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Systems analyst: Salary and conditions

• Average graduate trainee starting salary in IT and telecoms: £25,500 (salary data from Association of Graduate Recruiters (AGR) winter survey 2007).
• Range of typical salaries at senior level/with experience (e.g. after 10-15 years in the role): approximately £40,000 - £58,000 (salary data collected May 08).
• Salaries are higher in some sectors, especially the financial sector, and in London, the South East and the Midlands, where salaries for project management roles may top £80,000. Analysts with good business skills who move into more strategic business development roles will also enjoy higher pay.
• Working hours are typically nine to five, with extra hours, especially as deadlines approach. In the financial sector and in consultancy, longer working hours may be the norm.
• You would normally be office-based but much of your time would be spent outside the department, particularly in the early stages of a project, when you might work in a variety of offices or business areas.
• Flexible working patterns and some homeworking may be possible. It is also common for organisations to contract out systems/business analysis and IT development work to firms of IT consultants.
• Many experienced analysts choose to set up as independent consultants.
• Jobs are available in many large towns and cities in the UK, but most large employers are based in London and the south east of England. Client sites are throughout the UK, although analysts often pursue their careers across national boundaries.
• Only 18% of people working in IT and telecoms occupations are women, as compared with 47% in the overall UK workforce. However, women are being actively encouraged to consider a career in IT (see BCS Women ).
• The pace of work to meet client deadlines and the high level of responsibility may be stressful.
• Dress code is generally relaxed but may be formal when visiting clients.
• Work usually takes place in a project team and is often based on clients' premises.
• You will probably spend some time working away from home with possible overnight stays. Overseas travel may be required, especially if the company has interests and clients outside the UK.

AGCAS

Written by Laura Hooke, AGCAS

Last updated:

June 2008

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