Computer Analyst Job Description, Skills, and Salary
Get to know about the duties, responsibilities, qualifications, and skills requirements of a computer analyst. Feel free to use our computer analyst job description template to produce your own. We also provide you with information about the salary you can earn as a computer analyst.
Who is a Computer Analyst?
Computer analysts, often known as systems analysts, are responsible for the design and development of computer systems. Installing new systems or upgrading old systems to meet changing corporate needs is part of their job. They also automate processes that are now completed by hand or in a less effective manner. Computer analysts plan and implement computer system improvements, prepare and publish technical reports and specifications, install hardware and software, train end-users, and guarantee that businesses make the best use of technology.
An information technology (IT) practitioner that specializes in assessing, planning, and implementing information systems is known as a computer analyst. In order to attain these results, computer systems analysts examine the viability of information systems in terms of their intended outcomes and collaborate with end-users, software providers, and programmers. A computer systems analyst is a person who employs analysis and design methodologies to leverage information technology to address business challenges. They could act as change agents, identifying the necessary organizational improvements, designing mechanisms to achieve those changes, and training and motivating people to use the systems. The following are some of the several sorts of computer analyst jobs:
- Computer systems analyst
- Forensics computer analyst
- Computer specialist.
Other extremely precise analyst job names and descriptions may exist within each of these three computer roles. Computer analysts can operate as freelancers or as employees in larger companies’ information technology (IT) departments. Some computer analysts work for software or hardware companies, offering support services to companies that use certain computer tools, equipment, or products.
Computer System Analyst: Computer systems analysts are frequently called upon to assist in the selection of certain software products that will help a company run more smoothly. Analysts not only assist in the purchase of such equipment, but they also assist in training staff on how to use new programs and customizing old programs to speed up and simplify specific procedures. Computer analysts are frequently called upon to collaborate with other IT professionals as well as executives and decision-makers within a business or organization.
Forensics Computer Analyst: Another highly specialized computer job is that of a forensics analyst. These analysts usually collaborate with law enforcement officers and private investigators to figure out when computer systems have been hacked and stored data has been stolen or misused. A forensics computer analyst’s other responsibilities may include recovering missing data, and passwords, and interpreting encrypted data on behalf of law enforcement agencies. These extremely skilled computer analysts may act as solo investigators or for a larger cyber-security firm.
Computer Specialist: Support experts, sometimes known as computer specialists, carry out much of the same activities as computer analysts, although they deal with the general public more frequently. These experts frequently provide remote computer users with problem assistance by phone, email, or instant messaging systems. User manuals and other technical literature are also written by computer specialists to assist end-users in learning how to improve the operation of a computer or a specific computer program.
Computer analysts must be exceptionally knowledgeable in a variety of computer applications and tasks, regardless of the role they hold. Because most analysts must collaborate with other professionals as well as the general public, they must be able to communicate effectively and work well with people of varying computing skill levels. While most computer analysts specialize in a certain area of the IT business, many are also capable of working in other computer-related fields.
Computer Analyst Job Description
Below are the computer analyst job description examples you can use to develop your resume or write a computer analyst job description for your employee. Employers can also use it to sieve out job seekers when choosing candidates for interviews.
The duties and responsibilities of a computer analyst include the following:
- Collaborate with other departments to determine how IT systems can help the organization.
- Analyze and audit existing systems to find places where they might be improved.
- Mastermind and create mechanisms that will aid in the achievement of organizational objectives.
- Build and install IT systems for the firm with the help of team members.
- Identify existing systems’ faults and inefficiencies and develop patches and remedies.
- Maintain the software and hardware that makeup existing systems on a regular basis.
- Check the work order ticketing system on a regular basis and finishes jobs in the order of importance.
- Make sure that all of your systems and programs are well-documented.
- Investigate new technologies to see if implementing them could improve an organization’s performance and efficiency.
- Prepare a cost-benefit analysis to assist management.
- Analyze if IT systems and enhancements to existing computing infrastructure are cost-effective.
- Create creative techniques to add new functionality to existing computer systems.
- Select and configure software and hardware to design and implement new systems.
