Skip to content

IT and Engineering > Program Analyst

Salary National Average

Low Medium High
71080.0000 84590.0000 106650.0000

Supply and Demand

Candidate Supply: 2,973 Job Openings: 1,208

0 50 100

More Difficult Less Difficult

Salary Variance

Enter City, State to view local salaries and candidate demand.

Short Description:

A Program Analyst is responsible for analyzing and improving computer programs and systems to meet the needs of the organization. They evaluate existing software applications, identify areas for enhancement, and develop solutions to optimize performance and functionality. Program Analysts also work closely with developers and IT teams to design, test, and implement new systems or modifications. They ensure programs are efficient, user-friendly, and aligned with business goals. Strong technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and a deep understanding of software development processes are essential for success in this role.

Duties / Responsibilities:

  • Expand or modify the system to serve new purposes or improve workflow.
  • Test, maintain, and monitor computer programs and systems, including coordinating the installation of computer programs and systems.
  • Develop, document, and revise system design procedures, test procedures, and quality standards.
  • Provide staff and users with assistance solving computer-related problems, such as malfunctions and program problems.
  • Review and analyze computer printouts and performance indicators to locate code problems and correct errors by correcting codes.
  • Consult with management to ensure agreement on system principles.
  • Confer with clients regarding the nature of the information processing or computation needs a computer program is to address.
  • Read manuals, periodicals, and technical reports to learn how to develop programs that meet staff and user requirements.
  • Coordinate and link the computer systems within an organization to increase compatibility.
  • Determine computer software or hardware needed to set up or alter the system.

Skills / Requirements / Qualifications

  • Critical Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
  • Active Listening: Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
  • Reading Comprehension: Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
  • Speaking: Talking to others to convey information effectively.
  • Systems Analysis: Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes.
  • Complex Problem Solving: Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
  • Judgment and Decision Making: Considering the costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
  • Programming: Writing computer programs for various purposes.
  • Systems Evaluation: Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed to improve or correct performance relative to the system's goals.
  • Writing: Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the audience's needs.

Job Zones

  • Education: Most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not.
  • Related Experience: A considerable amount of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupations. 
  • Job Training: Employees in these occupations usually need several years of work-related experience, on-the-job training, or vocational training.
  • Job Zone Examples: Many of these occupations involve coordinating, supervising, managing, or training others. Examples include accountants, sales managers, database administrators, teachers, chemists, environmental engineers, criminal investigators, and special agents.
  • Specific Vocational Preparation in years: 2-4 years of preparation (7.0 to < 8.0)

Share Role Details

Return to job listings