Friday, 2008-07-25

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IT Systems Electronic Technician

In the area of computer systems, IT Systems Electronic Technicians work foremost with systems and software companies, producers of hard- and software systems, but also in businesses with their own IT department. They plan, calculate, install and configure computers and computer systems of all sizes.
That includes looking after the power supply, implementing operating systems, finding faults and resolving them and training operators and users. If as an IT Systems Electronic Technicians you are employed with an IT provider, you will advise customers on possible applications of computer systems, adapt hard- and software of existing systems to customer’s wishes, implement the system at the customer’s workplace and later provide support for operators and technical problems. You are also responsible to always check that all electrical safety requirements are followed.

Who is especially suitable?

As with all of the new IT apprenticeships, there is no special schooling or prior professional training needed to be approved to train as an IT Systems Electronic Technician. It is common, however, to have completed the Mittlere Reife (GCSE’s) or A-levels. To manage the everyday tasks of an IT Systems Electronic Technician, two things are especially important: enthusiasm for technology and enjoyment in dealing with and advising customers. Interest in data processing and electronics are implied.
So even if you think that bus-frequency has to do with how often a public transport vehicle passes by your stop, all hope is not lost. But EDP knowledge is of no disadvantage. At the least, anyone interested in this profession should have a good overview of the latest computers and programs on the market.
Interest in business and problem-solving is a plus. Abilities in planning, organisation, and business acumen are as crucial as the abilities to analyse and think abstractly and systematicly.
Nicole Wagener summarises her experiences from the now finished apprenticeship with Siemens as follows: "Of course a soft spot for technology is needed. Reading computer magazines shouldn’t be a chore. Because of the tailored version of this IT training, you’ll need a broad general knowledge. And that you can only attain through your personal interests and the willingness to keep on learning new things all your life. So you can’t pass the responsibility to your school or place of training. It’s just even better when you have the chance to complete an apprenticeship in the industry you want to work in.“

What should IT Systems Electronic Technicians be able to do?

The “electronic” part of this profession is the most prevalent. IT Systems Electronic Technicians install and configure tailormade IT systems and communications networks for the client, including the machines, components and networks, such as computer networks, mobile or landline networks and alarm and security systems. They also build the system components and set up the technology and must pay special attention to ergonomic requirements.
Installing conduits and power supply and electric security measures is also part of your job. Additionally, you will perform routine maintenance on the machines, instruct users how to use the system and bill for service. Nicole Wagner, IT Systems Electronic Technician with Siemens in the client server systems department, reports on a typical day: "I was mainly working in network administration support where I had a new assignment pretty much every day - for example, the installation of new computers in the network. In that case, I would prepare the processors, install them on location, start them up, upload the necessary software and give the users a short introduction. Quite often I was busy with detecting faults and eliminating them. I was also helping on the hotline. The nice thing on the day shift is that you get to work with so many people."
That just confirms that a willingness to communicate and flexibility in working with constantly changing problems is very important for IT Systems Electronic Technicians. It’s ideal when the ability to think logically is complemented with the skill to tune into the problems, demands and special needs of the users and clients. Being a team player and showing ownership are also part of that. Meticulous work and communicative proficiency are the prerequisites for customer satisfaction and loyalty. You must always keep learning or you will not survive in the IT line of business, Nicole Wagner confirms: "advancement courses are constantly offered by Siemens. The technical possibilities change all the time. You have to stay on top of it."

Where do IT Systems Electronic Technicians find jobs?

The demand for IT workers is high in the economy. IT Systems Electronic Technicians, like the other professions in the IT core group (installation, support and service), find work with systems and software houses, producers of hardware and software systems, service providers, operators of communication networks, mobile networks and telecommunication companies, as well as with those offering alarm and security systems. With continued education, additional avenues open up such as electronics service, technical service provider, software technology, technical IT (assistants), applied business IT, electronics testing, electronics manufacturing, technical assistance, documentation, publication, procurement, purchasing, distribution, trade and education.


Requirements: Mittlere Reife/GCSE’s (FOS, Abitur/A-levels preferable)
Training duration: 3 years
Vocational school location: Bayreuth
Training structure: Block (alternating blocks of study and work)


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