Computer Specialist, Information Technology Specialist
In Canada, the federal government groups and organizes occupations based on a National Occupational Classification (NOC) system. This alis occupation may not reflect the entire NOC group it is part of. Data for the NOC group can apply across multiple occupations.
The NOC system is updated every 5 years to reflect changes in the labour market. Government forms and labour market data may group and refer to an occupation differently, depending on the system used. Here is how this occupation has been classified over time:
| Starting | $25.70 |
|---|---|
| Overall | $33.18 |
| Top | $41.86 |
Interest in copying information to execute and document results of software application tests and information and telecommunication systems tests
Interest in operating computers to conduct tests to certify that new and modified systems meet standards; and to install software and hardware and configure operating system software in preparation for testing
Interest in developing and implementing software and information system testing policies and procedures; and in developing and documenting software testing plans
The interest code helps you figure out if you’d like to work in a particular occupation.
It’s based on the Canadian Work Preference Inventory (CWPI), which measures 5 occupational interests: Directive, Innovative, Methodical, Objective and Social.
Each set of 3 interest codes is listed in order of importance.
A code in capital letters means it’s a strong fit for the occupation.
A code in all lowercase letters means the fit is weaker.
When companies develop and introduce software apps, information systems, and telecommunication systems, they use system testers to look for bugs (errors or faults). When a bug is found, the app is reprogrammed to fix the bug. Systems testers then retest to make sure the new programming works and has not introduced new bugs.
They do different types of testing at different stages. For instance, they may first test a system to see how it works on its own. They may then test it to see how it works in a network environment. Complex apps require several testing cycles.
Duties vary but, in general, systems testers:
They may also:
Systems testers usually work closely with other computer specialists. This includes system developers (see the Computer Programmer occupational profile) and quality assurance analysts (see the Information Systems Quality Assurance Analyst occupational profile).
Systems testers work standard office hours in an office setting. They may work evenings or weekends to meet project deadlines.
Systems testers need to possess:
They should enjoy:
Systems testers are often graduates of post-secondary programs. In general, these programs are related to computer science. Some are training programs offered by software vendors. Some employers require applicants to have certification or training in a specific type of software.
Computer technology is constantly changing. As a result, systems testers must continuously upgrade their knowledge.
In Alberta, many schools offer a wide variety of degree, diploma, and certificate programs related to computer science. These programs are offered by universities, colleges, technical institutes, and private vocational schools. For a list, see the Computer Programmer occupational profile. Prospective systems testers should talk to potential employers about required and preferred qualifications before enrolling in an education or training program.
The following schools offer programs or courses that are related to this occupation but are not required to enter the field.
For a broad list of programs and courses that may be related to this occupation try searching using keywords.
Information systems professionals investigate, analyze, design, develop or manage information systems based on computer and related technologies through the objective application of specialized knowledge and professional judgement.
Information Systems Professional is a protected title under Alberta's Professional and Occupational Associations Registration Act. This means that to call yourself an Information Systems Professional or use the I.S.P. designation, you must be a registered member of the Canadian Information Processing Society of Alberta (CIPS Alberta). You do not have to be registered if you do not call yourself an Information Systems Professional.
The Canadian Information Processing Society (CIPS) has defined the body of knowledge required for certification and recognizes the many different ways this standard may be achieved. Applicants must provide documented evidence for 1 of the following I.S.P. designation criteria routes: (1) Established Academic, (2) IT Industry Leader, (3) Established IT Professional, (4) Education Plus Experience, (5) Exam, (6) Professional Experience Only (applicants must have entered the field prior to 1976), or (7) Upgrade from Candidate Status. For official, detailed information, visit the CIPS website, CIPS Alberta website or contact CIPS Alberta.
Information systems professionals who are registered and in good standing with a regulatory organization elsewhere in Canada may be eligible for registration in Alberta if registered professionals in the 2 jurisdictions have similar responsibilities and competencies. For more information, see "What if I am already certified in another province or territory?" and the Alberta regulatory authority (below).
Canadian Information Processing Society of Alberta
PO Box 21085
Edmonton, Alberta
Canada T6R 2V4
Phone Number: 780-431-9311
Toll-free phone number: 1-844-431-9311
Fax number: 780-413-0076
E-mail: alberta@cips.ca
Website: ab.cips.ca
Systems testers work wherever software apps, information systems, and telecommunication systems are developed and implemented.
With time on the job, testers may become quality assurance analysts or supervisors.
Systems testers are part of a larger 2011 National Occupational Classification 2283: Systems testing technicians. In Alberta, 76% of people employed in this classification work in the following industries:
The employment outlook [pdf] in this occupation will be influenced by a wide variety of factors including:
Employment turnover is expected to increase as members of the baby boom generation retire over the next few years.
Salaries for systems testers vary a lot. Factors include the duties of the position and the tester’s education and experience.
| Wages* | Low (5th percentile) | High (95th percentile) | Average | Median |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting | $21.63 | $36.42 | $25.70 | $25.00 |
| Overall | $25.72 | $40.61 | $33.18 | $32.02 |
| Top | $26.44 | $52.52 | $41.86 | $41.83 |
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* All wage estimates are hourly except where otherwise indicated. Wages and salaries do not include overtime hours, tips, benefits, profit shares, bonuses (unrelated to production) and other forms of compensation.
Lower Reliability, represents a CV of between 15.01% and 33.00% and/or if fewer than 20 survey observations and/or if survey observations represent less than 33% of all estimated employment for the occupation.
| ALL INDUSTRIES | $68,089 |
|---|---|
| Professional, Scientific & Technical Services | $67,533 |
Canadian Information Processing Society (CIPS) Alberta website: www.cipsalberta.ca
Information and Communications Technology Council (ICTC) website: www.ictc-ctic.ca
For more information on career planning, education and jobs call the Alberta Supports Contact Centre toll-free at 1-877-644-9992 or 780-644-9992 in Edmonton, or visit an Alberta Supports Centre near you.
Updated Mar 31, 2018. The information contained in this profile is current as of the dates shown. Salary, employment outlook and educational program information may change without notice. It is advised that you confirm this information before making any career decisions.