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The differences between computer analysts and computer engineers can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. While it typically takes 4-6 years to become a computer analyst, becoming a computer engineer takes usually requires 1-2 years. Additionally, a computer engineer has an average salary of $96,805, which is higher than the $75,852 average annual salary of a computer analyst.
The top three skills for a computer analyst include computer system, troubleshoot and C++. The most important skills for a computer engineer are python, software development, and java.
| Computer Analyst | Computer Engineer | |
| Yearly salary | $75,852 | $96,805 |
| Hourly rate | $36.47 | $46.54 |
| Growth rate | 9% | 10% |
| Number of jobs | 75,369 | 126,709 |
| Job satisfaction | - | - |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 58% | Bachelor's Degree, 66% |
| Average age | 43 | 42 |
| Years of experience | 6 | 2 |
A computer analyst is responsible for generating technical solutions to improve operational efficiency and processes. Computer analysts create models for system applications and perform upgrades on software and hardware networks to boost optimization. They also develop strategic methods to enhance the performance of existing systems and identify inconsistencies for immediate resolution. A computer analyst must have excellent communication and technical skills, especially in managing the security of computer data and setting the configuration and accessibility of networks for authorized users.
A computer engineer is someone who examines, designs, and manages computer hardware and software systems. He/She or she helps in solving issues or any concerns that may occur with the computer's hardware and software as well as assists in the innovation of computer technology. Computer engineers are responsible for computer hardware design, development, research, and test computer systems. They examine components like circuit boards, processors, memory devices, routers, and networks. While, those working with the computer software are in charge of the development, design, and administration of software programs.
Computer analysts and computer engineers have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Computer Analyst | Computer Engineer | |
| Average salary | $75,852 | $96,805 |
| Salary range | Between $57,000 And $99,000 | Between $70,000 And $132,000 |
| Highest paying City | San Francisco, CA | San Francisco, CA |
| Highest paying state | Washington | California |
| Best paying company | Citi | Waymo |
| Best paying industry | Technology | Finance |
There are a few differences between a computer analyst and a computer engineer in terms of educational background:
| Computer Analyst | Computer Engineer | |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 58% | Bachelor's Degree, 66% |
| Most common major | Computer Science | Computer Engineering |
| Most common college | Stanford University | Harvard University |
Here are the differences between computer analysts' and computer engineers' demographics:
| Computer Analyst | Computer Engineer | |
| Average age | 43 | 42 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 71.4% Female, 28.6% | Male, 86.3% Female, 13.7% |
| Race ratio | Black or African American, 10.2% Unknown, 5.0% Hispanic or Latino, 11.0% Asian, 14.6% White, 59.1% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.2% | Black or African American, 10.7% Unknown, 5.3% Hispanic or Latino, 15.0% Asian, 15.0% White, 53.5% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.4% |
| LGBT Percentage | 8% | 11% |