Although the average typical starting salary for a computer systems analyst may only be around $50,000 to $55,000, computer systems analysts have the potential to earn much higher wages once they’ve obtained some work experience. As the economy continues to increase its need for computers and information technology, the demand for qualified computer systems analysts also increases, which will also grow their salary potential.
What Computer Systems Analyst Work Entails
Computer systems analysts use computers and computer systems to help make a company function as efficiently and profitably as possible. They analyze an organization’s computer system and procedure and determine if it meets the needs of the company. They determine what the company is trying to do and then streamline the system to automate the processes to achieve their goals.
They monitor the network system for security, performance and efficiency and make their recommendations to management. They install, maintain and configure the computer hardware, software and networking components. They’re also in charge of upgrading the system as needed. Computer systems analysts also assist employees with any hardware, software or connectivity issues they may be facing.
Typical Starting Salary for Computer Systems Analysts
The typical starting salary for entry-level positions as computer systems analysts is $55,330 according to an August 2019 report by PayScale. Depending on the company and the location, starting wage for computer systems analysts may range from $39,000 to $76,000. Additional factors that can add to the wage are profit sharing and bonuses, which might add anywhere from $500 to $20,000 more to the salary.
Knowledge of certain software can also increase the salary potential for computer systems analysts. For instance, PayScale indicates that knowledge of Windows Office products can increase the salary potential five percent, while knowledge of the Linux operating system can increase it 10 percent. If an applicant has obtained multiple certifications, this can also be beneficial in terms of salary. The more knowledge and proficiency the applicant has, the better the chances of earning a higher starting salary.
How Experience Affects Salary
Experience can play a big part in determining wage potential even for an entry-level position. An individual may not have actual computer systems analyst experience working for an organization but may still have experience doing the work. Once a computer systems analyst is hired for an entry-level position, he or she will usually start at the low end of the pay scale. However, as the analyst gains work experience and learn new things, the salary potential generally increases as well.
Although the starting wage for computer systems analysts averages about $55,000, those with 1 to 4 years of experience fall in the area of $59,000. A salary of $71,000 is common for a computer systems analyst with five to nine years of experience. With 10 to 19 years of experience, the analyst may earn $78,000, while an analyst with 20 or more years of experience can easily earn $85,000 or more. These salary figures come from PayScale. Much higher wages are reported through the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
Related Resource: What Can I Do With a Computer Science Degree?
Wages in Different Locations
Location can play an important part in wage potential. The BLS reports that computer system analysts earn an average annual wage of $93,610 as of May 2018. However, it does not indicate if these wages are for starting salaries or for those with experience and seniority. Wages for computer systems analysts ranged from $54,360 to $142,220. Below are the five states where computer systems analysts earn the highest wages.
- New Jersey – $107,540
- District of Columbia – $106,790
- New York – $106,320
- California – $103,930
- Virginia – $102,290
Working as a computer systems analyst is a good career choice because it’s a position that is not only used in many industries but also one that will be around for a long time. Even the typical starting salary for a computer systems analyst is good for entry-level positions, but the bonus is that there is much room for growth.