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. 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.
Also called: Applications Analyst, Applications Systems Analyst, Automatic Data Processing Planner (ADP Planner), Business Systems Analyst, Computer Analyst, Computer Architect
Median pay
$105,850
per year, U.S.
Pay range (10th–90th)
$67,340 – $167,710
People employed
519,530
Holland code
ICR
Investigative · Conventional · Realistic
Updated October 2026 · Data: O*NET 31.0 and BLS OEWS May 2025 · How we match careers
Is this career right for you?
These are the things that stand out in this job compared with other U.S. jobs (O*NET 31.0 work context). Answer honestly.
- 1.Do you want the same hours every week?
- 2.Are you OK repeating the same tasks most of the day?
- 3.Do you prefer working indoors?
- 4.Are you comfortable sitting at a desk most of the day?
- 5.Do you want a job with little physical risk?
The hard parts
- Tight deadlines are common
Computer Systems Analysts pay by state
Highest-paying states
Annual median pay by state (49 states and DC with published data). Source: BLS OEWS May 2025.
What computer systems analysts do
- 01Troubleshoot program and system malfunctions to restore normal functioning.
- 02Provide staff and users with assistance solving computer-related problems, such as malfunctions and program problems.
- 03Test, maintain, and monitor computer programs and systems, including coordinating the installation of computer programs and systems.
- 04Use the computer in the analysis and solution of business problems, such as development of integrated production and inventory control and cost analysis systems.
- 05Coordinate and link the computer systems within an organization to increase compatibility so that information can be shared.
- 06Use object-oriented programming languages, as well as client and server applications development processes and multimedia and Internet technology.
Skills that matter most
- Speaking
- Reading Comprehension
- Critical Thinking
- Active Listening
- Active Learning
- Writing
Knowledge
- Computers and Electronics
- Customer and Personal Service
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Administration and Management
Work styles that stand out
- Dependability
- Attention to Detail
- Intellectual Curiosity
- Innovation
Education and first steps
Share of workers by required education, as reported to O*NET.
How people get started
- Usually needs a bachelor's degree (O*NET Job Zone 4).
- Related work experience: over 4 years, up to and including 6 years.
- On-the-job training: over 6 months, up to and including 1 year.
Most common answers from O*NET 31.0 Education, Training and Experience.
Interest fit (Holland code)
O*NET occupational interest scores, scale 1–7. Take the Free Career Test to compare with your own.
Career changes
Change from computer systems analysts
- Computer and Information Systems Managers82% · +65%
- Radio Frequency Identification Device Specialists76% · group pay
- Data Scientists76% · +14%
- Clinical Data Managers73% · group pay
- Computer Hardware Engineers73% · +53%
Change into computer systems analysts
Jobs whose skills carry over best (skill match, their median pay).
- Business Intelligence Analysts81% · $120,230
- Operations Research Analysts80% · $88,940
- Radio Frequency Identification Device Specialists76% · $130,220
- Statistical Assistants76% · $50,330
- Data Scientists75% · $120,230
Majors that lead here
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- Information Technology
- Computer Systems Analysis/Analyst
- Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications
From the NCES CIP 2020 to SOC 2018 crosswalk.