Computer Systems Analysts

Job Zone

Job Zone Four: Considerable Preparation Needed

Most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not.

Job Zones group occupations into one of five categories based on the education, experience, and training typically needed to perform them.

Tasks

Specific duties and responsibilities regularly performed in this occupation.

Troubleshoot program and system malfunctions to restore normal functioning.81
Provide staff and users with assistance solving computer-related problems, such as malfunctions and program problems.76
Test, maintain, and monitor computer programs and systems, including coordinating the installation of computer programs and systems.75
Use the computer in the analysis and solution of business problems, such as development of integrated production and inventory control and cost analysis systems.74
Coordinate and link the computer systems within an organization to increase compatibility so that information can be shared.70
Use object-oriented programming languages, as well as client and server applications development processes and multimedia and Internet technology.68
Analyze information processing or computation needs and plan and design computer systems, using techniques such as structured analysis, data modeling, and information engineering.65
Review and analyze computer printouts and performance indicators to locate code problems, and correct errors by correcting codes.65
Consult with management to ensure agreement on system principles.64
Specify inputs accessed by the system and plan the distribution and use of the results.62
Expand or modify system to serve new purposes or improve work flow.62
Train staff and users to work with computer systems and programs.61

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Interview or survey workers, observe job performance, or perform the job to determine what information is processed and how it is processed.61
Supervise computer programmers or other systems analysts or serve as project leaders for particular systems projects.60
Assess the usefulness of pre-developed application packages and adapt them to a user environment.59
Determine computer software or hardware needed to set up or alter systems.58
Read manuals, periodicals, and technical reports to learn how to develop programs that meet staff and user requirements.55
Develop, document, and revise system design procedures, test procedures, and quality standards.55
Recommend new equipment or software packages.53
Define the goals of the system and devise flow charts and diagrams describing logical operational steps of programs.52
Confer with clients regarding the nature of the information processing or computation needs a computer program is to address.52
Prepare cost-benefit and return-on-investment analyses to aid in decisions on system implementation.45
Write code to perform desired actions.—

Skills

Developed capacities that facilitate learning or the more rapid acquisition of knowledge.

Speaking75
Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Reading Comprehension72
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
Active Listening69
Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Critical Thinking69
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
Systems Analysis69
Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes.
Systems Evaluation69
Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed to improve or correct performance, relative to the goals of the system.
Active Learning66
Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
Judgment and Decision Making66
Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
Complex Problem Solving60
Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
Monitoring60
Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
Writing60
Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
Programming56
Writing computer programs for various purposes.

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Coordination53
Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
Learning Strategies53
Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate for the situation when learning or teaching new things.
Social Perceptiveness53
Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.
Time Management53
Managing one's own time and the time of others.
Troubleshooting53
Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.
Mathematics50
Using mathematics to solve problems.
Operations Analysis50
Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design.
Operations Monitoring50
Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
Quality Control Analysis50
Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.
Service Orientation50
Actively looking for ways to help people.
Instructing47
Teaching others how to do something.
Management of Personnel Resources47
Motivating, developing, and directing people as they work, identifying the best people for the job.
Technology Design47
Generating or adapting equipment and technology to serve user needs.
Persuasion44
Persuading others to change their minds or behavior.
Negotiation38
Bringing others together and trying to reconcile differences.
Operation and Control38
Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
Equipment Selection31
Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job.
Science31
Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
Management of Financial Resources28
Determining how money will be spent to get the work done, and accounting for these expenditures.
Management of Material Resources25
Obtaining and seeing to the appropriate use of equipment, facilities, and materials needed to do certain work.
Equipment Maintenance22
Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind of maintenance is needed.
Repairing22
Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.
Installation16
Installing equipment, machines, wiring, or programs to meet specifications.

Knowledge

Organized sets of principles and facts that apply in general domains.

