How To Become A Computer Systems Architect: What It Is and Career Path

What is a computer systems architect and how to become one

Updated January 8, 2025

3 min read

Quoted expert

Alfredo Fernandez-Gonzalez

There is more than meets the eye when it comes to being a computer systems architect. For example, did you know that they make an average of $40.25 an hour? That's $83,727 a year! Between 2018 and 2028, the career is expected to grow 5% and produce 18,200 job opportunities across the U.S.

What general advice would you give to a computer systems architect?

Alfredo Fernandez-Gonzalez

Professor of Architecture, University of Nevada - Las Vegas

It is important for recent graduates to recognize that Architecture is no longer limited to the physical realm, as transformative technologies are providing interesting career opportunities in the digital realm as well. This rapidly evolving context offers many opportunities and new directions for the discipline and remaining (or becoming!) current in new developments in computing power, digital visuals, manufacturing technologies, and robotics, are ways in which a recent graduate can secure a good paying job.

ScoreComputer Systems ArchitectUS Average

Salary

6.5

Avg. Salary $83,727

Avg. Salary $59,228

Stability level

5.7

Growth rate 5%

Growth rate 0.3%

Diversity

3.8

Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 0.31%

Asian 8.76%

Black or African American 8.93%

Hispanic or Latino 12.62%

Unknown 5.09%

White 64.29%

Gender

female 14.86%

male 85.14%

Age - 42

Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 3.00%

Asian 7.00%

Black or African American 14.00%

Hispanic or Latino 19.00%

White 57.00%

Gender

female 47.00%

male 53.00%

Age - 42

Stress level

5.7

Stress level is manageable

7.1 - high

Complexity level

6.7

Complexity level is challenging

7 - challenging

Work life balance

7.1

Work life balance is good

6.4 - fair

Key steps to become a computer systems architect

Explore computer systems architect education requirements

Most common computer systems architect degrees

Bachelor's

66.7 %

Master's

17.4 %

Associate

11.6 %

Start to develop specific computer systems architect skills

Skills	Percentages
Computer System	22.04%
Linux	12.98%
Windows	10.79%
Infrastructure	10.33%
System Security	5.66%

Complete relevant computer systems architect training and internships

Accountants spend an average of 3-6 months on post-employment, on-the-job training. New computer systems architects learn the skills and techniques required for their job and employer during this time. The chart below shows how long it takes to gain competency as a computer systems architect based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real computer systems architect resumes.

Research computer systems architect duties and responsibilities

Create PowerShell scripts to automate deployment.
Create SharePoint program library repository and manage access control.
Manage QA teams in local and distribute international locations.
Develop strategic initiative for computer infrastructure & networks at 22 AMC bases.

Apply for computer systems architect jobs

Now it's time to start searching for a computer systems architect job. Consider the tips below for a successful job search:

Browse job boards for relevant postings
Consult your professional network
Reach out to companies you're interested in working for directly
Watch out for job scams