May also be called: Information Systems Consultants; Information Technology (IT) Specialists; Programmer Analysts; Quality Assurance Analysts; Systems Architects; and Systems Developers
Computer Systems Analysts solve computer problems and apply computer technology to meet the individual needs of an organization. They help an organization realize the maximum benefit from its investment in equipment, personnel, and business processes. They use and analyze systems, interpret data, and customize systems to better meet the organization’s needs. Systems Analysts may plan and develop new computer systems or devise ways to apply an existing systems’ resources to additional operations. Most Systems Analysts work with specific types of systems, such as business, accounting, or financial; or scientific and engineering, which vary with the kind of organization. Computer Systems Analysts use a variety of tools and technology in their work. They may use desktop, laptop, and mainframe computers as well as personal digital assistants (PDAs) or organizers. Analysts typically use an assortment of software for such things as program testing, development environment, object- or component-oriented development, configuration management, database management systems, and Web platform development.
Each task below is matched to a sample skill required to carry out the task.
Systems Analysts work about 40 hours a week; however, evening or weekend work may be necessary to meet deadlines or solve specific problems. Although Systems Analysts frequently work in teams on large projects, they sometimes work independently. Telecommuting is common for computer professionals. As networks expand, more work can be done from remote locations using modems, laptops, e-mail, and the Internet. Like other workers who spend long periods in front of a computer, Systems Analysts should follow ergonomic procedures to avoid eyestrain, back discomfort, and hand and wrist problems, such as carpal tunnel syndrome or cumulative trauma disorder. Computer Systems Analysts working for government agencies may belong to the Service Employees International Union. There are also a number of engineering, mathematics, and scientific associations that Computer Systems Analysts may join.
The job of Computer Systems Analyst will appeal to those who enjoy activities that involve working with ideas and that require an extensive amount of thinking. The Computer Systems Analyst occupation satisfies those with investigative interests. Investigative occupations involve searching for facts and figuring out problems. Results-oriented individuals who are independent workers and like to make their own decisions should enjoy this type of job.
The median wage in 2021 for Computer Systems Analysts in California was N/A annually. The median is the point at which half of the workers earn more and half earn less.
Most employers offer benefit packages that include health, dental, and vision insurance, holidays, vacation, and retirement plans.
What Do Local Employers Say About Benefits? Of the 51 employers in San Benito and Santa Clara Counties, almost all provide medical insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, vacation, life insurance, and sick leave, and most provide retirement plan and disability insurance benefits to Computer Systems Analysts who work full-time.
Of the 51 employers surveyed who responded in San Benito and Santa Clara Counties, who provides medical benefits, almost all reported that they pay half or more of the cost of medical insurance for full-time, and none reported that they pay half or more of the cost of medical insurance for part-time Computer Systems Analysts.
Systems Analysts are expected to remain in great demand as business and government continue to adopt new computer technologies. Candidates capable of analyzing new systems, such as wireless Internet, should find the best opportunities. Workers with an information security background are in demand because of the increasing need to protect electronic information.
In California, the number of Computer Systems Analysts is expected to grow slower than average growth rate for all occupations. Jobs for Computer Systems Analysts are expected to increase by 7.5 percent, or 3,900 jobs between 2018 and 2028.
In San Benito and Santa Clara Counties, the number of Computer Systems Analysts is expected to grow faster than average growth rate for all occupations. Jobs for Computer Systems Analysts are expected to increase by 10.0 percent, or 1,290 jobs between 2018 and 2028.
Educational requirements for Computer Systems Analysts vary by employer. While a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information science, or management information systems (MIS) is required for many jobs, degree holders in a variety of majors find jobs as Systems Analysts. Courses in computer science or systems design offer good preparation for a job in this field. As more employers use the Internet to conduct business, they are continuously looking to hire candidates holding a master’s degree in business administration (MBA) with a concentration in information systems. Internships are a good way for students to gain valuable work experience. Having a background in the industry in which the job is located can be important. For example, jobs in scientific organizations may require a background in the physical sciences, mathematics, or engineering. Employers usually look for workers who have broad knowledge and experience in computer systems and technologies, strong problem-solving and analytical skills, and good interpersonal skills. Systems Analysts must be able to communicate effectively with technical personnel, such as programmers, as well as with managers and clients who have no computer background. Candidates with an understanding of business and are able to apply technology to make business processes more efficient and cost-effective will be especially in demand.
