Wading the Waters

Link

This little endeavor into the job for a CST major has been an enlightening one indeed. Considering that I haven’t decided on which specialty I will be pursuing in my coming years at City Tech, I left my range for this job search very open. I did this to see if I found any commonalities betwixt the unique careers. What I had found was a surprisingly diverse job market with very similar wants and needs in terms of who they want to hire.

Personally, I do not know where my upcoming years at City Tech will take me. I am hoping that over the next couple of months I will be able to decide on the denomination that will decide the rest of my coursework. That way, I can properly prepare myself for my future job searches. This particular job search didn’t help much in regards to me deciding on what I want to do. It did, however, give me an opportunity to see what employers in the world of CST are looking for.

I happened upon many ideas shared between all of these different jobs. An idea that I saw often was that of experience. Even as I looked into entry-level positions, i saw one to three years of experience needed. Another idea that was mentioned heavily was the ability to work in a team in an effective and coherent manner. As working in any company would require this, it was of no surprise to me. Something else that made itself apparent was that potential employees be well versed in many different systems. It was also something to be expected as being a diverse and flexible employee is a must nowadays.

One thing that did surprise me though was something that I did not see. What I did not see was the fact there was no mention of training individuals while on the job. Now I know that is a lot to be expected of people in the workforce since time is money it didn’t make much sense to me. I mean this is a field where a multitude of different types of program, network, database, and security systems are going to be utilized. Maybe I’m just being naive. Seeing as how I’ve only learned certain things on the job, perhaps it goes without saying that they will teach employees how to use their systems. Those are what workshops are for.

Looking at all these jobs proved to show to me that I am utterly unequipped for what lies out there. These jobs had very desires that prospects know specific knowledge of particular systems. Viewing the requirements of some ads made my head spin. It just tells me that I need to focus on building up my resume’ and that constructing a high end portfolio is a must.

In conclusion, this was quite interesting. I’ve looked into the job market for CST majors before but never this extensively. In hindsight, I should’ve done something like this a long time ago. I feel as though I came out with something here.

Links:

http://jobview.monster.com/DESKTOP-SUPPORT-SPECIALIST-Job-New-York-City-NY-138525608.aspx

http://jobview.monster.com/Junior-Database-Systems-Administrator-Job-New-York-City-NY-135418568.aspx

http://jobview.monster.com/Network-Security-Engineers-Entry-Level-Job-Roslyn-NY-137981560.aspx

http://jobview.monster.com/Junior-Application-Developer-Job-New-York-City-NY-138171903.aspx

http://jobview.monster.com/Helpdesk-Desktop-Junior-Infrastructure-Support-Specialist-Job-New-York-City-NY-137399375.aspx

http://jobview.monster.com/IBM-Junior-User-Researcher-New-York-NY-Job-New-York-NY-138670825.aspx

https://newyork.craigslist.org/mnh/sof/4660605298.html

https://newyork.craigslist.org/wch/tch/4659685125.html

https://newyork.craigslist.org/wch/eng/4659894068.html

https://newyork.craigslist.org/mnh/tch/4659693242.html

http://www.careerbuilder.com/jobseeker/jobs/jobdetails.aspx?sc_cmp1=js_jrp_jobclick&APath=2.31.0.0.0&job_did=JHN2RX6CMP6JVC1Y6CM&showNewJDP=yes&IPath=ILKTV0A

http://www.careerbuilder.com/jobseeker/jobs/jobdetails.aspx?APath=2.31.0.0.0&job_did=J3G65F61TQ2JNTQN5GC&sc_cmp1=js_jrp_jobclick&IPath=ILKTV0G

http://www.careerbuilder.com/jobseeker/jobs/jobdetails.aspx?sc_cmp1=js_jrp_jobclick&APath=2.31.0.0.0&job_did=J3J7PR6JMJ0PTGZC26J&showNewJDP=yes&IPath=ILKTV0H

