Computers and math
Computer systems analyst
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.
Median pay
$105,850
Growth to 2035
+8%
faster than average
Openings a year
32,900
Time to qualify*
Minimal
* From a bachelor's degree in an unrelated field.
Pay
Computer systems analyst
Getting in
- Typical entry education
- Bachelor's degree
- On-the-job training
- None
- Prior experience
- None
What the work is like
Dealing with the public
Unpleasant or angry people
Time pressure
Cost of a mistake
Freedom to make decisions
Repeating the same tasks
Time sitting
Time standing
Computer systems analyst: 56% usually work over 40 hours a week
Core tasks
- 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.
- Analyze information processing or computation needs and plan and design computer systems, using techniques such as structured analysis, data modeling, and information engineering.
- Consult with management to ensure agreement on system principles.
Also called: Applications Analyst · Business Systems Analyst · Computer Analyst · Computer Systems Analyst · Computer Systems Consultant · Information Systems Analyst (ISA) · IT Analyst (Information Technology Analyst) · IT Systems Analyst (Information Technology Systems Analyst)
Outlook and AI
Computer systems analysts held 544,400 jobs in 2025. BLS projects 587,200 by 2035 (+8%, faster than average; all jobs: +3.5%).
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