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Computer Systems Analyst

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Life As a Computer Systems Analyst

Occupation Description Analyze science, engineering, business, and other data processing problems to implement and improve computer systems. Analyze user requirements, procedures, and problems to automate or improve existing systems and review computer system capabilities, workflow, and scheduling limitations. May analyze or recommend commercially available software.

Daily Life Of a Computer Systems Analyst

  • Specify inputs accessed by the system and plan the distribution and use of the results.
  • Read manuals, periodicals, and technical reports to learn how to develop programs that meet staff and user requirements.
  • Recommend new equipment or software packages.
  • Assess the usefulness of pre-developed application packages and adapt them to a user environment.
  • Expand or modify system to serve new purposes or improve work flow.
  • Train staff and users to work with computer systems and programs.

Skills Needed to be a Computer Systems Analyst

Below is a list of the skills most Computer Systems Analysts say are important on the job.

Critical Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.

Active Listening: Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.

Reading Comprehension: Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.

Speaking: Talking to others to convey information effectively.

Systems Analysis: Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes.

Active Learning: Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.

Other Computer Systems Analyst Job Titles

  • Chief Technology Officer (CTO)
  • Public Health Informatician
  • Internet E-Commerce Specialist
  • IT Business Analyst (Information Technology Business Analyst)
  • Business Analyst

Computer Systems Analyst Job Outlook

In the United States, there were 600,500 jobs for Computer Systems Analyst in 2016. New jobs are being produced at a rate of 9.1% which is above the national average. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts 54,400 new jobs for Computer Systems Analyst by 2026. Due to new job openings and attrition, there will be an average of 44,900 job openings in this field each year.

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The states with the most job growth for Computer Systems Analyst are Utah, Colorado, and Washington. Watch out if you plan on working in Ohio, Maine, or Mississippi. These states have the worst job growth for this type of profession.

Average Computer Systems Analysts Salary

Computer Systems Analysts make between $54,360 and $142,220 a year.

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Computer Systems Analysts who work in District of Columbia, New Jersey, or California, make the highest salaries.

How much do Computer Systems Analysts make in different U.S. states?

State Annual Mean Salary
Alabama $84,950
Alaska $70,390
Arizona $88,970
Arkansas $71,990
California $103,930
Colorado $96,030
Connecticut $94,530
Delaware $96,460
District of Columbia $106,790
Florida $85,050
Georgia $91,060
Hawaii $80,100
Idaho $78,550
Illinois $89,370
Indiana $79,750
Iowa $84,300
Kansas $78,520
Kentucky $71,500
Louisiana $72,560
Maine $81,670
Maryland $97,720
Massachusetts $94,510
Michigan $83,900
Minnesota $92,920
Mississippi $66,790
Missouri $83,720
Montana $76,380
Nebraska $77,240
Nevada $80,580
New Hampshire $93,620
New Jersey $107,540
New Mexico $84,660
New York $106,320
North Carolina $93,480
North Dakota $76,110
Ohio $89,420
Oklahoma $79,950
Oregon $89,440
Pennsylvania $95,990
Rhode Island $99,470
South Carolina $80,200
South Dakota $75,810
Tennessee $77,330
Texas $97,900
Utah $84,840
Vermont $80,190
Virginia $102,290
Washington $96,860
West Virginia $74,010
Wisconsin $82,480
Wyoming $77,200

Tools & Technologies Used by Computer Systems Analysts

Below is a list of the types of tools and technologies that Computer Systems Analysts may use on a daily basis:

  • Microsoft Excel
  • Microsoft Word
  • Microsoft Office
  • Hypertext markup language HTML
  • JavaScript
  • Microsoft PowerPoint
  • Git
  • Microsoft Outlook
  • Python
  • jQuery
  • React
  • Microsoft Access
  • Node.js
  • MySQL
  • Data entry software
  • MongoDB
  • SAP
  • Microsoft Windows
  • Microsoft Project
  • Adobe Systems Adobe Acrobat

Becoming a Computer Systems Analyst

Individuals working as a Computer Systems Analyst have obtained the following education levels:

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How Long Does it Take to Become a Computer Systems Analyst?

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Who Employs Computer Systems Analysts?

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Below are examples of industries where Computer Systems Analysts work:

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Similar Careers

Those thinking about becoming a Computer Systems Analyst might also be interested in the following careers:

References:

Image Credit: U.S. Army graphic via Public domain

More about our data sources and methodologies.

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