Careers in technology

Data Scientist

A Data Scientist uses technology and computer science principles to organise and filter large amounts of data (Big Data).

Their goal is to devise solutions to complex problems.

Problems are very broad and diverse but include:

• Ensuring people are sent advertising that is interesting to them
• Solving difficult crimes for the Police and secret services
• Helping to develop more effective treatments for cancer
• Developing more efficient cars, planes, buildings etc.

Skills needed:

• Have an understanding of how to sequence instructions to solve a given problem
• Be able to use skills often needed when using spreadsheets
• Be able to think creatively and have resilience to keep on going
• Be able to communicate with others

Qualifications needed:

• Most jobs will ask for a degree but there are now lots of companies who offer apprenticeships that will provide on-the-job training

Cyber Security Analyst

Any computer system, whether online or not connected, is vulnerable to cyber attack. Every computer system is important to the owner but some systems are critical to the survival of others, for example water treatment plant or nuclear power station control systems.

Cyber Security Analysts look at computer systems and remove any possible vulnerabilities. They also protect against pro-active attacks.

Skills needed:

• In-depth knowledge of operating systems and networks
• A good working knowledge of computer programming
• Be able to think creatively and have resilience to keep on going
• Be able to communicate with others

Qualifications needed:

• Most jobs will ask for a degree but there are now lots of companies and Government departments that offer apprenticeships that will provide on-the-job training