Company: Open Business Systems, a Wood Dale-based Internet technologies solutions company
Age: 25
Salary range for this company: $50,000 to $80,000
Time on this job: 6 months
Previous jobs: I was an application developer at Revere Group.
Education: B.S. in industrial management from Purdue University
How I got this job: Through a job-search firm.
Why I took this job: I felt that the company was a good business with competent people.
Main responsibilities: I define businesses’ computer systems and build Java into them. Java is the programming language that works on the Internet and runs on any computer. It’s easier to roll out Java than other programming language because you don’t have to install the code into every single computer–you build Java in at one point, then users anywhere can access the information through the Web platform. Java automates business functions; for example, if a company has a catalog on the Web but needs to make changes to it, changes are made through Java. As a result, users can access the catalog on the Web and download the current copy from their PC instead of a company sending every employee and customer a computer disk to upgrade the catalog. My job is to analyze how a business’ system will work, then design, implement and install the Java-based system.
Best thing about the job: The challenge of putting a business application on the Internet, then seeing the benefits.
Worst thing about the job: People who are scared of a technology that can save them money and make their jobs easier.
My ideal next job: Currently, I manage and implement systems, so my next step is to go to clients and identify new ways they can use Web technologies to solve their business problems.
Advice to job seekers in this field: Don’t worry about your job position or how much money you’re making; worry about gaining experience and learning. Listen to customers’ business problems and ask questions.
