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The differences between computer systems 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 systems 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 $82,655 average annual salary of a computer systems analyst.
The top three skills for a computer systems analyst include computer system, database and C++. The most important skills for a computer engineer are python, software development, and java.
| Computer Systems Analyst | Computer Engineer | |
| Yearly salary | $82,655 | $96,805 |
| Hourly rate | $39.74 | $46.54 |
| Growth rate | 9% | 10% |
| Number of jobs | 118,439 | 126,709 |
| Job satisfaction | - | - |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 59% | Bachelor's Degree, 66% |
| Average age | 43 | 42 |
| Years of experience | 6 | 2 |
A computer systems analyst is responsible for creating and designing computer applications and network solutions to support business functions and requirements. Computer systems analysts evaluate the systems' efficiency and performance to perform configuration and improve infrastructure for smooth navigation and controls. They also assist end-users in resolving network issues, perform troubleshooting, and write resolution reports for reference and failure prevention. A computer systems analyst must have excellent technical and computer skills, especially in installing new upgrades and developing features for existing applications.
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 systems analysts and computer engineers have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Computer Systems Analyst | Computer Engineer | |
| Average salary | $82,655 | $96,805 |
| Salary range | Between $60,000 And $112,000 | Between $70,000 And $132,000 |
| Highest paying City | San Francisco, CA | San Francisco, CA |
| Highest paying state | California | California |
| Best paying company | Mayo Clinic | Waymo |
| Best paying industry | Professional | Finance |
There are a few differences between a computer systems analyst and a computer engineer in terms of educational background:
| Computer Systems Analyst | Computer Engineer | |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 59% | Bachelor's Degree, 66% |
| Most common major | Computer Science | Computer Engineering |
| Most common college | Stanford University | Harvard University |
Here are the differences between computer systems analysts' and computer engineers' demographics:
| Computer Systems Analyst | Computer Engineer | |
| Average age | 43 | 42 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 76.7% Female, 23.3% | Male, 86.3% Female, 13.7% |
| Race ratio | Black or African American, 10.2% Unknown, 5.0% Hispanic or Latino, 10.9% 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% |