The technology consulting sector offers students and graduates a range of career paths and opportunities for different skill sets. From planners to software development; we’ve narrowed down the most common technology consulting roles, outlining what they are and how you can get into them.
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Bespoke software developer
Bespoke software development is focused entirely on the needs of individual customers or clients. Bespoke software isn’t an off-the-shelf product and isn't made for the wider audience to purchase. Bespoke software development has many advantages for the clients, from unique software created just for them, control over every part of the process and complete ownership of your business’s developed solution which means you can update it whenever you want.
On the day-to-day you could be writing computer software from scratch, designing or testing software or you could be working on mobile software to suit your customer’s needs. If you’re pursuing an IT-related degree, Higher National Diploma or foundation degree, you can break into bespoke software development. Employers look for a range of subjects including mathematics, business information systems and computer science.
Technology consultant
Technology or IT consultants work one-to-one with clients to advise or help them meet their business goals with effective IT systems. Day-to-day you could be designing new systems, presenting solutions in written or oral reports, helping clients manage security threats or offering user feedback. Entering technology or IT consulting is easier with a Bachelor’s degree in disciplines like mathematics, engineering or science-related subjects. It’s also beneficial to show your dedication to the subject through work experience or internships gained as a student.
Learn what it’s like working in Tech Consulting.
IT infrastructure planner
IT infrastructure plays a huge part in technology consulting, including roles like IT technicians and IT engineers. But, those roles come after IT infrastructure planners, because they’re the ones who plan or anticipate what services or adaptation your IT infrastructure will need to support your business goals and objectives. This is done by looking into the future and keeping an eye on the latest trends and technology products - which can be tricky when technology updates at lightning speed.
IT companies look for an IT or science-related Bachelor degree and three A-Levels (or equivalent) that consist of mathematics, computer science and a STEM subject. As a graduate, you may start as an IT infrastructure engineer, gaining the essential skills you need to understand how software and systems function. Moving to IT infrastructure planning, employers look for someone with interpersonal skills and the ability to understand a client's complex needs and how to solve them with technology.
Risk assessment analyst
Risk assessment analysts are usually financially-savvy people who use their analytical skills and wide business market knowledge to help clients reduce their losses or make vital decisions that could cost them their business. It’s not just technology consulting companies that hire risk assessment analysts. Banks, insurance companies and mortgage firms look for risk assessment analysts for their own business or their client’s businesses.
If you want to work in a technology consulting risk assessment analyst role you’ll need to be customer-facing. You must have excellent clear communication and analytical skills that you can apply to various customer problems. Employers will look for a Bachelor’s in finance, mathematics and economics and some may look for postgraduate qualifications like a Masters in international business. See the leading employers in technology consulting.
Security consultant
Security consultants analyse security systems and measures to ensure they're running effectively and to solve issues that occur. Firms hire security consultants to oversee their security, or at technology consultancy firms you'll be consulting clients on their security problems. Security consultants must keep up to date with the latest security and technological developments in the industry. If you’re working with clients, you’ll need a professional, calm and clear attitude because clients can come to you when they’re stressed about potential security threats or illegal activity.
Security consultant roles are perfect for those undertaking a STEM degree, or a cybersecurity apprenticeship. It’s also possible to break into the sector through an entry-level job at a technology company and working your way up to this role as you gain experience. Employers will be interested in what you’re doing outside of university or your studies, including professional work experience or related experience that can benefit your future in the sector.
Learn more about consulting with Bright Network’s guide.
Disaster recovery planner
Firstly, a disaster recovery plan is a document that sets out how a business can recover from an unplanned incident or problem. Day-to-day responsibilities can include brainstorming new strategies to recover from potential risk in the most effective way, filing risk assessments or analysing impacts disasters could have on businesses.
To get into disaster recovery planning, it’s beneficial to have a Bachelor’s or A-Level qualification in business studies, management or economics. But, there are specific professional qualifications for disaster recovery that are widely recognised by employers. For example, the BCM Institute offers an IT disaster recovery planning certification that will help you break into entry-level roles. They have a range of other certifications to become a specialist or expert in disaster recovery planning.
Kick-start your technology consulting career today by browsing graduate jobs in technology consulting and project management.