- Oversee the installation and configuration of new systems, ensuring that they are tailored to the needs of the firm.
- Conduct testing to ensure that the systems are functioning properly.
- Train end-users and write instructional manuals.
Qualifications
- 2+ years of experience as a systems analyst.
- To understand an organization’s needs and how to meet them with IT solutions, superior critical thinking skills are required.
- Must be able to operate independently with little supervision.
- Should have a collaborative approach and be able to work well in a group.
- For expressing intricate technical procedures in layman’s terms, excellent communication skills are required.
- In order to forecast the time required to finish projects, excellent time management skills are required.
- A willingness to innovate and the ability to think creatively.
- Demonstrate proficiency in a variety of programming languages, including SQL, C++, Java, XML, and others.
- Willing and able to work odd hours if necessary.
Essential Skills
Problem-solving and critical thinking: Problem-solving and critical thinking are required skills for identifying problems and evaluating potential solutions to determine which is the best. The goal of systems analysis is to solve issues. You must determine where inefficiencies exist inside a company and how technology might aid in the reduction of such inefficiencies. You should be able to deconstruct challenges into smaller components and assess the best possible solution.
Communication: Working with the IT department and management requires communication skills in order to convey difficult issues in a way that everyone understands. Analysts with excellent listening skills can better comprehend the needs of their clients or coworkers. It is easier to deliver information successfully when you have strong verbal communication abilities.
Reading comprehension: Computer systems analysts must read manuals and technical reports to stay up to date on new technology and deploy it to fulfill the needs of their employers or clients.
Writing: Expect to write written reports of your recommendations.
Analytical.Skills: Analytical abilities are required for understanding complicated data from several sources, determining the best course of action for a project, and anticipating how changes may affect projects. It is vital to be able to examine enormous amounts of data rapidly and efficiently.
Creativity: Creativity is required to create novel solutions to computer problems when they arise. Computer systems analysts must be able to come up with new ideas on a regular basis. As a computer systems analyst, you’ll have to think outside the box to solve complex challenges. You can be given a budget for a new system upgrade, and you’ll need to figure out which technologies you can afford within that budget. You’ll also need to be inventive when deciding how new technology will be adopted across a company.
Teamwork: You’ll almost certainly be part of a team at some point. If you work for a large firm, you may collaborate with other systems analysts, or you may just work with employees from different departments to ensure they understand how to make the greatest use of current technology. In any case, you should be able to collaborate successfully and efficiently with others.
Systems Architecture: You should be familiar with system architecture and how systems interact with one another. You should be able to navigate Linux and install, update, and manage programs on the operating system. Depending on the type of employment you apply for, you may also need to understand Windows system architecture.
Networking: Maintaining an organization’s network will be an important part of your employment. As a result, you should have a clear grasp on how systems can be networked together, as well as what hardware and software promote system communication.
Systems Analysis: You should be able to assess a current system’s efficiency and create a report on whether it can be improved. You should also be able to perform a cost-benefit analysis based on the advantages of new technologies versus whether they will add material long-term value to a firm.
Hardware Configuration: This is also referred to as Gear Setup. You should be able to install new hardware, such as servers, networking equipment, and computers. Indeed, once you’ve identified technologies that an organization could benefit from, you’ll need to set them up and make sure they’re ready for usage.
Training: You should be able to teach others who do not have technical experience how to use specific technologies. If your company upgrades to a new version of Windows, for example, make sure everyone understands how it works and how to use the system. You can be asked to produce instruction manuals, conduct hands-on training sessions, or assist in other ways with training.
How to Become a Computer Analyst
Step 1. Earn a bachelor’s degree
A bachelor’s degree in a computer-related profession or business is the most typical first step toward becoming a computer systems analyst. You may choose to focus on technology-related coursework depending on your career ambitions. Employers may, however, search for employees with business or liberal arts degrees who have also developed technical skills. If you’re interested in a specific subject, such as health care, taking related undergraduate courses can help you advance your understanding.
