COMPUTER NETWORK ADMINISTRATOR - Evolving Occupation
(SOC) Standard Occupational Classification Network and Computer Systems Administrator 15-1071
OES Computer Scientist, NEC 25199
Computer network administrators manage local area networks (LAN) and wide area networks (WAN) within a firm. They participate in the configuration of the network, research technical manuals and brochures, and recommend purchases of application servers, peripherals, and software. They test and evaluate the hardware and software to determine efficiency, reliability, and compatibility with the system and upgrade components when necessary. They also direct the work of network technicians and computer support staff.
TASKS - 1) Develops plans to safeguard computer files against accidental or unauthorized modification, destruction, or disclosure and to meet emergency data processing needs. 2) Coordinates implementation of computer system plan with establishment personnel and outside vendors. 3) Tests data processing system to ensure functioning of data processing activities and security measures. 4) Modifies computer security files to incorporate new software, correct errors, or change individual access status. 5) Confers with personnel to discuss issues such as computer data access needs, security violations, and programming changes. 6) Monitors use of data files and regulates access to safeguard information in computer files. 7) Writes reports to document computer security and emergency measures policies, procedures, and test results. 8) Must maintain knowledge of new technologies including Storage Area Networking and Application Service Provider.
The following lists the KSA's for Computer Security Specialists (O*NET) 15-1071.01
KNOWLEDGE
Computers and Electronics - Knowledge of electric circuit boards, processors, chips, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
SKILLS
Programming - Writing computer programs for various purposes
Writing - Communicating effectively with others in writing as indicated by the needs of the audience
Idea Generation - Generating a number of different approaches to problems
Implementation Planning - Developing approaches for implementing an idea
Mathematics - Using mathematics to solve problems
ABILITIES
Deductive Reasoning - The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to come up with logical answers. It involves deciding if an answer makes sense
Oral Comprehension - The ability to understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences
Written Comprehension - The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing
Oral Expression - The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand
Near Vision - The ability to see details of objects at a close range (within a few feet of the observer)

WORKPLACE COMPETENCIES - Computer Network administrators need to be patient, creative, methodical and well organized. They should also have an eye for detail and problem-solving ability, and they should be able to meet deadlines and manage people.
EDUCATION AND TRAINING REQUIREMENTS - Computer Network Administrators are usually management positions and often require a Bachelor's degree. However, many in this position began as computer network technicians with vocational training and certification in either vendor-specific or vendor-neutral products. Additional coursework in Administration and Management will help network technicians advance to administrator positions. CIP - 52.1204

WAGE ESTIMATES - Based on the Texas 2000 Occupational Employment Statistics for a Network and Computer Systems Administrator, the Annual Wage was $51,530 and the Median Wage was $23.08 per hour. (Source: Texas Workforce Commission/Labor Market Information Department)

OUTLOOK - In 1998 there were 5,150 Computer Scientest, NEC employed in Texas. The projected growth rate is 75.7%. The number of openings through 2008 is projected to be 420 (growth - 390, replacement - 30) per year. (Source: TWC/LMI)

INDUSTRY - Information Technology

Last Updated on 8/21/01