Computer Systems Analysts
Analyze science, engineering, business, and other data processing problems to develop and implement solutions to complex applications problems, system administration issues, or network concerns. Perform systems management and integration functions, improve existing computer systems, and review computer system capabilities, workflow, and schedule limitations. May analyze or recommend commercially available software.
Computer Systems Analysts earn a median of $50.89/hr — about $106,000 a year. The lowest-paid 10% earn $32.37/hr; the top 10% earn $80.63/hr. (Annual figures are approximate: hourly × 2,080.)
What you'd actually do
- Troubleshoot program and system malfunctions to restore normal functioning.
- Provide staff and users with assistance solving computer-related problems, such as malfunctions and program problems.
- Test, maintain, and monitor computer programs and systems, including coordinating the installation of computer programs and systems.
- Use the computer in the analysis and solution of business problems, such as development of integrated production and inventory control and cost analysis systems.
- Coordinate and link the computer systems within an organization to increase compatibility so that information can be shared.
- Use object-oriented programming languages, as well as client and server applications development processes and multimedia and Internet technology.
How you get there
Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree. Overall preparation: considerable preparation (Job Zone 4 of 5).
The feel of the work
The work is mostly indoors. (Compared against the other 818 careers in the guide.)
Working for yourself
About 2.2% of computer systems analysts are self-employed.
Who it tends to fit
This work tends to fit people who are analytical, organized and detail-focused and people-focused.
Work a simulated shift in this job — freeMake the real decisions this job involves, then see what your choices say about you.Related careers
- Database Administrators
- Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers
- Web and Digital Interface Designers
- Computer Programmers
- Network and Computer Systems Administrators
- Computer Occupations, All Other
Quick questions
- How much does a computer systems analyst make?
- The median pay is $50.89 per hour — roughly $106,000 a year, with the real range running from about $32.37/hr (10th percentile) to $80.63/hr (90th percentile). Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
- Do you need a degree to be a computer systems analyst?
- The typical entry-level education is: Bachelor's degree. Overall preparation level: considerable preparation (Job Zone 4 of 5).
- What does a computer systems analyst actually do all day?
- Troubleshoot program and system malfunctions to restore normal functioning. Provide staff and users with assistance solving computer-related problems, such as malfunctions and program problems. Test, maintain, and monitor computer programs and systems, including coordinating the installation of computer programs and systems.
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