The IT Glossary: IT Jobs and Careers

There are a lot of IT jobs and careers. Understanding even just a little bit of each one can feel like a huge task. If you don't speak "tech," it can be overwhelming. We wrote this glossary of IT careers to help make sense of the basic jobs. Are you thinking about a career in IT? Do you supervise or manage IT team members? Are you a hiring manager who needs to understand the lingo? Read on!

There are 10 distinct IT paths, each containing diverse, specialized, and essential roles for keeping our digital world running. These roles range from hands-on technical generalists to specialized strategic planners. Read on to learn the basic definition of each IT job, why they're important for a company, and how a person can become one.

Network Administrator

What they do: Network administrators make sure employees can get online and onto the network. Network admins keep everyone communicating with each other, enable the sharing and accessing of files, ensure network applications work reliably, and keep the whole network secure. They do this by setting up and maintaining the equipment, software, and configurations that allow devices to connect and share resources.

Why they're important: Network administrators are the backbone of modern connectivity. Without functional and secure networks, companies can’t share information, access critical tools, or communicate effectively. Network security is a career field all its own, but network administrators help with good "hygiene" by laying a strong security foundation.

Skills/tools required: Network administrator training includes a foundation of how different devices and systems connect and communicate. This includes familiarity with local and wide area networks (LANs and WANs), the hardware that makes networks possible (like routers and switches), and the protocols that govern data exchange. Certifications like CompTIA Network+ or Cisco’s CCNA are common.

Skill Level/Career Trajectory: Network administrator can serve as an entry-level role for those with strong foundational knowledge, but more often, it’s a step up after gaining a few years of experience in IT support or general administration. With experience, network administrators can move on to advanced roles like network engineer or systems architect, which involve more complex design and strategic responsibilities.

Network Engineer

What they do: Network engineers design and build the systems that connect devices and allow network communication. If network administrators manage and maintain, network engineers build and optimize. A network engineer's focus is on performance, scaling systems, and implementing new technologies that can meet organizational needs.

Why it’s important: As businesses grow, their networking needs become more complex. Network engineers ensure that the new systems implemented and incorporated are efficient, secure, and built to handle future demands.

Skills/tools required: Network engineer training always includes advanced knowledge of how networks function and the hardware and protocols involved. It is crucial to be familiar with concepts like network architecture and tools like routers and switches. Certifications such as Cisco’s CCNP Enterprise or Juniper’s JNCIA can provide an edge.

Skill Level/Career Trajectory: Network engineers are typically mid-level to senior roles, often requiring prior experience as network administrators or in similar positions. With advanced certifications and experience, network engineers can progress to roles like network architect or IT director, where they design large-scale systems and strategies.

Systems Administrator

What they do: Systems administrators (aka "sys admins" and "sysads") manage and maintain the devices that a company and its users depend on. These can include servers, applications, desktop computers, mobile devices, and all the other elements of keeping a business’s IT infrastructure running smoothly. They ensure that users can access the technology and tools they need, systems are backed up, and everything is up to date.

Why it’s important: When servers or systems go down, so does business productivity. Systems administrators make sure everything (yes, everything!) runs efficiently and troubleshoots any issues that arise.

Skills/tools required: Systems administration training covers a wide range of skills. Sysadmins need expertise in server operating systems like Windows Server or Linux, as well as familiarity with virtualization technologies and basic scripting. Certifications such as CompTIA Server+ or Microsoft Azure certifications are helpful.

Skill Level/Career Trajectory: Systems administration can be a starting point for IT professionals with strong foundational knowledge. Over time, sysadmins can advance to roles like systems engineer, cloud administrator, or IT manager, where they handle more strategic and technical challenges.

Systems Engineer

What they do: Systems engineers design and integrate the hardware and software that businesses rely on. They focus on combining complex technologies to create systems that meet specific and specialized needs.

Why it’s important: Systems engineers help businesses create IT environments that work seamlessly, creating systems that function well together. They also ensure that those systems are scalable, meaning companies can adapt and grow without disruptions.