http://www.careerbuilder.com/jobseeker/jobs/jobdetails.aspx?sc_cmp1=js_jrp_jobclick&APath=2.31.0.0.0&job_did=J3G7W76DCQ7FNNV0CFJ&showNewJDP=yes&IPath=ILKTV0N

http://www.dice.com/job/result/10496420/853670?c=1&src=21&CMPID=AG_SH_UP_JS_AV_OG_RC_%20&utm_source=SimplyHired&utm_medium=Aggregator&utm_content=&utm_campaign=Advocacy_Ongoing&rx_source=SimplyHired&rx_campaign=SimplyHired15&rx_group=85&CMPID=AG_SH_PD_JS_AV_OG_RC_&rx_medium=cpc&src=34

https://www.ziprecruiter.com/job/Software-Developer-Entry-Level/f73459da/?source=cpc-simplyhired-nf-test40

 

 

 

Job Ads

For this assignment I used several different website to search for job in the field of computer system technology. Since I am studying in three different area of the CST field, I have the option to at several different type of job opening. While searching I noticed that there are different level of computer system technology of job enter. I look for job in the field of database, network security and java programing. In my search I found that employer require a bachelor degree or higher, and the appropriate area of study in the field of computer science. They also require you to have knowledge in the field of application.

In database, I found that the skill that employer require I have some knowledge of from the school. In addition to the skills I have learn in school, employer require some  whom can handle data recovery control, data remains consistent across the database. There also expect you to perform task like establishing the needs and monitoring user access and security, mapping performance and managing parameters to provide fast responses to front end users. This is similar to what I am currently doing at my internship at thefuture fm. I currently have a database where I create a user account and grant the user permission to use his/her account.

A network security is responsibilities to performs routine system administration and maintenance on local or remote location. While searching for jobs relating to network security, I found that employer require certification in different areas of security. The most common type of security certification is cisco CNNA certification. Some certification require you take a class, then take the certification test and some let you take the certification without a class. They also expected you to understand how to map a network in a server. I have one certification in network security and currently working on my second one.

While searching for jobs relating to java programing, I found that employer require you to read and write in more than one programming language.  Employer need employee to work in group in order to work on a project and employee need to have good communication skills in order to work for them. A programing read and identify error in a program, it is also there the responsibility to make sure the program perform the task it was written form. There are different level of programing jobs and employer will hire your skill in programming. Lower level employee know basic programming and higher level employee have certification in their field.  I know only java programing language and currently learning how to write in different language.

In my search I found that most employer require some sort of job experience in the field of technology when applying for a job. Some employer expected you to know about some of the software and hardware the use at their work site. I learn about some of the software and hardware the jobs use at city tech, which will give me a slight advantage over other for the job.

Cited

  • https://careers-smbcgroup.icims.com/jobs/1299/application-security-engineer—security-department/job?mobile=false&width=960&height=500&bga=true&needsRedirect=false
  • https://careers-nscglobal.icims.com/jobs/1167/security-operations-engineer-%28l3%29/job?utm_source=Indeed&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=Indeed&mobile=false&width=1040&height=703&bga=true&needsRedirect=false
  • https://ch.tbe.taleo.net/CH02/ats/careers/requisition.jsp?org=TWOSIGMA&cws=38&rid=675&source=Indeed
  • https://jpmchase.taleo.net/careersection/2/jobdetail.ftl?lang=en&job=1482948&src=JB-13027
  • https://erecruit.mtabsc.info/psc/ERPRD/EMPLOYEE/HRMS/c/HRS_HRS.HRS_APP_SCHJOB.GBL
  • https://erecruit.mtabsc.info/psc/ERPRD/EMPLOYEE/HRMS/c/HRS_HRS.HRS_APP_SCHJOB.GBL
  • http://job-openings.monster.com/monster/c47e6935-9027-4705-98a2-2fd61f630170
  • http://jobview.monster.com/Oracle-Database-Administrator-DBA-Job-Lockport-NY-US-138051551.aspx
  • http://job-openings.monster.com/monster/9152c656-244a-4868-af49-5ac29ba09fef
  • http://jobview.monster.com/Oracle-DBA-SQL-DBA-Job-New-York-City-NY-US-138955512.aspx
  • https://www.linkedin.com/jobs2/view/18390114?trk=jserp_job_details_text
  • https://www.linkedin.com/jobs2/view/16105759?trk=jserp_job_details_text
  • https://www.linkedin.com/jobs2/view/5566657?trk=jserp_job_details_text
  • https://www.linkedin.com/jobs2/view/19025328?trk=jserp_job_details_text
  • https://www.linkedin.com/jobs2/view/19065573?trk=jserp_job_details_text

