Cybersecurity Support Technician
Occupational Purpose and Context
Cybersecurity professionals maintain the security and integrity of information technology systems, networks, and devices. According to the National Cybersecurity Workforce Framework, cybersecurity professionals securely provision, operate, and maintain; protect and defend; investigate; collect and operate; analyze; and provide oversight and development.
Some cybersecurity support technicians and analysts are employees in small or large companies, nonprofits, and government agencies; some are outside contractors that provide services to other organizations; and others are self-employed.
Work Process Schedule (pdf)
Full Competency-Based Framework (pdf)
Database Technician (Alternate Title: Database Administrator)
Occupational Purpose and Context
The Database Technician (also commonly referred to as a “Database Administrator” or increasingly referred to as a “Cloud Administrator” where applicable) implements, supports and maintains the overall database infrastructure (including cloud-based environments, where applicable) and services for an organization. More specifically, a Database Tech/Admin manages and configures a company’s database including storage, migration, conversion, queries, protection, performance upgrades and cost efficiencies. It is important to note that because of increasing levels of data security concerns and the sensitive nature of data stored, backup, disaster recovery, and securing databases are essential components of a Database Tech/Admin’s job. Along these lines, the Database Tech/Admin oversees access to all database information and stays up to date with new releases. Equally important, the Database Tech/Admin must be very knowledgeable about privacy, confidentiality, and data protection from both conceptual and legislative perspectives.
Database Tech/Admins work closely with a variety of users to ensure internal and external data collection needs are met. Frequently, the Database Tech/Admin must move information stored in legacy databases to new ones and collaborate with Network Administrators to ensure databases are secured, properly linked and aligned with a company’s computer network. Whenever system maintenance is performed, the Database Tech/Admin troubleshoots to locate existing and potential defects. Furthermore, this person is responsible for guaranteeing that stored data comes from reliable sources.
A Database Tech/Admin is very similar to a Database Analyst. Many of their responsibilities overlap and, in fact, depending on the size of the organization, the lines may be blurred. For the most part, a Database Tech/Admin can do what an Analyst does and then some—dealing with an organization’s single or multiple databases. Of note, this framework provides skills and knowledge for an individual to be effective in entry-level administration of IT database systems, with competencies developed through core and elective choices over time.
Work Process Schedule (pdf)
Full Competency-Based Framework (pdf)
Developer (Software and Applications)
Occupational Purpose and Context
Entry level software or application developers (“developers”) perform a wide variety of job functions that apply relevant theories, methods, tools, and interpersonal skills to design, build, operate, monitor, and control a software program, application, or series of software programs or applications. Apprentices should have some existing knowledge of computer basics and pose the ability to learn and apply tools specific to an organization’s unique requirements. Developers contribute to a diverse set of products depending on the architecture and industry needs defined by each organization. Developers utilize their creativity and critical thinking abilities to solve unique problems as they arise, and to serve as a vital support to an organization’s evolving needs.
Work Process Schedule (pdf)
Full Competency-Based Framework (pdf)
IT Generalist
Occupational Purpose and Context
Information technology generalists perform various support functions, particularly if they work in a small-to-medium-size company that has a small IT department with few specialist positions. IT generalists set up technology for employees, maintain internal networks, support telework functions, and provide help desk support. Workers in this position work with IT colleagues, staff at all levels within an organization, external clients, and vendors.
IT generalists maintain functioning information technology equipment and networks, provide support to technology users, ensure security of information and IT infrastructure, and uphold company policies regarding use, security, and redundancy of data.
Work Process Schedule (pdf)
Full Competency-Based Framework (pdf)
User Experience Designer (UX)
Occupational Purpose and Context
User Experience (UX) Designers envision how people should best experience products and bring that vision to life. They work to make complex tasks and technologies more intuitive and accessible for people of all expertise levels. UX designers work on all parts of the design process, from creating user flows and wireframes to building user interface mockups and prototypes. They also collaborate with teams of other designers, researchers, engineers, and product managers throughout the design process. At each stage, UX designers anticipate what users need, advocate for them, and ensure that the final product exceeds expectations.
Work Process Schedule (pdf)
Full Competency-Based Framework (pdf)