Computers and Electronics91
Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
Customer and Personal Service68
Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
English Language62
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, and rules of composition and grammar.
Mathematics56
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
Administration and Management55
Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.
Education and Training50
Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
Telecommunications49
Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of telecommunications systems.
Engineering and Technology43
Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
Administrative39
Knowledge of administrative and office procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, stenography and transcription, designing forms, and workplace terminology.
Personnel and Human Resources36
Knowledge of principles and procedures for personnel recruitment, selection, training, compensation and benefits, labor relations and negotiation, and personnel information systems.
Communications and Media34
Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and methods. This includes alternative ways to inform and entertain via written, oral, and visual media.
Economics and Accounting33
Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, the financial markets, banking, and the analysis and reporting of financial data.

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Law and Government32
Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulations, executive orders, agency rules, and the democratic political process.
Public Safety and Security31
Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.
Design28
Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
Sales and Marketing27
Knowledge of principles and methods for showing, promoting, and selling products or services. This includes marketing strategy and tactics, product demonstration, sales techniques, and sales control systems.
Production and Processing18
Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
Geography14
Knowledge of principles and methods for describing the features of land, sea, and air masses, including their physical characteristics, locations, interrelationships, and distribution of plant, animal, and human life.
Mechanical14
Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
Psychology11
Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, personality, and interests; learning and motivation; psychological research methods; and the assessment and treatment of behavioral and affective disorders.
Sociology and Anthropology8
Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human migrations, ethnicity, cultures, and their history and origins.
Transportation8
Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea, or road, including the relative costs and benefits.
Philosophy and Theology7
Knowledge of different philosophical systems and religions. This includes their basic principles, values, ethics, ways of thinking, customs, practices, and their impact on human culture.
Physics7
Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships, and applications to understanding fluid, material, and atmospheric dynamics, and mechanical, electrical, atomic and sub-atomic structures and processes.
Therapy and Counseling6
Knowledge of principles, methods, and procedures for diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of physical and mental dysfunctions, and for career counseling and guidance.
Chemistry5
Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances and of the chemical processes and transformations that they undergo. This includes uses of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods.
History and Archeology5
Knowledge of historical events and their causes, indicators, and effects on civilizations and cultures.
Medicine and Dentistry5
Knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human injuries, diseases, and deformities. This includes symptoms, treatment alternatives, drug properties and interactions, and preventive health-care measures.
Biology4
Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interdependencies, and interactions with each other and the environment.
Building and Construction3
Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads.
Fine Arts0
Knowledge of the theory and techniques required to compose, produce, and perform works of music, dance, visual arts, drama, and sculpture.
Food Production0
Knowledge of techniques and equipment for planting, growing, and harvesting food products (both plant and animal) for consumption, including storage/handling techniques.
Foreign Language0
Knowledge of the structure and content of a foreign (non-English) language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition and grammar, and pronunciation.

Abilities

Enduring attributes of the individual that influence performance.

Deductive Reasoning78
The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
Information Ordering75
The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according to a specific rule or set of rules (e.g., patterns of numbers, letters, words, pictures, mathematical operations).
Oral Comprehension75
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
Oral Expression75
The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
Written Comprehension75
The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
Inductive Reasoning72
The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).
Near Vision72
The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
Problem Sensitivity72
The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing that there is a problem.
Speech Recognition66
The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person.
Fluency of Ideas63
The ability to come up with a number of ideas about a topic (the number of ideas is important, not their quality, correctness, or creativity).
Speech Clarity63
The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.
Written Expression60
The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand.