IT systems management job ads, Iurii Druchuk

Because I am in the Computer Systems Technology field, and planning to continue and expand my study at this direction, I have made a search for the appropriate job ads. In particular, I have searched the web for the positions in the departments of the IT management, or IT project management. My search was focused mostly to be in the NYC area, however, there are interesting for me positions all over the country. As I was progressing through my research of the criteria and characteristics of the future employees, I have found numerous general and specific demands towards the potential workers.

Some of the characteristics are vague and they vary from ad to ad. For instance, some of the jobs require automobile insurance, and a vehicle. In general, the mobility here is what counts. One of the general characteristics is motivation. Many of the job ads need their employees to be motived and friendly to the workplace, and coworkers. In addition, it is expected for the candidate to be able to learn rapidly and absorb information quickly. The quicker the transition into the new workplace is the better it is.

All of the hiring companies or institutions demand from the future employees a high level of verbal and written communication skills. In the USA, it is, in particular, English language. Moreover, many employers include the need of the potential employee to be able to work both with and without other workers. Being ready for teamwork and independent ability to work is crucial and highly expected. It is also required for the person to be a problem solver, to be able to proactively oversee the future problem or handle hazardous situations when it had happened. Ability to apply a logical and common sense approach to problem solving is as well important. Quick, effective troubleshooting methods through using the IT service management strategies. Giving technical support to customers and personal of the company. Hence, these are some of the most common criteria amongst the ads.

Another of the most common criteria is qualification. Minimum of 3 years, for a decent job in the field is required. Some of the high paying job ads include higher experience period, of course, and the lower salary jobs expect the lower requirements in the experience. Education is as well important. Most of the employers look for the 4-year degree in the IT related fields. In addition, the one of the most common characteristics for the candidates to be highly organized and have excellent planning skills. Also, the future worker has to possess strong leadership skills. Especially if one is an IT project manager.

After these general skills, there are very specific skills that the future IT manager has to possess. These are deeply professional and technical skills acquired over the years of study and practical experience. These include:

Administrative skills with using specific software such as SharePoint, Microsoft Exchange Server. IT managers are highly expected to possess the practical knowledge about Microsoft Office software, VMware applications. As well, operate and administer such system software as Microsoft Windows and Mac OS, Linux and UNIX bases, including server editions of these operation systems.  Many of the ads include requirements of setting and operating SQL Servers, Crystal Reports, and Microsoft Dynamics. Overall, the future worker has to know how to operate, troubleshoot and maintain both hardware and software components of the complex systems.

As for me, I am in the NYCCT in the major of CST, exactly to gain a good start for my career in the IT management field. Regarding the criteria, I have found in the job ads, I have number of the characteristics these employers require. These are ability to learn and adapt rapidly, critical thinking and logical problem solving. I have also practical experience in  troubleshooting, optimizing and maintaining PC desktops, laptops and simple networks. From the NYCCT I expect to be provided with the basics of the IT management. I believe the education here will more precisely familiarize me with variety of software and hardware that is being used nowadays in industries and by companies.

At this point, my conclusion is that I am not ready for the IT management job position. I have confidence that I will learn fast, however, I have no experience and enough knowledge about more complex systems. The taken courses here gave me more theory than practical knowledge as for now.

