There has never been a better time to get started in the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) employment sector. In this article we’ll be highlighting four real-world career paths available in Australia for IT graduates right now.
CAREER PATH QUICK FACTS: The Australian government is predicting strong employment growth in nearly all ICT careers over the next 5 years. IT professionals enjoy lower unemployment rates compared to other employment sectors.
IT Support Technician (75k+)
IT Support Technicians work for call centres, corporations, and small business firms responding to inquiries about software, hardware, and networks. They instruct system users and carry out repairs to peripherals and hardware.
Prospects
The demand for IT Support technicians has grown significantly over the last 5 years, and the Australian government expects this growth to continue — with job opportunities opening up all over the country.
Key attributes
Analytical skills to identify and resolve system faults
Listening and speaking skills to effectively engage with clients, customers, and other system users
Writing skills to document network or system processes
Qualifications
As a minimum you’ll need one (or all) of the following nationally recognised qualifications:
- Certificate IV in Information Technology Support (ICT40215)
- Certificate IV in Programming (ICT40515)
- Diploma of Information Technology (ICT50118)
ICT Security Specialist (90k+)
ICT Security Specialists work to protect data and computer networks from infiltration by hackers and information thieves — as well as ensuring the network remains operational (and secure) during blackouts, periods of high use, and natural disasters.
Prospects
The demand for IT Security Specialists continues to grow, and there are job opportunities opening up all over Australia — in particular the Australian Capital Territory (ACT).
Key attributes
- Ability to apply risk management principles and strategies
- Working knowledge of procurement and supply chain management, and how they impact the security of the network
- Writing skills to document network security systems
Qualifications
As a minimum you’ll need one (or all) of the following nationally recognised qualifications:
- Certificate IV in Information Technology (ICT40115)
- Diploma of Database Design and Development (ICT50515)
- Advanced Diploma of Network Security (ICT60215)
Computer Network Professionals (100k+)
Computer Network Professionals install, configure and maintain an organisation’s network hardware and software. They manage everything from the network server, to individual workstations and user accounts — plus they recommend upgrade strategies inline with the growth of the business (and technological developments).
Prospects
Computer Network Professionals are in demand all over Australia, with excellent employment prospects over the next 3-5 years.
Key attributes
- Systems analysis skills to identify faults and optimise the network
- Writing and presentation skills to document proposals and request upgrades
- Problem solving and forecasting skills to keep the network up-to-date with technological developments
Qualifications
As a minimum you’ll need one (or all) of the following nationally recognised qualifications:
- Certificate IV in Systems Analysis and Design (ICT40715)
- Diploma of Information Technology Networking (ICT50418)
- Advanced Diploma of Computer Systems Technology (ICT60515)
ICT Manager (140k+)
ICT Managers ensure the smooth operation of an organisation’s ICT department, overseeing the network staff and their day-to-day activities. An ICT Manager assists with budgeting and planning for future business growth, and manages contracts relating to network operations and security.
Prospects
The demand for IT Managers is in a state of strong growth, with many employment opportunities becoming available over the next 3-5 years.
Key attributes
- Analytical skills to optimise the network for business operations and future expansion
- Leadership skills to manage a team of network analysts, programmers, and support technicians
- Writing and presentation skills to document upgrade proposals
Qualifications
As a minimum you’ll need one (or all) of the following nationally recognised qualifications:
- Certificate IV in Programming (ICT40515)
- Diploma of Information Technology (ICT50118)
- Advanced Diploma of Information Technology Business Analysis (ICT60315)