytechnic provide entry-level requirements.
• Most firms will then provide in-house training.

Prospects

• Systems engineering consultancy, computer related management and own business.

[Rev 30/7/98] © 1996 V/2-Com (Verhaart), P O Box 8415, Havelock North, New Zealand.