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IT consultant : Salary and conditions

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  1. Job description
  2. Salary and conditions
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  4. Training
  5. Career development
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Case studies

  • Range of typical starting salaries: £20,000-£32,000 (salary data collected Feb 2010).
  • Range of typical salaries at senior level/with experience (e.g., after 10-15 years in the role): £50,000-£80,000 (salary data collected Feb 2010). Experienced consultants' salaries depend on the demand for their specific expertise and may be linked to distinct changes in role.
  • Salary is dependent on location, size and type of employer and is usually performance-related.
  • Although the hours worked are generally described as nine to five, the nature of the industry means that extra hours are often required to meet deadlines. Also, IT consultants spend lots of time travelling to clients' sites, mirroring clients' working hours.
  • The job is mostly office-based, working as a member of a project team. IT consultants are often based on clients' premises.
  • Part-time work is unlikely, but career breaks are possible as work is project-based. Self-employed work is possible, managing your own workload and hours. Many IT professionals are independent contractors, but it is best to gain some experience and contacts in the industry by working for an employer before going down this route.
  • There are more men than women working in the industry. However, opportunities for women to enter employment in the IT sector have never been greater. Many IT consultancies encourage women to apply for their vacancies to enhance diversity in the workplace. Various groups exist to support women in IT and technology, such as BCS Women and Equalitec .
  • Jobs are available in many large towns and cities in the UK, with client sites located throughout the country, but most employers are based in London and the South East.
  • The dress code is formal for visiting clients and meetings, but is otherwise relaxed.
  • The work may be stressful and fast-paced, particularly when clients' deadlines need to be met.
  • Travel within the working day to clients’ sites is often needed and overnight absence from home, staying in a hotel, is frequently required, which may be disruptive to your personal life. Overseas travel is occasionally necessary.
 
AGCAS
Written by Marie Miller, De Montfort University
Date: 
February 2010
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