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Category Flexibility56
The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping things in different ways.
Flexibility of Closure53
The ability to identify or detect a known pattern (a figure, object, word, or sound) that is hidden in other distracting material.
Visualization53
The ability to imagine how something will look after it is moved around or when its parts are moved or rearranged.
Far Vision50
The ability to see details at a distance.
Mathematical Reasoning50
The ability to choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a problem.
Number Facility50
The ability to add, subtract, multiply, or divide quickly and correctly.
Originality50
The ability to come up with unusual or clever ideas about a given topic or situation, or to develop creative ways to solve a problem.
Perceptual Speed50
The ability to quickly and accurately compare similarities and differences among sets of letters, numbers, objects, pictures, or patterns. The things to be compared may be presented at the same time or one after the other. This ability also includes comparing a presented object with a remembered object.
Speed of Closure50
The ability to quickly make sense of, combine, and organize information into meaningful patterns.
Selective Attention47
The ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distracted.
Finger Dexterity41
The ability to make precisely coordinated movements of the fingers of one or both hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble very small objects.
Time Sharing41
The ability to shift back and forth between two or more activities or sources of information (such as speech, sounds, touch, or other sources).
Memorization38
The ability to remember information such as words, numbers, pictures, and procedures.
Visual Color Discrimination38
The ability to match or detect differences between colors, including shades of color and brightness.
Auditory Attention25
The ability to focus on a single source of sound in the presence of other distracting sounds.
Control Precision25
The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehicle to exact positions.
Hearing Sensitivity25
The ability to detect or tell the differences between sounds that vary in pitch and loudness.
Arm-Hand Steadiness22
The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while holding your arm and hand in one position.
Manual Dexterity22
The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your two hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble objects.
Trunk Strength19
The ability to use your abdominal and lower back muscles to support part of the body repeatedly or continuously over time without "giving out" or fatiguing.
Wrist-Finger Speed16
The ability to make fast, simple, repeated movements of the fingers, hands, and wrists.
Depth Perception13
The ability to judge which of several objects is closer or farther away from you, or to judge the distance between you and an object.
Extent Flexibility10
The ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach with your body, arms, and/or legs.
Dynamic Strength6
The ability to exert muscle force repeatedly or continuously over time. This involves muscular endurance and resistance to muscle fatigue.
Reaction Time6
The ability to quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to a signal (sound, light, picture) when it appears.
Multilimb Coordination3
The ability to coordinate two or more limbs (for example, two arms, two legs, or one leg and one arm) while sitting, standing, or lying down. It does not involve performing the activities while the whole body is in motion.
Rate Control3
The ability to time your movements or the movement of a piece of equipment in anticipation of changes in the speed and/or direction of a moving object or scene.
Dynamic Flexibility0
The ability to quickly and repeatedly bend, stretch, twist, or reach out with your body, arms, and/or legs.
Explosive Strength0
The ability to use short bursts of muscle force to propel oneself (as in jumping or sprinting), or to throw an object.
Glare Sensitivity0
The ability to see objects in the presence of a glare or bright lighting.
Gross Body Coordination0
The ability to coordinate the movement of your arms, legs, and torso together when the whole body is in motion.
Gross Body Equilibrium0
The ability to keep or regain your body balance or stay upright when in an unstable position.
Night Vision0
The ability to see under low-light conditions.
Peripheral Vision0
The ability to see objects or movement of objects to one's side when the eyes are looking ahead.
Response Orientation0
The ability to choose quickly between two or more movements in response to two or more different signals (lights, sounds, pictures). It includes the speed with which the correct response is started with the hand, foot, or other body part.
Sound Localization0
The ability to tell the direction from which a sound originated.
Spatial Orientation0
The ability to know your location in relation to the environment or to know where other objects are in relation to you.
Speed of Limb Movement0
The ability to quickly move the arms and legs.
Stamina0
The ability to exert yourself physically over long periods of time without getting winded or out of breath.
Static Strength0
The ability to exert maximum muscle force to lift, push, pull, or carry objects.

Work Activities

General types of job behaviors occurring on multiple jobs.

Working with Computers99
Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
Getting Information90
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
Making Decisions and Solving Problems90
Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
Processing Information86
Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge86
Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
Analyzing Data or Information79
Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates79
Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings76
Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events70
Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards67
Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.
Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others67
Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People66
Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.