 The links to ads:

  1. http://www.jobscore.com/jobs2/unifiedsocial/it-manager/caa1bolhyr5j0-iGalqWdr?Board=Indeed&PID=1946075
  2. http://www.indeed.com/viewjob?cmp=Preston-Harris-Group&t=IT+Project+Manager&jk=4d2a4a137d5c9409&sjdu=QwrRXKrqZ3CNX5W-O9jEvZnY6dm0twqGgnjbB-NLDuAnuABeh8mdQfWM_IFLER6ld7jmOwPa_lPzJTVuX9RCJA
  3. http://www.rabobank.jobs/cs/en/position/m61354/Head_ITI_Data_Center_Services.html
  4. http://www.rabobank.jobs/cs/en/position/m61354/Head_ITI_Data_Center_Services.html
  5. http://hire.jobvite.com/CompanyJobs/Careers.aspx?k=Job&c=qOm9VfwY&j=oe1wZfwu&s=Indeed
  6. http://www.careerbuilder.com/jobseeker/jobs/jobdetails.aspx?sc_cmp1=js_jrp_jobclick&APath=2.31.0.0.0&job_did=JHN6416G2Q2CPL5XPWK&showNewJDP=yes&IPath=ILKV0H
  7. http://www.careerbuilder.com/jobseeker/jobs/jobdetails.aspx?sc_cmp1=js_jrp_jobclick&APath=2.31.0.0.0&job_did=J3G78C6NXN3V248YDWK&showNewJDP=yes&IPath=ILKV0B
  8. http://www.careerbuilder.com/jobseeker/jobs/jobdetails.aspx?sc_cmp1=js_jrp_jobclick&APath=2.31.0.0.0&job_did=JB74HN6ZGSMWQ9N8JPL&showNewJDP=yes&IPath=ILKV0F
  9. http://jobview.monster.com/Tier-II-IT-Computer-Technician-North-Canton-OH-Job-North-Canton-OH-US-136947880.aspx
  10. https://www.theladders.com/job/jobboard?cr=8775298&pl=s4-T3
  11. https://uboc.taleo.net/careersection/10000/jobdetail.ftl?job=33514-C&lang=en
  12. http://www.simplyhired.com/content?jobkey=797c1d73e6cea8db2d665d653f37c091d2e7ba&cparm=cF9pZD0xMDAyJnpvbmU9NiZpcD0xNzMuMy40OC4xMSZjb3VudD0xMCZzdGFtcD0yMDE0LTA5LTA4IDA4OjI4OjQwJmNvdW50cnk9dXMmcHVibGlzaGVyX2NoYW5uZWxfaWRzPTYmYV9pZD03NzcwOSZjX2lkPTUzNzM2JmNwYz0wLjcxJnBvcz0zJmhhc2g9YjlhOWNmZTEzODIzOThiYWNkYmQ2OTlkMzUxNDFiNDE%3D%3Bae46eadf211138f05a5893920e015272
  13. http://careers.express-scripts.com/job/details/Lake+Mary%2C+FL/Information+Technology/manager-it-qa-1400057n?src=JB-10069
  14. https://careers.informatica.com/jobs/IT08229/Redwood-City-California-IT-Operations-Service-Manager?SID=244
  15. http://newyork.craigslist.org/que/sad/4653555313.html
  16. http://www.careerbuilder.com/jobseeker/jobs/jobdetails.aspx?sc_cmp1=js_jrp_jobclick&APath=2.31.0.0.0&job_did=J3H2S75YWFC4D0NT6WQ&showNewJDP=yes&IPath=ILKGV0R
  17. http://tmsservices.com/employee/engineering/195-it-systems-manager

 

Job Search

In my job search, I’ve look through about twenty job ads. I used only one website. (www.careerbuilder.com). On the drop down menu I went into the “information system” category. It shows many available jobs for information system, however, not all of it seem like what it is suppose to be for. One of the work’s description was “passing out papers and relaying messages”. I double checked to see if i was in the right category, and yes, i was. I learned a little from that search. Always ask for the job description, because some times the employers might have put up an ad looking for something, but not at the right category or field.