Skills/tools required: Systems engineer training starts with strong problem-solving skills, expertise in system architecture, and experience with virtualization (e.g., VMware) and cloud platforms. Certifications like AWS Certified Solutions Architect or training in Microsoft Azure solutions are common.

Skill Level/Career Trajectory: Systems engineering is generally a mid-level to advanced role that builds on experience in systems administration or similar fields. With further expertise, systems engineers can progress to positions like solutions architect, IT manager, or technology consultant.

DevOps Engineer

What they do: DevOps engineers work to improve the process of developing, deploying, and maintaining software. Their main focus is bridging the gap between software developers and IT operations by automating processes and making sure that systems work collaboratively.

Why it’s important: By improving collaboration and efficiency, DevOps engineers help organizations deploy software faster and with fewer errors. Their role ensures smoother handoffs between development and operations teams, reducing downtime and increasing reliability.

Skills/tools required: DevOps training covers many different topics and skills. Familiarity with automation tools like Jenkins or Ansible, scripting languages, and containerization technologies like Docker or Kubernetes. Certifications in DevOps practices like Azure DevOps Engineer are valuable.

Skill Level/Career Trajectory: DevOps engineering is often a mid-level role that requires prior experience in software development, systems administration, or IT operations. Successful DevOps engineers can grow into roles like DevOps architect, cloud engineer, or IT director.

Cloud Administrator

What they do: Cloud administrators manage cloud-based resources like virtual servers, storage systems, and databases hosted in the cloud. This can be complicated because companies often have some of their resources in the cloud, and some on physical hardware located on-premises.

Why it’s important: As more businesses move to the cloud for cost efficiency and scalability, cloud administrators ensure that these systems are reliable and secure. They also help minimize downtime and ensure that data is accessible to users whenever they need it.

Skills/tools required: Cloud administrator training starts by focusing on the platform their company uses—usually Amazon AWS, Microsoft Azure, or Google Cloud Platform. Eventually, cloud administrators broaden and deepen their familiarity with configuring and managing many different cloud resources. Certifications like AWS Certified SysOps Administrator or Microsoft Azure Administrator are often required.

Skill Level/Career Trajectory: Cloud administration can be an entry point into cloud-focused IT roles, especially for those with relevant certifications. With experience, cloud administrators can advance to positions like cloud engineer, cloud architect, or IT operations manager.

Solutions Architect

What they do: Solutions architects design IT systems that are specific to the unique problems of their business. They evaluate the needs of an organization, recommend appropriate technologies, and create integrations that help existing systems work together with each other and new systems.

Why it’s important: Solutions architects help make sure that businesses are investing in the right technologies and developing strategies that maximize value and efficiency. Solutions architects align IT solutions with business goals, and help companies stay competitive and responsive.

Skills/tools required: Solutions architects need a broad understanding of IT infrastructure, cloud platforms, and design principles. Certifications like AWS Certified Solutions Architect and Microsoft Azure Infrastructure Solutions prove mastery of each platform's many opportunities.

Skill Level/Career Trajectory: Solutions architects are typically advanced and senior-level roles that require extensive experience in IT and system design. With additional expertise, they can move into positions like enterprise architect, IT director, or CTO.

Security Administrator

What they do: Security administrators protect IT systems, prevent cyber threats, monitor for potential breaches, and ensure compliance with security regulations. They work to identify vulnerabilities and take proactive steps to address them.

Why it’s important: Cyberattacks are a constant threat in today's world. Security administrators safeguard sensitive data, protect a company's reputation, and help prevent costly breaches that could disrupt operations.

Skills/tools required: Cybersecurity training is a wide-ranging subject that includes practicing with security tools, knowledge of industry standards and best practices, and experience using specialized hardware and software. Cybersecurity certifications like CompTIA Security+ or CISSP are highly respected in the field.

Skill Level/Career Trajectory: Security administrators typically gain experience in IT support or general system administration before advancing to cybersecurity. With further specialization and certifications, they can advance to roles such as cybersecurity engineer, penetration tester, or chief information security officer (CISO).