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Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work66
Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.
Thinking Creatively66
Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
Documenting/Recording Information65
Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships64
Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.
Developing Objectives and Strategies62
Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to achieve them.
Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials60
Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
Assisting and Caring for Others57
Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other personal care to others such as coworkers, customers, or patients.
Communicating with People Outside the Organization57
Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organization to customers, the public, government, and other external sources. This information can be exchanged in person, in writing, or by telephone or e-mail.
Controlling Machines and Processes57
Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).
Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information55
Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resources, or materials needed to perform a work activity.
Developing and Building Teams54
Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team members.
Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others53
Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, or otherwise negotiating with others.
Scheduling Work and Activities50
Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.
Training and Teaching Others45
Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others.
Monitoring and Controlling Resources43
Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money.
Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment41
Servicing, repairing, calibrating, regulating, fine-tuning, or testing machines, devices, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of electrical or electronic (not mechanical) principles.
Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates39
Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance standards and monitoring performance.
Coaching and Developing Others38
Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherwise helping others to improve their knowledge or skills.
Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others37
Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks.
Providing Consultation and Advice to Others37
Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical, systems-, or process-related topics.
Performing Administrative Activities36
Performing day-to-day administrative tasks such as maintaining information files and processing paperwork.
Handling and Moving Objects31
Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.
Performing General Physical Activities25
Performing general physical activities includes doing activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling materials.
Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment22
Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of mechanical (not electronic) principles.
Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment20
Providing documentation, detailed instructions, drawings, or specifications to tell others about how devices, parts, equipment, or structures are to be fabricated, constructed, assembled, modified, maintained, or used.
Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment19
Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, such as forklifts, passenger vehicles, aircraft, or watercraft.
Selling or Influencing Others14
Convincing others to buy merchandise/goods or to otherwise change their minds or actions.
Performing for or Working Directly with the Public13
Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving customers in restaurants and stores, and receiving clients or guests.
Staffing Organizational Units13
Recruiting, interviewing, selecting, hiring, and promoting employees in an organization.

Work Styles

Personal characteristics that can affect how well someone performs a job.

Attention to Detail86
A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work.
Intellectual Curiosity78
A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep understanding of work-related subjects.
Innovation77
A tendency to be inventive, to be imaginative, and to adopt new perspectives on ways to accomplish work.
Dependability72
A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related obligations.
Adaptability62
A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas at work.
Integrity59
A tendency to be honest and ethical at work.
Perseverance58
A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in the face of difficult circumstances or obstacles at work.
Cautiousness57
A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related decisions or doing work.
Tolerance for Ambiguity57
A tendency to be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty at work.
Initiative54
A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may fall outside of one's required work role.
Achievement Orientation53
A tendency to establish and maintain personally challenging work-related goals, set high work-related standards, and exert high effort toward meeting those goals and standards.
Cooperation53
A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work.

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Stress Tolerance53
A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work.
Self-Confidence48
A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control one's work-related outcomes.
Self-Control38
A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in response to criticism or difficult situations at work.
Social Orientation30
A tendency to seek out, enjoy, and be energized by social interaction at work.
Sincerity25
A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, without concern for personal gain or self-interest.
Empathy21
A tendency to show concern for others and be sensitive to others' needs and feelings at work.
Leadership Orientation21
A tendency to lead, take charge, offer opinions, and provide direction at work.
Humility18
A tendency to be modest and humble when interacting with others at work.
Optimism6
A tendency to exhibit a positive attitude and positive emotions at work, even under difficult circumstances.

Interests (RIASEC)

Holland's six occupational interest types (RIASEC) this work tends to attract.

Investigative90
Work involves studying and researching non-living objects, living organisms, disease or other forms of impairment, or human behavior. Investigative occupations are often associated with physical, life, medical, or social sciences, and can be found in the fields of humanities, mathematics/statistics, information technology, or health care service.
Conventional82
Work involves following procedures and regulations to organize information or data, typically in a business setting. Conventional occupations are often associated with office work, accounting, mathematics/statistics, information technology, finance, or human resources.
Realistic38
Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.
Enterprising21
Work involves managing, negotiating, marketing, or selling, typically in a business setting, or leading or advising people in political and legal situations. Enterprising occupations are often associated with business initiatives, sales, marketing/advertising, finance, management/administration, professional advising, public speaking, politics, or law.
Artistic16
Work involves creating original visual artwork, performances, written works, food, or music for a variety of media, or applying artistic principles to the design of various objects and materials. Artistic occupations are often associated with visual arts, applied arts and design, performing arts, music, creative writing, media, or culinary art.
Social15
Work involves helping, teaching, advising, assisting, or providing service to others. Social occupations are often associated with social, health care, personal service, teaching/education, or religious activities.

Work Context

Physical and social factors that influence the nature of work.

