Employment and Job Outlook for Computer Support Specialists & System Administrators

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Computer support specialists and systems administrators held about 734,000 jobs in 2000. Of these, about 506,000 were computer support specialists and about 229,000 were network and computer systems administrators. Although they worked in a wide range of industries, about one-third of all computer support specialists and systems administrators were employed in business services industries, principally computer and data processing services. Other industries that employed substantial numbers of these workers include banks, government agencies, insurance companies, educational institutions, and wholesale and retail vendors of computers, office equipment, appliances, and home electronic equipment. Many computer support specialists also worked for manufacturers of computers and other office equipment and for firms making electronic components and other accessories.

Employers of computer support specialists and systems administrators range from start-up companies to established industry leaders. With the continued development of the Internet, telecommunications, and e-mail, industries not typically associated with computers-such as construction-increasingly need computer-related workers. Small and large firms across all industries are expanding or developing computer systems, creating an immediate need for computer support specialists and systems administrators.

Computer support specialists and systems administrators are projected to be among the fastest growing occupations over the 2000-2010 period.

Employment is expected to increase much faster than the average for all occupations as organizations continue to adopt and integrate increasingly sophisticated technology. Job growth will continue to be driven by rapid gains in computer and data processing services, which is projected to be the fastest growing industry in the U.S. economy.

The falling prices of computer hardware and software should help businesses expand their computing applications and integrate new technology into their operations. To maintain a competitive edge and operate more efficiently, firms will continue to demand computer specialists who are knowledgeable about the latest technologies and able to apply them to meet the needs of the organization.

Demand for computer support specialists is expected to increase because of the rapid pace of improved technology. As computers and software become more complex, support specialists will be needed to provide technical assistance to customers and other users. Consulting opportunities for computer support specialists also should continue to grow as businesses increasingly need help managing, upgrading, and customizing more complex computer systems.

Demand for systems administrators will grow as a result of the upsurge in electronic commerce and as computer applications continue to expand. Companies are looking for workers knowledgeable in the function and administration of networks. Such employees have become increasingly hard to find as systems administration has moved from being a separate function within corporations to one which forms a crucial element of business in an increasingly high-technology economy.

The growth of electronic commerce means more establishments use the Internet to conduct their business online. This translates into a need for information technology specialists who can help organizations use technology to communicate with employees, clients, and consumers. Explosive growth in these areas also is expected to fuel demand for specialists knowledgeable about network, data, and communications security.

Job prospects should be best for college graduates who are up to date with the latest skills and technologies, particularly if they have supplemented their formal education with some relevant work experience. Employers will continue to seek computer specialists who possess a strong background in fundamental computer skills combined with good interpersonal and communication skills. Due to the rapid growth in demand for computer support specialists and systems administrators, those who have strong computer skills but do not have a bachelor's degree should continue to qualify for some entry-level positions. However, certifications and practical experience are essential for persons without degrees.