How To Become A Systems Engineer
Systems engineering is a complex area of engineering that requires professional to manage and design various projects throughout their stages of development. Systems engineers work with computer technology, computer applications and problems that can occur within them, and computer network complications.
Why Become A Systems Engineer
There are many reasons why you may want to become a systems engineer. For one, you may highly enjoy problem solving and technological systems, and have a desire to create and succeed in solving complex problems that can arise with computer systems.
Most of our world today is controlled by computers; without computers much of our infrastructure simply would not work. Everywhere we go and most everything we do has something to do with computer programs and technology. Systems engineers are needed to develop computer hardware and software, and repair any failures that can occur.
Systems engineers are technologically literate and savvy, and know the “ins-and-outs” of all aspects of computers. Many organizations, corporations, and businesses need these experts on hand at all times, if not to resolve computer issues, at the very least to monitor the performance of these systems.
There are specific steps that systems engineers must follow and are trained to adhere to over the life of a systems project, which is called the Systems Engineering Management Plan. It is broken down into specific stages: scope, requirement, design, implementation, integration, testing, deployment, and training with support. Knowledge of this SEMP is extremely vital in systems engineers’ job responsibilities.
Since effectively solving enormous tasks cannot be done alone, systems engineers must have excellent communication skills. These professionals must be able to work with others in managing the many projects they are responsible for. Interacting with the other professionals within the business, corporation, or government facility is crucial, especially during times of a highly demanding project.
Systems Engineer Work Environment
The advanced projects, or systems, that engineers design and implement are quite complicated, and require an extensive amount of familiarity of computers of varying sizes. Since there is such a vast number of systems in our world today, the work environment can be almost anywhere. Examples of systems include telephone and other communication systems, electric and power systems, sewage and water treatment facilities, airports and other transportation systems, food distribution, product distribution, defense programs, and so many more.
The work environment can be quite demanding, as systems engineers must coordinate project management and problem solving with other engineers to get the project successfully completed. Systems engineers can work in private corporations or industries, or for the government.
Systems Engineers Salary
Systems engineers can have a yearly salary of anywhere between $60,000 to over $100,000. Salaries are based on experience and education and the type of corporation they work for. For example, a systems engineer that has several years’ experience may make more than an entry level professional, or a military corporation offer higher wages than a small business.
Systems Engineer Career Outlook
Computer systems have been around for many years, and they continue to progress with more enhanced technology arising every few years. Although the career outlook is not fast growing, it is keeping at a consistent level, and the world corporations and business will always need system engineers. Therefore, it is a solid career choice with a good outlook.
Systems Engineer Degree
A bachelor’s degree is required in this field, but in addition, systems engineers must have an immense understanding and knowledge of computer systems. In order to gain more qualifications for this position, many systems engineers earn master’s degrees or even doctorate degrees in systems engineering. Also, most companies require up-to-date certification or any special focus certification with the degree. Becoming certified does allow for advancement in the career and a higher salary. If you have a dream of working with computer systems, and are able to perform complex tasks within those computer systems, then a systems engineer may be your dream career!