E-Mail
- Every day100%
Telephone Conversations
- Every day79%
- Once a week or more but not every day21%
Indoors, Environmentally Controlled
- Every day93%
Determine Tasks, Priorities and Goals
- A lot of freedom65%
Importance of Being Exact or Accurate
- Extremely important54%
- Very important45%
Contact With Others
- Constant contact with others73%
- Contact with others most of the time14%
- Occasional contact with others11%
Work With or Contribute to a Work Group or Team
- Extremely important63%
- Very important22%
- Fairly important14%
Face-to-Face Discussions with Individuals and Within Teams
- Every day32%
- Once a week or more but not every day63%
Freedom to Make Decisions
- A lot of freedom34%
- Some freedom58%
Spend Time Sitting
- Continually or almost continually53%
- More than half the time22%
- About half the time14%
- Less than half the time11%
Time Pressure
- Once a week or more but not every day50%
- Once a month or more but not every week14%
Duration of Typical Work Week
- More than 40 hours56%
- 40 hours44%

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Importance of Repeating Same Tasks
- Extremely important45%
- Very important39%
- Not important at all12%
Work Outcomes and Results of Other Workers
- High responsibility81%
Impact of Decisions on Co-workers or Company Results
- Important results61%
- Moderate results35%
Spend Time Making Repetitive Motions
- Continually or almost continually35%
- More than half the time28%
- Less than half the time33%
Coordinate or Lead Others in Accomplishing Work Activities
- Extremely important15%
- Very important55%
- Important16%
- Not important at all15%
Frequency of Decision Making
- Every day15%
- Once a week or more but not every day23%
- Once a month or more but not every week54%
Level of Competition
- Extremely competitive18%
- Highly competitive13%
- Moderately competitive61%
Spend Time Using Your Hands to Handle, Control, or Feel Objects, Tools, or Controls
- Continually or almost continually42%
- More than half the time20%
- Never38%
Written Letters and Memos
- Every day15%
- Once a week or more but not every day29%
- Once a month or more but not every week19%
- Once a year or more but not every month34%
Consequence of Error
- Very serious16%
- Serious43%
- Fairly serious32%
Physical Proximity
- Moderately close (at arm's length)34%
- Slightly close (e.g., shared office)32%
- I work with others but not closely (e.g., private office)32%
Deal With External Customers or the Public in General
- Very important44%
- Fairly important12%
- Not important at all34%
Degree of Automation
- Highly automated17%
- Moderately automated43%
- Slightly automated35%
Dealing With Unpleasant, Angry, or Discourteous People
- Once a week or more but not every day14%
- Once a month or more but not every week16%
- Once a year or more but not every month66%
Spend Time Standing
- More than half the time14%
- About half the time17%
- Less than half the time61%
Conflict Situations
- Once a week or more but not every day21%
- Once a month or more but not every week19%
- Once a year or more but not every month34%
Public Speaking
- Every day11%
- Once a month or more but not every week19%
- Once a year or more but not every month50%
- Never20%
Spend Time Walking or Running
- Continually or almost continually15%
- Less than half the time52%
- Never28%
Health and Safety of Other Workers
- High responsibility14%
- Moderate responsibility21%
- Limited responsibility26%
- No responsibility38%
Exposed to Sounds, Noise Levels that are Distracting or Uncomfortable
- Once a year or more but not every month30%
- Never55%
Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets
- Never76%
Exposed to Cramped Work Space, Awkward Positions
- Once a month or more but not every week15%
- Once a year or more but not every month15%
- Never70%
In an Enclosed Vehicle or Operate Enclosed Equipment
- Once a month or more but not every week11%
- Once a year or more but not every month15%
- Never72%
Spend Time Bending or Twisting Your Body
- Less than half the time38%
- Never62%
Spend Time Kneeling, Crouching, Stooping, or Crawling
- Less than half the time32%
- Never66%
Pace Determined by Speed of Equipment
- Fairly important31%
- Not important at all69%
Exposed to Contaminants
- Once a year or more but not every month18%
- Never79%
Exposed to Minor Burns, Cuts, Bites, or Stings
- Once a year or more but not every month12%
- Never85%
Dealing with Violent or Physically Aggressive People
- Once a year or more but not every month17%
- Never83%
Exposed to Very Hot or Cold Temperatures
- Never88%
Indoors, Not Environmentally Controlled
- Never91%
Exposed to Disease or Infections
- Never93%
Exposed to Hazardous Conditions
- Never93%
Exposed to Hazardous Equipment
- Once a year or more but not every month11%
- Never89%
Exposed to High Places
- Once a year or more but not every month12%
- Never88%
Outdoors, Exposed to All Weather Conditions
- Never93%
Outdoors, Under Cover
- Never94%
Spend Time Climbing Ladders, Scaffolds, or Poles
- Less than half the time12%
- Never88%
Exposed to Extremely Bright or Inadequate Lighting Conditions
- Never93%
In an Open Vehicle or Operating Equipment
- Never95%
Spend Time Keeping or Regaining Balance
- Never91%
Exposed to Radiation
- Never100%
Exposed to Whole Body Vibration
- Never100%
Wear Specialized Protective or Safety Equipment such as Breathing Apparatus, Safety Harness, Full Protection Suits, or Radiation Protection
- Never100%
Work Schedules
- Regular (established routine, set schedule)100%

