How much does a systems analyst make?

In the U.S., pay tends to vary with experience and education, location, and industry; the BLS says pay differs across industries and areas. A specialist in financial or engineering systems may also earn differently from a generalist.

Analyze science, engineering, business, and other data processing problems to develop and implement solutions to complex applications problems, system administration issues, or network concerns. Perform systems management and integration functions, improve existing computer systems, and review computer system capabilities, workflow, and schedule limitations. May analyze or recommend commercially available software.

What's a typical day like?

They talk with staff and managers to find out what a computer system needs, then sketch diagrams for programmers. They test the updated system, fix problems, and may teach coworkers how to use it.

Most U.S. systems analysts earn a bachelor’s in computer science or information systems; some employers accept business or liberal-arts degrees plus tech skills. Many start after college, often in their early 20s, though apprenticeships are another route.

Usually a bachelor's degree (preparation level 4 of 5)

Good for people who like figuring things out and keeping things organized.

Systems analysts may write code, too; BLS says those who focus on coding and debugging can be called “programmer analysts.”

The US figure is the median and the Japan figure is the average, so it's not a perfect comparison. Prices differ too.