So, I did find some ads which the description matches my field. Some of the job offer seem to be looking for a technician. The employer is looking for someone who is able to install, configure and maintain building printers, install software programs, and install hardwares. I felt something is off. then i remember the search “information system” is too broad. There are many fields within “information system”. Anyway, this job description did include some responsibility that is in the security field, which is in my module. However, the wage is ranged from $15 – $17. It seem quite low for the amount of work listed. because I’ve checked other ads and some included the wage. and it ranges from $20 – $30 starting from first year. Luckily for for the lower salary ad, it doesn’t require previous job experience.

The ads that belong in the security field of ” information system” seem hard to get into, because of the requirement. The line “To be considered for this position, you must minimally meet the knowledge, skills, and abilities listed” scares me. especially the word “minimally” and it required 6 years of experience. For a person whom just graduated from college may not be able to be accepted by this company. Most of the company ask for experience in Linux/Unix, taken and is IS certified and conduct ongoing periodic reviews, and work in fast pace environment. The listed requirements besides the working experience is expected. Linux/Unix is free and consider as the safest operating system, so companies tend to lean toward it. Certificates is also expected because technology is constantly changing, thus the users must stay up to date. Almost all technicians have to work in fast pace because employees must do their work.

The education I received in City Tech module classes seem very basic. I have a feeling that when I start working, i will need to go online and look up on how to do certain things. Throughout my first module computer security class, we’ve talked about the concept viruses. Some of my second and third module class seem to repeat its lesson from the prerequisite. However, not everything is useless, i did learn from those class. But, its just not what i had expected. When i get an internship, that should be when I would know what is need and required of me. If i have anything I need to learn. I can ask for my associate’s help, or go online. Like what most of the people in my module class tell me, go online for help and don’t rely on the college to teach you everything.

 

Links to the Ads

Information System Security Analyst

System Analyst

ISSO

Information System Coordinator 

Clinical System Analyst

Information Technology Administrator 

Senior System Administrator

Windows System Administrator 

Business Information System

 Information System Analyst

System Engineer 

Information System Specialist

System Administrator

Senior System Administrator 

Information Security Officer

Vincent’s Job Search

During my job research I found out many job opportunities that a Computer Systems Technology major can actually get into. I did however, focus on three different specific job occupations that a Computer Systems Computer Technology major can get into and I am also interested with these fields I chose and hopefully I will be successful going into them.  The three pathways that I searched was on Computer System Analyst, Information Security Analyst and Network and Computer Systems Administrators. These three fields have different task that requires a person to have some knowledge on computers and how computers interact with the world that we live in.

Computer System Analyst’s job in the organization is to deal with computer systems and their procedures.System analysts design the organizations plan  in the organization and also provides better solutions to help the organization with their computer systems needs to become more efficient and effective.  I found out that as a Computer System analyst you will need an understanding of what an information technology (IT) does. As an example how systems in the computer work and how to troubleshoot the computer systems. Employers are looking for computer analysts who at least have their bachelors degree in computer fields such as Computer Systems Technology and Information Technology. Most systems analysts work full time based on my research and mostly people who are in it work 40hrs a week. Computer Information Security Analysts on the other hand, carry out the responsibilities to protect and secure the organization’s computer networks and systems. Security analysts provides security in the organization and help the organization to be more security against hackers. Their responsibilities are continually expanding as the number of cyber attacks increase. The work environments in which Information Security Analysts go into are companies, banks, business and financial companies. Mostly information security analysts must have a bachelor’s degree in a computer-related field and they also need some experience in the related field. Lastly, Computer networks are almost part of every organization. Network and computer systems administrators are responsible for the day-to-day operation of these networks. They do computer updates in the companies to help the companies to become more updated and efficient. Network and computer systems administrators work with the physical computer networks of a variety of organizations and they are employed in many industries because they are in need in companies. Employers are looking for employees who have at least certificates with networking, and they also require a bachelor’s degree in a field related to computer or information science. Employers will also look for an employee who can communicate well in these jobs because projects in the workplace are done in groups and as employee you need to be able to communicate well with others in order to get the task done.

