Industry/manufacturing IT: graduate area of work

Industries will always be attracted by a graduate's technical skills, but business and commercial awareness will also be important.

Technology is central to running the processes of the largest multinational engineering company and the small manufacturer. Every industry requires IT support professionals to run and maintain business systems, but within an industry organisation, such as an oil company, pharmaceutical supplier, or automotive part manufacturer, there are also specialist roles relating to the technology used to run industrial processes. IT is critical for enabling 'just in time' manufacturing processes and reduction of inventory through clever supply chain management, and it facilitates the easy management of data.

Skills needed for graduate IT jobs in industry

Roles in industry typically require graduates with strong technology skills in disciplines such as software engineering, network engineering, software development and computer science. However, industry organisations will also bring in specialists from the IT sector if such skills are required for specific projects.

IT support will require good all-round technical skills, as well as the ability to multitask and deal with pressure.

How graduates can get IT jobs with manufacturers

Industries will always be attracted by a graduate's technical skills, but business and commercial awareness will also be important. The 'bottom line' will be the focus for all technology developments and use. If you have an interest in, or experience of their industry, then that will stand you in good stead.

IT jobs for the larger industries will generally be well-advertised (take a look at the employer profiles for pharmaceutical, manufacturing and energy graduate employers here on targetjobs.co.uk), but smaller employers may require a bit more research. Applying for work experience, or filling part-time positions, will often be a good way in.

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