Typical Education Levels Reported

Education levels O*NET survey respondents in this occupation most often reported having.

Associate’s degree or other 2-year degree
Bachelor’s degree
Some college, no degree

Technology Skills

Specific software and technology tools commonly used on the job.

Development environment software
Apache Kafka, Apache Maven, Oracle Java 2 Platform Enterprise Edition J2EE, Oracle SQL Developer
Data base user interface and query software
Blackboard software, IBM DB2, ServiceNow, Transact-SQL
Web platform development software
Django, Google Angular, React, Spring Framework
Program testing software
Functional testing software, Hewlett Packard LoadRunner, JUnit, Selenium
Object or component oriented development software
C#, jQuery, Scala, Swift
Data base management system software
Amazon DynamoDB, Apache Hive, Oracle Database, Oracle PL/SQL
Operating system software
Bash, Microsoft Windows Server, Red Hat Enterprise Linux, UNIX Shell
Configuration management software
Chef, HyperSpace, Perforce Helix software, Puppet
Enterprise resource planning ERP software
Microsoft Dynamics, Oracle PeopleSoft, SAP ERP, SAP software
Enterprise application integration software
Extensible markup language XML, IBM InfoSphere DataStage, Microsoft SQL Server Integration Services SSIS, WebFOCUS
Business intelligence and data analysis software
Apache Spark, IBM Cognos Impromptu, Microsoft Power BI, Tableau
Application server software
Docker, GitHub, Red Hat OpenShift, Spring Boot
Analytical or scientific software
IBM SPSS Statistics, Minitab, SAS, The MathWorks MATLAB
Medical software
Epic Systems, Medical condition coding software, Medical procedure coding software, MEDITECH software
Desktop communications software
Remote control software, Skype, Stac Software ReachOut, Symantec pcAnywhere
Computer aided design CAD software
Dassault Systemes CATIA, Electronic design automation EDA software, OrCAD Capture, SpectraQuest
Requirements analysis and system architecture software
Architecture description language ADL, Popkin System Architect, Requirements management software, Unified modeling language UML
Project management software
Atlassian Confluence, Microsoft Team Foundation Server, Microsoft Teams, Oracle Primavera Enterprise Project Portfolio Management
Metadata management software
Informatica Corporation PowerCenter, Oracle Master Data Management MDM Suite, Quest Erwin Data Modeler, SAP Master Data Management MDM
Network monitoring software
Nagios, Network intrusion prevention systems NIPS, Snort, Wireshark
Transaction server software
Customer information control system CICS, Microsoft Internet Information Services (IIS), Sun Microsystems Sun ONE, Web server software
Cloud-based management software
Amazon Web Services AWS CloudFormation, IBM WebSphere, Oracle Cloud software, Splunk Enterprise
Electronic mail software
IBM Notes, Microsoft Exchange, Microsoft Outlook
Object oriented data base management software
Hibernate ORM, Microsoft Visual FoxPro, PostgreSQL
File versioning software
Apache Subversion SVN, Git, Version control software
Customer relationship management CRM software
Blackbaud The Raiser's Edge, Oracle Eloqua, Salesforce software
Word processing software
3M Post-it App, Google Docs, Microsoft Word
Financial analysis software
Cost estimating software, Delphi Technology, Oracle E-Business Suite Financials
Transaction security and virus protection software
McAfee, NortonLifeLock cybersecurity software, Virus scanning software
Data base reporting software
Microsoft SQL Server Reporting Services SSRS, Oracle Business Intelligence Suite, SAP Crystal Reports
Human resources software
ADP Workforce Now, Human resource management software HRMS, Oracle Taleo
Geographic information system
ESRI ArcGIS software, Geographic information system GIS software
Pattern design software
Diagramming software, Omni Group OmniGraffle
Accounting software
Fund accounting software, Tax software
Access software
Access management software, Citrix cloud computing software
Graphics or photo imaging software
Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop
Document management software
Adobe Acrobat, Microsoft SharePoint
Administration software
Cisco Systems CiscoWorks, Element management software
Backup or archival software
System and data disaster recovery software, Veritas NetBackup
Process mapping and design software
Flow chart software, Microsoft Visio
Spreadsheet software
Microsoft Excel
Content workflow software
Atlassian JIRA
Helpdesk or call center software
Help desk software
Enterprise system management software
IBM Power Systems software
Expert system software
Ansible software
Clustering software
VMware
Video conferencing software
Cisco Webex
Communications server software
IBM Domino
Desktop publishing software
Microsoft Publisher
Portal server software
Apache HTTP Server
Video creation and editing software
YouTube
Network security or virtual private network VPN management software
Virtual private networking VPN software
Network conferencing software
Slido interaction software
Office suite software
Microsoft Office software
Cloud-based data access and sharing software
Slack
Graphical user interface development software
Salesforce Visualforce
Instant messaging software
Blink
Internet directory services software
Active directory software
Sales and marketing software
Marketo Marketing Automation
Internet protocol IP multimedia subsystem software
Voice over internet protocol VoIP system software
Presentation software
Microsoft PowerPoint
Web page creation and editing software
Adobe Dreamweaver
Data mining software
Google Analytics
Storage networking software
Amazon Simple Storage Service S3
Industrial control software
Supervisory control and data acquisition SCADA software
Information retrieval or search software
LexisNexis
Compiler and decompiler software
Time sharing option TSO software

