Also called:
Business Systems Analyst, Computer Systems Analyst, Computer Systems Consultant, Systems Analyst
In the Air Force:
Airborne Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) Operator; Airborne Mission Systems Specialist Craftsman, C-32/C-40; Airborne Mission Systems Specialist Journeyman, HC-130P/N; Bomber/Special Electronic Warfare and Radar Surveillance Integrated Avionics Apprentice, C-135/25 AF Systems/Carry-on EW; Bomber/Special Electronic Warfare and Radar Surveillance Integrated Avionics Journeyman, E-3 Computer/Electronic Warfare Systems; Cyber Defense Operations; Cyber Defense Operations Helper, Knowledge Operations; Cyber Intelligence Helper; Cyberspace Support Superintendent; Software Development Officer, Software Engineer
In the Army:
Cyber Network Defender; Cyber Operations Specialist; Cyberspace and Electromagnetic Activities (CEMA) Senior Sergeant (CEMA Sr SGT); Electronic Warfare Specialist; Health Services Systems Management; Information Protection Technician; Information Systems Technician; Military Intelligence (MI) Systems Maintainer/Integrator; Network Communication Systems Specialist; Senior Signal Warrant Officer
In the Coast Guard:
Electronics Specialty; Electronics Technician; Information System Technician; Information Systems Management; Intelligence Specialist
In the Marine Corps:
Applications Developer; Aviation Logistics Information Management System (ALIMS) Specialist; Basic Information Operations Staff Officer; Cyberspace Warfare Operator; Data Systems Chief; Data Systems Specialist; Information Operations Specialist; Intelligence Software/Security Engineer; Intelligence Technology and Data Chief; Network Engineering Officer
In the Navy:
ADP Programs Officer; CVN Propulsion Plant Local Area Network (PPLAN) Manager; CWO - Operations Technician, Surface; Cryptologic Technician (Technical); Fire Controlman; Information Systems Technician; Intelligence Specialist; LDO - Information Professional; Management Information Systems Officer; RL - Special Duty Officer Billet - Information Professional Officer
Computer systems analysts learn an organization’s computer systems, and design improvements and fixes to help them run more efficiently. They focus on understanding the specific needs of the business so that their information technology, or IT, solutions expand the business’ capacity, while keeping computer systems running. Computer systems analysts research emerging technologies, analyze the costs and potential benefits of changes, devise ways to improve existing computer systems, and introduce new hardware and software to the organization. They also train end users to use new systems, and may even write the instruction manuals for them. Computer systems analysts may work directly for an organization or as consultants—typically for IT firms. They work in many organizations, including systems design companies, finance and insurance, and government. Their projects usually require collaboration with other employees and groups. Most systems analysts work full time, and overtime can be expected when projects require it. Consultants may need to travel to meet with clients. While most computer systems analysts have a bachelor’s degree in a computer-related field, a liberal arts degree may be acceptable if a candidate has programming or technical expertise. Some employers prefer applicants with a master's degree in business administration with a concentration in information systems.
What they do:
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.
On the job, you would:
Test, maintain, and monitor computer programs and systems, including coordinating the installation of computer programs and systems.
Troubleshoot program and system malfunctions to restore normal functioning.
Expand or modify system to serve new purposes or improve work flow.
Knowledge
Engineering and Technology
computers and electronics
Arts and Humanities
English language
Business
customer service
management
Math and Science
arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, or statistics
Skills
Basic Skills
listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
reading work related information
People and Technology Systems
figuring out how a system should work and how changes in the future will affect it
thinking about the pros and cons of different options and picking the best one
Problem Solving
noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it
Abilities
Verbal
listen and understand what people say
read and understand what is written
Ideas and Logic
notice when problems happen
use rules to solve problems
Math
add, subtract, multiply, or divide
choose the right type of math to solve a problem
Visual Understanding
quickly know what you are looking at
Personality
People interested in this work like activities that include ideas, thinking, and figuring things out.
They do well at jobs that need:
Analytical Thinking
Attention to Detail
Adaptability/Flexibility
Dependability
Integrity
Cooperation
Technology
You might use software like this on the job:
Development environment software
Oracle Java 2 Platform Enterprise Edition J2EE
Oracle SQL Developer
Data base user interface and query software
Blackboard software
ServiceNow
Web platform development software
React
Spring Framework
Education
bachelor's degree or associate's degree usually needed
Job Outlook
New job opportunities are very likely in the future.