My education at New York City Technology have helped me broaden my knowledge and gave me myriad of ideas on what these jobs in Computer Systems Technology are all about in the work place. Classes that I took such as programming and networking gave me a hands on experience that can be very useful in the work place. One thing that I found out very useful is that New York City College of Technology offers a work experience such helping students with their internship in their related works. In order for a student to graduate in City Tech from a Computer Technology field he/she must find an internship that deals with the modules that the student chose. In my opinion it will not only look good for the student but also it is a great experience to have a hands on experience with your field because companies will look for an employee who has an experience with the fields that they are in.

Here are the links that I used for my job search:

WWW.HIRE.COM

http://www.careercast.com

WWW.LABOR.STATE.NY.US

www.nycjobbank.com

WWW.NONPROFITSTAFFING.COM
WWW.GURU.COM
http://www.collegegrad.com/careers/proft43.shtml
WWW.CAREERJOURNAL.COM
WWW.NEWYORKJOB.COM/
http://www.careerbuilder.com

WWW.COMPUTERWORK.COM

https://efixmetrocard.mtanyct.info/internshiponline/StudentHome.aspx  [Used for my Cover Letter]

http://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/home.htm

 

 

Ray’s Mini Job Search experience

Hello, my name is Ray as you may already know from the title of this post. I did a mini job search in the field of my major which is Electrical Engineering Technology. I found out that there are many different work positions in my field, they range from service technician all the way to Controls Engineering Manager. These positions requires similar skills yet, varies from one another but the common base requirement is to have experience working in the field or a degree in this specific field of work. Most of the technician positions only require one to have a Associate Degree, some requires a Bachelor’s Degree in the field of Electrical Engineering Technology, and the position that requires a Bachelor’s Degree is Electrical CAD Technician where it requires the applicant to have skills in the area of Computer-aided design, AutoCAD Mechanical, AutoCAD, Microsoft PowerPoint, Electrical CAD, Adecco Engineering, as for English skills it was never specify by the employer, however the common English skills were communication and reading comprehension. Different companies has different requirements, let’s take Con Edison for example to work as a Electrical Technician they requires the applicant to possess the ability to perform repairs and calibrations on electrical and electronic measuring instrumentation, as well as troubleshoot and repair analog and digital control systems, and also be the ability to push/pull/lift equipment and materials up to 50 pounds. The aforementioned skills are the common skills that are required to work as an engineering technician, there are also position such as a service electrical technician that only requires to have a high school diploma but with a much different set of skill requirement such as Cost accounting, Programmable logic controller, Development aid, Hydraulics, Design-build and systems and prototypes.

All these skill requirements are classes that i have to take in order to graduate with bachelor’s degree in Electrical Technology, I now see the reason why we are required to study so many different courses ranging from circuit analysis to electronic and then digital control, there are lab classes that each and every students are required to for the major of Electrical Engineering Technology, where they teach the students how to use the software such as AUTOCAD which is used for 2D and 3D computer aided design and drafting, and other courses such as electronic’s laboratory where the students learn how to analyze the frequency and signals generated by your everyday electronics. The circuit analysis lab is the most substantial course, where the students learn the base material needed to understand electrical components, there are also courses that didn’t quite fit into the major, such as public speaking and advance technical writing, but now I see that all these courses provides the students, with the skills and knowledge needed to become an expert in the field of our future careers.