Database Administrator

What they do: Database administrators (DBAs) manage and maintain databases to ensure they are secure, organized, and accessible. They oversee data storage systems, optimize performance, and back up critical information to prevent data loss.

Why it’s important: Databases and the data they hold are at the heart of modern businesses, storing everything from customer records to financial data. DBAs ensure this data is available, protected, and correctly structured for analysis and decision-making.

Skills/tools required: DBAs need expertise in database management systems like MySQL, Oracle, or SQL Server. Knowledge of query optimization, database security, and troubleshooting tools is essential. A certification like Oracle SQL Certified Associate can help prove mastery of skills necessary for the job.

Skill Level/Career Trajectory: Database administration can be a mid-level role for those with database experience or a specialization after years in IT support. Advanced DBAs can move into roles like database architect, data engineer, or IT manager, where they design large-scale data solutions and strategies.

Programmer / Developer

What they do: Programmers write, test, and debug the software ("code") that makes applications work. They create everything from simple scripts that give single instructions to highly complex systems, translating ideas into functional tools that users rely on every day.

Why it’s important: Software makes modern technology possible, and programmers make software possible. Developers and programmers don't just create new software; they can also update, modernize, and improve existing software. They build the tools and applications that enable businesses to operate, entertain, and innovate.

Skills/tools required: Coding and development training is usually focused on individual languages like Python, JavaScript, or Angular. Experience with development frameworks and tools and version control systems like GitHub is also essential. Compared to the other IT career paths, programming and development require far fewer certifications. Some industries prefer portfolios of projects and demonstrated competency over certifications.

Skill Level/Career Trajectory: Programming can be an entry-level role for individuals with coding experience or education. As they gain experience, programmers can advance to roles like software engineer, technical lead, or development manager, overseeing complex projects and teams.

Project Manager

What they do: IT project managers plan, execute, and oversee projects from start to finish. They coordinate teams, manage resources, and ensure that projects stay on schedule and within budget.

Why it’s important: IT projects often involve many moving parts, from technical teams to external stakeholders. Project managers keep everyone aligned, minimizing risks and keeping everything organized, as well as aligned with business goals.

Skills/tools required: Project management training typically focuses on soft skills like communication, leadership, and organizational skills. It's helpful to learn about the many project management tools, such as Jira, Trello, or Microsoft Project. Some project management certifications, like PMI's CAPM, have a deeply specialized framework and vocabulary, while others, like CompTIA's Project+, are vendor-agnostic.

Skill Level/Career Trajectory: Project management is typically a mid-level role that requires some experience in IT or related fields. With proven success, project managers can advance to senior roles like program manager, portfolio manager, or chief operating officer (COO).

Data Analyst

What they do: Data analysts collect, process, and interpret data to uncover trends and provide actionable insights. They create visualizations, reports, and models that help organizations make informed decisions.

Why it’s important: In a data-driven world, businesses rely on analysts to extract meaning from raw data. By identifying trends and patterns, data analysts help organizations improve efficiency, identify opportunities, and solve problems.

Skills/tools required: Data analysis training covers the skills, knowledge, and tools of the trade. Data analysts are usually expected to know how to use SQL or Python. Some certifications focus on the ability to use a specific tool, like the Microsoft Power BI Data Analyst. In contrast, others emphasize general skills and knowledge, such as the Data+ from CompTIA.

Skill Level/Career Trajectory: Data analysts often start in entry-level roles but can advance to positions like data scientist, business analyst, or analytics manager with additional training and experience.

This glossary is only the beginning of jobs, skills, and knowledge in IT. Technology doesn't stop evolving, and this glossary can barely cover the basics. Read our Glossary of IT Concepts for more information about the terms and ideas mentioned here.

The fact that you're reading this article is possible thanks to at least one person who works in one of the jobs we talked about above. In fact, most of your daily life depends, at least in part, on the work done by IT professionals. 

If you want to be a part of that world, there are careers and opportunities waiting for you. CBT Nuggets offers entry-level IT courses that explain the essentials of each field, and you can just skip past anything you already know.