Professional Associations

Organizations related to this occupation, such as industry and licensing bodies.

Related Occupations

Occupations that call for similar work and worker requirements.

Detailed Work Activities

More specific, granular versions of the Work Activities above.

Troubleshoot issues with computer applications or systems.
Provide technical support for software maintenance or use.
Coordinate software or hardware installation.
Monitor computer system performance to ensure proper operation.
Test software performance.
Apply information technology to solve business or other applied problems.
Configure computer networks.
Write computer programming code.
Analyze project data to determine specifications or requirements.
Design integrated computer systems.
Analyze data to identify or resolve operational problems.
Collaborate with others to determine design specifications or details.

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Modify software programs to improve performance.
Select production input materials.
Train others in computer interface or software use.
Collect data about customer needs.
Manage information technology projects or system activities.
Supervise information technology personnel.
Evaluate utility of software or hardware technologies.
Identify information technology project resource requirements.
Develop testing routines or procedures.
Document design or development procedures.
Read documents to gather technical information.
Provide recommendations to others about computer hardware.
Develop diagrams or flow charts of system operation.
Estimate time or monetary resources needed to complete projects.

Apprenticeship Occupations

Registered apprenticeship program titles associated with this occupation.

Communications-Computer Systems Planning and Implementation(Mil Only)
Computer Systems Analyst
Computer Systems Analyst (Nof)
It Analyst
Public Health Informatician (Cdc)

This page incorporates information from O*NET Web Services by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).

Based on federal labor and demographic data. Data source & methodology