 

 

Below are links to the job ads that i used as sources for this post.

http://www.careerbuilder.com/jobseeker/jobs/jobdetails.aspx?sc_cmp1=js_jrp_jobclick&APath=2.21.0.0.0&job_did=JHS7GC6PTYF76P33Q19&showNewJDP=yes&IPath=JRKV0A

http://www.careerbuilder.com/jobseeker/jobs/jobdetails.aspx?sc_cmp1=js_jrp_jobclick&APath=2.21.0.0.0&job_did=JHN41W6TRY9X3B14Y6C&showNewJDP=yes&IPath=JRKV0B

http://www.careerbuilder.com/jobseeker/jobs/jobdetails.aspx?sc_cmp1=js_jrp_jobclick&APath=2.21.0.0.0&job_did=JB77B35YFQJG0GXCKMC&showNewJDP=yes&IPath=JRKV0C

http://www.careerbuilder.com/jobseeker/jobs/jobdetails.aspx?sc_cmp1=js_jrp_jobclick&APath=2.21.0.0.0&job_did=JHN6N7701M1DM376Q7X&showNewJDP=yes&IPath=JRKV0G

http://www.careerbuilder.com/jobseeker/jobs/jobdetails.aspx?sc_cmp1=js_jrp_jobclick&APath=2.21.0.0.0&job_did=J3H2TC71HH273R0M9G1&showNewJDP=yes&IPath=JRKV0I

http://www.careerbuilder.com/jobseeker/jobs/jobdetails.aspx?sc_cmp1=js_jrp_jobclick&APath=2.21.0.0.0&job_did=J3J10J6FTJ6FZL07TKV&showNewJDP=yes&IPath=JRKV0N

http://www.careerbuilder.com/jobseeker/jobs/jobdetails.aspx?APath=2.21.0.0.0&job_did=J3J1PR6JFYR75QHVTKP&sc_cmp1=js_jrp_jobclick&IPath=JRKV0R

http://www.careerbuilder.com/jobseeker/jobs/jobdetails.aspx?sc_cmp1=js_jrp_jobclick&APath=2.21.0.0.0&job_did=JHL4CD75VBFXDF45K1P&showNewJDP=yes&IPath=JRKV0T

http://www.careerbuilder.com/jobseeker/jobs/jobdetails.aspx?sc_cmp1=js_jrp_jobclick&APath=2.21.0.0.0&job_did=JHS7GC6PTYF76P33Q19&showNewJDP=yes&IPath=JRKV0A

https://home.eease.adp.com/recruit2/?id=10663991&t=1

http://www.indeed.com/cmp/TVH-Parts-Co/jobs/Electrical-Engineering-Technician-656908d289722263

http://www.careerbuilder.com/jobseeker/jobs/jobdetails.aspx?sc_cmp1=js_jrp_jobclick&APath=2.31.0.0.0&job_did=JHR5M45Y7CP09J29J3M&showNewJDP=yes&IPath=ILKV0P

http://www.careerbuilder.com/jobseeker/jobs/jobdetails.aspx?sc_cmp1=js_jrp_jobclick&APath=2.31.0.0.0&job_did=JHM10Z74V3NDRF3W6P0&showNewJDP=yes&IPath=ILKV0V

http://apps.coned.com/careers/careers/list.asp?category=Skilled+Trades+-+Bargaining+Unit#20055707

http://web.mta.info/nyct/hr/engineering.htm

 

 

Jason’s Job Search

For this assignment I looked for jobs related to both Software Development and IT support, since these are two fields I’m interested in.  I’ve also worked in the IT support field twice before, so I can rely on this experience.  I looked specifically at entry level positions, both part time and full time.  After reviewing all of these different job descriptions, requirements, and preferences, I’ve gotten a better feel for what employers are looking for.

Some of the more common openings I’ve come across are for IT support and web development.  Web developer positions have very content-specific requirements.  Typically they want you to be knowledgeable in several specific programming languages, like HTML, CSS, PHP, and JavaScript.  They also want future employees to have experience with tools like WordPress.  Having a portfolio or website of your own to demonstrate is a big plus, since they can see your previous work and get a feel for your strengths and weaknesses.

