Re: Systems Programmer

[HAVEAJOB@xxxxxxx]

In a message dated 11/20/98 5:53:41 PM Central Standard Time, jbogart@gci.com
writes:

<< Does anyone have a good job description for a Systems Programmer for
AS/400?
 
 Thanks in advance...
 
 
 Jack Bogart >>

Jack, this may well be quite redundant to most on the list, but different
companies call apples and oranges the same thing...here's my take on what I
see in the midrange arena.

APPLICATIONS PROGRAMMERS typically work on programs that support the
operational and direct administrative functions of a particular company.  For
example, accounting systems, manufacturing systems, warehouse management, etc.
SYSTEMS PROGRAMMERS will typically work on systems and programs that support
the activities of the IT department.  I.e., databases, communications,
security, etc.

In general, systems programmers tend to have more technical skills than
applications programmers and are much more apt to have hardware level
familiarity and a thorough knowledge of the applicable operating system.
Communications and networking skills are huge plusses.  Experience "steps" in
specific regards to systems knowledge (let's say, junior, standard, and senior
levels) may not reflect on total experience base but on the specialty
involved.

Since systems programmers are more apt to be specialized than applications
programmers, they generally command slightly higher salaries.  However, this
may not come into play unless the company has a fairly structured IS
department (such as a larger company, governmental agency, etc.).  For some
reason, I tend to find that most systems programmers are more likely to be
"lifers" and most started out in operations.

JMHO, 

Dave Brown
Search Professionals, Inc.
888-917-1112
haveajob@aol.com
+---
| This is the Midrange System Mailing List!
| To submit a new message, send your mail to MIDRANGE-L@midrange.com.
| To subscribe to this list send email to MIDRANGE-L-SUB@midrange.com.
| To unsubscribe from this list send email to MIDRANGE-L-UNSUB@midrange.com.
| Questions should be directed to the list owner/operator: david@midrange.com
+---