IT Consultant: Job Description

  
IT Consultant – Job Description

Learn more about becoming an IT Consultant in the UK.

Main Duties

An IT Consultant will work with clients to help them to install and use their information technology in the best way to meet their business needs. They may have to replace the systems that are in place, in order to improve things or just make changes to what is there.

They may be brought it to guide decisions with regards to the installation of new IT equipment. They may then be expected to support that environment, setting it up and making sure that it runs efficiently, providing user support where necessary.

Consultants may be independent contractors or they may work for a company that outsources their staff to customer sites. This means that they will be working closely with customers and will therefore need good communication skills, polite and friendly approach and a smart appearance.
There may be some sales duties, encouraging customers to make more use of their company’s services as well as highly technical role.

Jobs tend to be office based and in normal office hours although unpaid overtime is often expected so that deadlines are met. Formal dress will normally be necessary. Work will also have to be done to keep skills up to date, that will not be paid.

Expected Salary

Salary does vary depending on location, role and experience, but averages at £43,000.

Pros

Good salary prospects and a lot of available vacancies.
Interesting work where the job will change a lot keeping things interesting.

Cons

Lots of competition for the best jobs.
Can be stressful and hard work.
Working hours can be long and overtime is unlikely to be paid.

Qualifications Required

All graduates have a chance of entering this profession but a relevant degree is a big plus and so information systems, computer science, mathematics, engineering or similar areas will be preferred. At least a 2:1 would be needed if the degree is not in a relevant area and an interest in IT would need to be proved.

Although a Masters degree is by no means necessary it can help to improve chance of employment, especially for those with a less relevant first degree.

Work experience, such as internships or volunteer work, will help.

Required Skills
Communication skillsAbility to work as part of a teamProblem solving skillsAble to quickly learn new thingsCustomer service skillsTime management and prioritisation skillsFlexible and confident