Software development jobs are very similar to web programming in this regard.  They want potential employees to be skilled in multiple programming languages, and they have to be languages which they use as well.  If your expertise is Java but the position needs a C++ expert, you aren’t going to get that position.  Java is one of the most commonly used languages, so having that on your resume is certainly beneficial.  When looking at these job ads, I usually see Java, C/C++, Python, and Ruby listed.  If you’re applying for a job like this, you should know at least two of these languages.

IT support jobs tend to be a bit less content-specific.  Generally, they want you to have previous experience as IT support.  You should be familiar with troubleshooting Windows operating systems, and common applications such as Microsoft Office Word, Excel, etc.  Hands on experience is a big plus, or sometimes even a requirement, since these jobs will require you to install and remove hardware, and maybe even hands on troubleshooting.

Being a strong communicator, both written and verbal, is a huge benefit for essentially any kind of job.  Yes, even these jobs.  Even a back-end programmer who doesn’t deal with people every often.  From my experience, just about every employer wants a good communicator.  Even as a programmer, you may have to collaborate with others.  Being able to communicate properly is vital; if you fail to express your idea clearly, the project you’re working on may come out wrong.  Obviously, communication is also essential for IT support, since in this position you’ll be working with people who aren’t tech savvy.  If you start explaining something to them in complicated, highly technical lingo, you’re not going to get through to them.  In an IT support position, you’re going to be dealing with different kinds of people.  Simplifying the complex is something you’ll have to do quite often, just like in technical writing!

All of these jobs demand a rather tech savvy employee.  You’ll be working with computers, among other machines, so you need to know how they work, how to use them, and how to fix them.  City Tech doesn’t really give you this type of hands on experience.  I got all my hands on experience on my own time, building and fixing computers both for work and hobby.  I’ve had to do this in the IT positions I’ve held, and I’ve built my own personal computers for gaming.  To be honest, I don’t consider most of the programming courses I’ve taken to be helpful either.  More often than not, I’m learning from w3schools.com.  My professors even use that website as a guideline.  Many times, I’m teaching myself as well.  That’s how I got my foot in the door anyway, nobody taught me programming initially.  I started programming on my own in 2008, developing modifications for PC games, and I did this just by trial and error.  It’s not that hard since programming is all logic.  Still, having the college credits and courses on your resume is a must.  Most jobs require at least some college education, if not a bachelor’s degree in that field.

Work experience is crucial.  Not only do you need it on your resume; even if you’re a genius who can write the most complex code on your spare time, having the experience of working with others and meeting deadlines is necessary, and this is the experience you’ll build on at the workplace.  Therefore, my work experience has certainly been beneficial in helping me meet the needs of these types of employers.

Here are all of the job application links I used.

Reminder: HW for W 9/10

I hope you’re all having wonderful weekends! Thank you to those of you who have already made your “Introduction” posts … they are great! Don’t forget to read each other’s posts and comment on them throughout the week.

As discussed in class, the goals for this first week are to become familiar with OpenLab and the course themes, materials,and guidelines/expectations, and to begin to research the job market, communication expectations, and career materials for your particular field.

There are a number of different things due before our next class (on W 9/10), so don’t forget to consult our dymanic course Schedule, as always, for all HW (and make sure to click through to all the links, which take you to relevant readings, posts, assignments, and information). Just a friendly reminder that all posts are due the night before class begins; formal assignments are due at the start of class.

There are a number of things that need doing (some brief readings, another post, your “job search” & Cover Letter + Resume in response), and you also need to get a Dropbox account and join our shared class folder (this is where you will be submitting your Career Materials for this Wednesday, and all other assignments this semester going forward). Please don’t hesitate to e-mail me with any questions (and remember, I have office hours on Tuesdays, 11:15am-12:15pm if you want to discuss anything in person). Looking forward to seeing you again in a few days 🙂