High school students interested in this kind of work should take classes in mathematics, computer science, language arts, business, physical science, and engineering technology.
There may be Regional Occupational Programs (ROP) related to this occupation. To find an ROP program near you, go to the California Association of Regional Occupational Centers and Programs Web site at www.carocp.org/carocps.html.
Systems Analysts must continually update their skills and knowledge due to the constantly changing technology. Employers, hardware and software vendors, colleges and universities, and private training institutions offer continuing education. Professional seminars can also enhance skills and advancement opportunities.
Certification is not required to work as a Computer Systems Analyst; however, voluntary certification may demonstrate a level of competence in a particular field. Some vendors may offer certification and require professionals who work with their products to be certified. For more information, go to the U.S. Department of Labor's Career InfoNet Web site at www.acinet.org and scroll down to "Career Tools." Click on "Certification Finder" at www.acinet.org/certifications_new/default.aspx and follow the instructions to locate certification programs.
There are two ways to search for training information at www.labormarketinfo.edd.ca.gov/resources/training-and-apprenticeships.html
Contact the schools you are interested in to learn about the classes available, tuition and fees, and any prerequisite course work.
Computer Systems Analysts work in a variety of industries with a large concentration employed in the public sector. The largest industries employing Computer Systems Analysts are as follows:
The Employment Development Department surveyed 51 employers in San Benito and Santa Clara Counties which employ 374 Computer Systems Analysts. Here's what they had to say: About Full-Time/Part-Time: Almost All of these firms employ full-time and few employ part-time Computer Systems Analysts.
About Work Experience: Of the 51 employers surveyed in San Benito and Santa Clara Counties, all require new hires to have prior work experience as Computer Systems Analysts. In the table below, percentages may not add to 100% since employers may select more than one time period.
About Recruitment: Of the 51 employers surveyed in San Benito and Santa Clara Counties, many indicate it is moderately difficult to find applicants with experience who meet their minimum hiring requirements, while many indicate it is easy to find applicants without previous experience who meet their minimum hiring requirements to fill vacancies for Computer Systems Analysts.
About Hiring: Of the 51 employers surveyed in San Benito and Santa Clara Counties, almost all expect the number of Computer Systems Analysts they employ to remain stable during the coming year.
About Vacancies: Of the 51 employers surveyed in San Benito and Santa Clara Counties, 39 percent hired Computer Systems Analysts during the past year. Of the hiring firms, 70 percent filled existing vacancies, 30 percent filled newly created positions, and 20 percent filled temporary assignments.
Networking with associates or peers is important in this occupation, since many Systems Analysts find work through word of mouth and referrals. Direct application to employers is also an effective job search method, as well as browsing newspaper ads and Internet job postings. Those interested in civil service jobs should contact federal, State, county, and city personnel offices or visit their Web sites. Online job opening systems include JobCentral at www.jobcentral.com and CalJOBSSM at www.caljobs.ca.gov.To find your nearest One-Stop Career Center, go to Service Locator. View the helpful job search tips for more resources. (requires Adobe Reader).
You can focus your local job search by checking employers listed online or in your local telephone directory. Below are some suggested headings where you might find employers of Computer Systems Analysts.
To locate a list of employers in your area, use "Find Employers" on the LaborMarketInfo Web site at http://www.labormarketinfo.edd.ca.gov/aspdotnet/databrowsing/empMain.aspx?menuChoice=emp
In large companies, persons who begin as Systems Analysts may be promoted to senior or lead analysts after several years of experience. Systems Analysts who show leadership ability may become project managers or advance into management positions such as information systems managers or chief information officer. Systems Analysts, with several years of experience or considerable expertise in a particular area may find lucrative opportunities as independent consultants or may choose to start their own computer consulting firms.
Below is a list of occupations related to Computer Systems Analysts.
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Printed on Tuesday, June 28, 2022