Step 2. Advance your skills
A computer systems analyst may need to maintain their skills and education up to date in order to stay up with advances in the profession. Analysts can take classes to learn about new technology advances at any time during their careers. Your interests and career goals will determine how you enhance your analyst skills. Some analysts seek to advance in their careers by learning more about the organization and the industry in which it operates, as well as managerial and leadership abilities. The technical side may be more interesting to some experts. They’d then focus on honing their technical skills and learning how new software and hardware can help their business. Some may go deeper into software development, designing specialized tools for their company. Enrolling in cybersecurity bootcamps, coding bootcamps, cybersecurity online courses, or other online IT courses may assist you in your preparation for a career as a computer systems analyst. Bootcamps and courses focus on the most up-to-date technology and tools, equipping computer systems analysts with practical skills.
Consider a Bootcamp: A bootcamp is a concentrated learning experience that focuses on a certain component of the subject for a short period of time. The goal is to provide you with the knowledge and abilities you need to develop your profession. Cybersecurity or coding bootcamp can help you prepare for opportunities in computer system analysis. Because a bootcamp is an accelerated learning environment, it’s a good idea to brush up on the fundamentals or enroll in any pre-bootcamp classes. Hands-on projects using the most up-to-date software are used to teach the material. Group projects may be included in the curriculum, reflecting the fact that computer systems analysts frequently work in groups. Part-time and full-time bootcamps are both available. An online bootcamp allows you to learn while working around your schedule.
Step 3. Get your first job as a computer systems analyst
Graduates can use their first employment to put everything they’ve learned in school into practice. The popular tactics for finding your first job as a computer systems analyst include creating an appealing résumé, strengthening interview skills, and networking. A computer systems analyst occupation, like many others, may require both education and on-the-job experience. Entry-level employment can help a fresh graduate of a computer science or information systems program learn about the industry, polish technical abilities, and obtain leadership experience. To position yourself for promotion, it’s critical to take advantage of these learning opportunities in your first employment. Certifications may be useful in demonstrating your knowledge to potential employers, depending on your field of expertise. Adding qualifications and higher degrees can help you earn more money as a computer systems analyst. According to the Global Knowledge 2020 IT Abilities and Salary Report, IT professionals who improved their skills or earned a certification received an average rise of $12,000 to $13,000. Computer systems analysts that are proactive in upgrading their skills and expertise are valued by employers.
Step 4. Earn a Master’s Degree
Additional schooling may aid in the acquisition of specialized skills and the advancement of your profession. Online degrees are available at both the bachelor’s and master’s degree levels. These courses allow you to choose your own schedule and location. There are online master’s in cybersecurity and online master’s in computer science degrees, as well as online master’s in information systems if you wish to pursue a master’s degree in a more advanced discipline. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), a master’s degree in computer science can help you become a computer systems analyst with in-demand skills. A computer systems analyst with an advanced degree who exhibits their passion for their field may be highly valued by some firms. There are a variety of courses available to suit your job objectives, budget, and schedule. A master’s degree in computer science can be completed entirely online and cover a wide range of topics. You might learn about software development and computer architecture on the technical side. You can focus in business or cybersecurity, learning about the tradeoffs between security and operations, depending on the degree you pick. Required and elective courses are often included in an online master’s degree in computer science. Electives can help you focus your master’s degree to meet your job ambitions. A Master of Science in Software Development or a Master of Business Administration in Information Technology are two more similar advanced degrees. Compare program lengths, full-time vs. part-time alternatives, and online vs. on-campus formats while evaluating programs that fit your lifestyle.
Where to Work as Computer Analyst
Computer analysts work for companies that deal with computers and data processing. They can also work for government agencies, manufacturing firms, insurance firms, financial firms, nonprofit organizations, for-profit firms, and colleges. Computer analysts can operate as independent contractors or as employees in larger companies’ information technology (IT) departments. Most of them also work in software and hardware companies.
Computer Analyst Salary Scale
As of, the average Computer Systems Analyst pay in the United States was $63,033, with a salary range of $56,357 to $70,547. Salary ranges rely on a variety of things, including schooling, certifications, supplementary talents, and the number of years you’ve worked in your field. In Nigeria, the average net compensation for a Computer Analyst is $65,000.