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IT and Engineering > Program Analyst

Salary National Average

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71080.0000 84590.0000 106650.0000

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Short Description:

Analyze user specifications and requirements. Encode, test, debug, and document programs on moderately complex projects. May assist with large, complex projects.

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)

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