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all about systems analyst jobs

As a systems analyst, it's your job to conduct research, and develop and implement information systems. You also help create development plans, policies, and procedures, and advise on a wide range of information system issues. If you're highly analytical and enjoy working with computers, a career as a systems analyst may be a natural fit for you.

Skilled systems analysts have a comprehensive understanding of the software they work with and all the unique requirements and protocols in their industry. With this expertise, you will be able to accurately and efficiently analyze your company systems and devise ways to make improvements and streamline efficiency.

what systems analyst jobs entail

Systems analyst jobs typically require you to work full-time hours in an office. You will most likely report to someone in your employer's IT department, such as an IT manager or director. As a systems analyst, you may also be employed by an IT consulting or development firm or choose to work as an independent consultant.

average systems analyst salaries

Currently, the average systems analyst salaries in Canada range from roughly $65,000 to $95,000, depending on your years of experience. As systems analysts tend to be on the more experienced side, they may have previously worked in other IT jobs before becoming a systems analyst.

Those who are starting out in a systems analyst job can expect to command in the $65,000 range in most Canadian markets. Systems analysts are needed in a wide range of industries and fields, leading to consistently high salaries. As with many tech jobs, the highest demand is found in city centres such as Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal and Calgary.

your day to day tasks

As a systems analyst, your company counts on you to accurately assess company systems and software and report on your findings. You may systems that are used internally, by colleagues, and externally, by clientele. In the course of your workday, you:

work with clients to identify and document requirements
conduct business and technical studies
design, develop, integrate and implement IT solutions
advise on IT strategy, policy, security and delivery
develop solutions and evaluate workflow solutions
analyze the effectiveness of software and systems
assess quality assurance practices and IT systems
validate results by testing programs

where you can work

In the age of digital technology, businesses of all sizes in all industries use software and systems to manage day-to-day operations. Systems analysts play a key role in keeping these systems functioning at their peak capability. Your employer relies on your expertise to guide decisions regarding the use, improvement, and optimization of essential business systems.

Due to the ubiquity of computers in the workplace, systems analyst jobs are found in many different verticals, including information technology, banking and finance, manufacturing, government, and healthcare, among others. You may also choose to work as a consultant at a consulting firm, or independently.

what you bring to the table

To succeed in a systems analyst job, you must have a thorough understanding of the software and systems your business uses, as well as the best practices in your industry. Your employer counts on your expertise to make important decisions about technology and software. Some skills that will serve you well as a systems analyst:

experience programming and designing software
strong analytical and problem-solving skills
methodical, organized approach to analysis
detail-oriented and accurate
ability to prioritize and meet deadlines
able to work independently or collaborate as needed

Systems analysts are often privy to secure and encrypted information, so many companies will require security clearance before offering you a systems analyst job.

training and certifications

To become a systems analyst, you will need an undergraduate degree in computer science or a related field such as mathematics, commerce or business management. Prior programming experience is also an asset. Some employers may hire you with a college diploma in computer science and a significant amount of programming experience.

Experience or training with C, COBOL, software design, software documentation, software testing, software maintenance, software development process, software requirements, and software architecture are all important skills that will increase your earning potential and chance of being hired as a system analyst.

where your career is headed

The ubiquity of technology in business has ensured systems analysts enjoy abundant job opportunities. Service Canada anticipates a significant increase in systems analyst jobs as businesses increase their investment in and dependence on technology.

Systems analyst jobs can lead to more senior roles in IT, such as senior analyst roles or supervisory positions. Another option is to become a freelance consultant. To progress from a systems analyst job into these senior roles, you will have to demonstrate your leadership skills. Furthering your education with business or management courses will also help advance your career.