What is a computer analyst and how to become one

Updated January 8, 2025
4 min read
Quoted Expert
Kate Marek Ph.D.
introduction image

If you like to create diagrams and build computer systems, you might want to be a computer analyst. In this position, you will initiate computer system upgrades, publish and write technical reports and requirements. You will also configure hardware and software, train end-users on the software, and ensure that those who use computers do so efficiently.

To be a computer analyst, you will need strong analytical skills, pay attention to detail and be a team player. You will also need written and oral communication skills and be flexible in your schedule and computer duties. Your position will require adaptability and initiative.

You will need a bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field and have on-the-job experience. You can earn a master's degree for advanced placement and salaries. The outlook in the near future for computer analysts is excellent, and the job will grow faster than many jobs in the next several years. Because of your education, skills, and experience, you can make a median salary of $70,000 per year.

What general advice would you give to a Computer Analyst?

K

Kate Marek Ph.D.Kate Marek Ph.D. LinkedIn Profile

Director and Professor, Dominican University

Choose an organization in tune with one's values. Look for a job in growth areas, such as data asset management, data analysis, etc.
ScoreComputer AnalystUS Average
Salary
5.9

Avg. Salary $75,852

Avg. Salary $59,228

Stability Level
5.3

Growth Rate 9%

Growth Rate 0.3%

Diversity
5.5
Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 0.19%

Asian 14.61%

Black or African American 10.17%

Hispanic or Latino 10.96%

Unknown 5.00%

White 59.07%

Gender

female 28.65%

male 71.35%

Age - 42
Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 3.00%

Asian 7.00%

Black or African American 14.00%

Hispanic or Latino 19.00%

White 57.00%

Gender

female 47.00%

male 53.00%

Age - 42
Stress Level
5.3

Stress level is manageable

7.1 - high

Complexity Level
8.3

Complexity Level is challenging

7 - challenging

Work Life Balance
4.8

Work Life balance is fair

6.4 - fair

Computer Analyst career paths

Key steps to become a computer analyst

  1. Explore computer analyst education requirements

    Most common computer analyst degrees

    Bachelor's

    57.6 %

    Associate

    21.4 %

    Master's

    8.8 %
  2. Start to develop specific computer analyst skills

    Skills
    ascdesc
    Percentages
    ascdesc
    Computer System7.60%
    Troubleshoot6.95%
    C++5.90%
    Customer Service5.85%
    Linux5.31%
  3. Complete relevant computer analyst training and internships

    Accountants spend an average of 6-12 months on post-employment, on-the-job training. New computer analysts learn the skills and techniques required for their job and employer during this time. The chart below shows how long it takes to gain competency as a computer analyst based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real computer analyst resumes.
  4. Research computer analyst duties and responsibilities

    • Manage and create custom DNS for customers.
    • Manage technology deployment of major projects implementing select solutions using ITIL practices.
    • Serve as systems and network administrator managing hundreds of distribute Linux computers across campuses.
    • Manage inventory of forensic hardware and software utilities of forensic laboratory as well as maintaining forensic workstations and laboratory LAN.
  5. Prepare your computer analyst resume

    When your background is strong enough, you can start writing your computer analyst resume.

    You can use Zippia's AI resume builder to make the resume writing process easier while also making sure that you include key information that hiring managers expect to see on a computer analyst resume. You'll find resume tips and examples of skills, responsibilities, and summaries, all provided by Zippi, your career sidekick.

    Choose From 10+ Customizable Computer Analyst Resume templates

    Build a professional Computer Analyst resume in minutes. Browse through our resume examples to identify the best way to word your resume. Then choose from 10+ resume templates to create your Computer Analyst resume.
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    Computer Analyst Resume
    Computer Analyst Resume
    Computer Analyst Resume
  6. Apply for computer analyst jobs

    Now it's time to start searching for a computer analyst job. Consider the tips below for a successful job search:

    1. Browse job boards for relevant postings
    2. Consult your professional network
    3. Reach out to companies you're interested in working for directly
    4. Watch out for job scams

How Did You Land Your First Computer Analyst Job

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Average computer analyst salary

The average Computer Analyst salary in the United States is $75,852 per year or $36 per hour. Computer analyst salaries range between $57,000 and $99,000 per year.

Average Computer Analyst Salary
$75,852 Yearly
$36.47 hourly

What Am I Worth?

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How do computer analysts rate their job?

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Computer Analyst reviews

profile
A zippia user wrote a review on Nov 2023
Pros

You get to help a lot of people in many different ways as well as learning new things about technology

Cons

I have aids now due to the painfulness of sitting down all day


profile
A zippia user wrote a review on Jan 2022
Cons

There was nothing to like. Everyone was polite an hard workers

Pros

Working with The people


profile
A zippia user wrote a review on Jul 2020
Pros

I decided to go to technical support because I've been fascinated by technology all my life and I love working with the people as well. I want to use my technical know-how to solve directly the problems that customers have. I want to be the person who makes life easier and more enjoyable for people who have had a problem. This is what I like most as a technical Support.

Cons

I don't like sitting around being inactive. So I'll keep my self always busy


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Updated January 8, 2025

Zippia Research Team
Zippia Team

Editorial Staff

The Zippia Research Team has spent countless hours reviewing resumes, job postings, and government data to determine what goes into getting a job in each phase of life. Professional writers and data scientists comprise the Zippia Research Team.

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