Occupations15-1211.00

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.

Median annual pay
$103,790

BLS, 2024

Employment
521,100

U.S., 2024

Ten-year outlook
+8.7%

2024–34

Annual openings
34,200

Projected average

The work

Core tasks

  1. 01Troubleshoot program and system malfunctions to restore normal functioning.
  2. 02Provide staff and users with assistance solving computer-related problems, such as malfunctions and program problems.
  3. 03Test, maintain, and monitor computer programs and systems, including coordinating the installation of computer programs and systems.
  4. 04Use the computer in the analysis and solution of business problems, such as development of integrated production and inventory control and cost analysis systems.
  5. 05Coordinate and link the computer systems within an organization to increase compatibility so that information can be shared.
  6. 06Use object-oriented programming languages, as well as client and server applications development processes and multimedia and Internet technology.
  7. 07Analyze information processing or computation needs and plan and design computer systems, using techniques such as structured analysis, data modeling, and information engineering.
  8. 08Consult with management to ensure agreement on system principles.
  9. 09Specify inputs accessed by the system and plan the distribution and use of the results.
  10. 10Expand or modify system to serve new purposes or improve work flow.
  11. 11Train staff and users to work with computer systems and programs.
  12. 12Assess the usefulness of pre-developed application packages and adapt them to a user environment.

Capabilities

Essential skills

SpeakingReading ComprehensionActive ListeningCritical ThinkingActive LearningWritingMonitoringLearning StrategiesMathematicsScience

Employment outlook

Where the role is heading

U.S. employment is projected to move from 521,100 in 2024 to 566,500 in 2034, a +8.7% change.

BLS projects an average of 34,200 openings each year over the period, including openings created by workers leaving the occupation.