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Job outlook for consultants, systems analyst in the United States
Consultant, systems analyst job growth summary. After extensive research, interviews, and analysis, Zippia's data science team found that:
The projected consultant, systems analyst job growth rate is 9% from 2018-2028.
About 56,000 new jobs for consultants, systems analyst are projected over the next decade.
Consultant, systems analyst salaries have increased 8% for consultants, systems analyst in the last 5 years.
There are over 76,370 consultants, systems analyst currently employed in the United States.
There are 150,355 active consultant, systems analyst job openings in the US.
The average consultant, systems analyst salary is $82,735.
Are consultant, systems analyst jobs in demand?
Consultant, systems analyst job and salary trends over time
Consultant, systems analyst jobs over time
Consultant, systems analyst job growth rate over time
| Year | # of jobs | % of population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 76,370 | 0.02% |
| 2020 | 109,728 | 0.03% |
| 2019 | 51,726 | 0.02% |
| 2018 | 91,261 | 0.03% |
| 2017 | 90,328 | 0.03% |
Average consultant, systems analyst salary over time
Consultant, systems analyst salary by year
| Year | Avg. salary | Hourly rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $82,735 | $39.78 | +3.4% |
| 2024 | $80,009 | $38.47 | +2.3% |
| 2023 | $78,197 | $37.59 | +0.5% |
| 2022 | $77,783 | $37.40 | +1.2% |
| 2021 | $76,858 | $36.95 | +1.7% |
Consultant, systems analyst jobs by state
Most common states for consultants, systems analyst
| Rank | State | Population | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 494 | 71% |
| 2 | South Dakota | 869,666 | 282 | 32% |
| 3 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 395 | 29% |
| 4 | Vermont | 623,657 | 179 | 29% |
| 5 | Delaware | 961,939 | 260 | 27% |
| 6 | North Dakota | 755,393 | 203 | 27% |
| 7 | Rhode Island | 1,059,639 | 274 | 26% |
| 8 | Alaska | 739,795 | 196 | 26% |
| 9 | Minnesota | 5,576,606 | 1,392 | 25% |
| 10 | Oregon | 4,142,776 | 969 | 23% |
| 11 | Connecticut | 3,588,184 | 772 | 22% |
| 12 | Nebraska | 1,920,076 | 417 | 22% |
| 13 | Wyoming | 579,315 | 127 | 22% |
| 14 | North Carolina | 10,273,419 | 2,114 | 21% |
| 15 | Massachusetts | 6,859,819 | 1,462 | 21% |
| 16 | Arizona | 7,016,270 | 1,457 | 21% |
| 17 | Montana | 1,050,493 | 225 | 21% |
| 18 | New Jersey | 9,005,644 | 1,781 | 20% |
| 19 | Washington | 7,405,743 | 1,498 | 20% |
| 20 | New Mexico | 2,088,070 | 427 | 20% |
Most common cities for consultants, systems analyst
| Rank | City | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl | Avg. salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Annapolis | 2 | 5% | $87,242 |
| 2 | Eden Prairie | 1 | 2% | $75,014 |
| 3 | Columbus | 1 | 1% | $79,687 |
| 4 | Hartford | 1 | 1% | $85,053 |
| 5 | Lansing | 1 | 1% | $79,980 |
| 6 | Little Rock | 1 | 1% | $76,359 |
| 7 | Chicago | 7 | 0% | $73,250 |
| 8 | Atlanta | 2 | 0% | $80,165 |
| 9 | Boston | 2 | 0% | $84,049 |
| 10 | Detroit | 2 | 0% | $80,724 |
| 11 | Los Angeles | 2 | 0% | $97,403 |
| 12 | Sacramento | 2 | 0% | $109,726 |
| 13 | Arlington | 1 | 0% | $80,149 |
| 14 | Denver | 1 | 0% | $63,492 |
| 15 | Indianapolis | 1 | 0% | $86,914 |
| 16 | Miami | 1 | 0% | $81,514 |
| 17 | Minneapolis | 1 | 0% | $75,223 |
Consultant, Systems Analyst job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of consultant, systems analyst experts
Widener University
SUNY College at Geneseo
University of Maine
Western Kentucky University
Davidson College
University of Missouri - Columbia
The University of the South
Framingham State University
Suffolk University
Ashford University
University of Connecticut
Duke University
What Consultant, Systems Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Swagata Banerjee PhD: Digital literacy: As technology continues to evolve, proficiency in digital tools and platforms will become increasingly essential. Adaptability: The ability to quickly learn new skills and adapt to changing circumstances will be crucial in a rapidly evolving industry landscape. Data literacy: Understanding and analyzing data will become more important for making informed decisions and optimizing strategies. Interdisciplinary skills: The ability to work across different disciplines and collaborate effectively with diverse teams will be highly valued. Emotional intelligence: Soft skills such as empathy, communication, and teamwork will continue to be in demand as workplaces become more interconnected and dynamic.
What will help Consultants, Systems Analyst increase their earning potential?
David Hart: This field has become more valuable ever since the supply chain interruption due to Covid. The analyst is challenged every day with supply chain issues and deployment of the right resources to their prospective areas. Every day can be a new challenge so the work is rarely mundane.
What Consultant, Systems Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Adam Roth: I recommend that students start by identifying a specific skill in demand within your field, such as data analysis or social media marketing, and focus on developing expertise in that area. Research salary ranges and living costs in particular areas where you’re interested in working to ensure your compensation aligns with the local market. Always negotiate a salary and consider other aspects of the offer, such as funds for continuing education, technology and more. Continuing to network and establish demand for your services is essential; attend industry events, join professional associations, and engage with professionals in your field. Never miss an opportunity to reach out to and check in with your professional contacts. Pursue additional learning opportunities and education, such as certifications or advanced degrees, to provide a competitive advantage and increase your earning potential over time.
What general advice would you give to a Consultant, Systems Analyst?
Bradley Andrew Ph.D.: So-called soft skills are still in demand by employers, based on recent surveys, because a smaller percentage of graduates possess them. These include:
Showing up and on time;
Having a strong work ethic;
Critical thinking skills
Social skills, including the ability to get along well with people, motivate and encourage them, and leadership skills. Also be able to schmooze with clients over dinner or drinks, or just in your office. A personal touch and connection is something software can’t provide.
Creativity—Apple products, for example, appeal to many people because of their combination of form and function.
The ability to work AI in order to increase one’s productivity will become more important over the next 5 years.
What will help Consultants, Systems Analyst increase their earning potential?
Bradley Andrew Ph.D.: Once you have your first job, ask about or determine the 20% of your supervisor’s job that they hate and start doing that for them. They will love you for it and it will quickly get you recognition. You’ll also be well on your way to learning your boss’s job. Continue doing this as you progress in your career (Kudos to Theo Epstein, former GM for the Red Sox, for this recommendation)
No matter the task you’re given, do it to the absolute best of your abilities. In the professional world, you may often be given menial tasks or tasks that you don’t believe are part of your job description. Doing those tasks to the absolute best of your ability leads to increased trust, recognition and responsibility and will put you “above class.” If asked, the coffee you bring should be the best your boss has ever had. You never know who’s watching.
Don’t expect credit and don’t ask for credit when things go right; give the credit to others.
Tongyang Yang Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of Economics and Business AnalyticsWidener University
Business/Commerce
What general advice would you give to a Consultant, Systems Analyst?
Tongyang Yang Ph.D.: There are many reasons that people like about being a business analyst, including reasons listed as follows: 1. Analytical Skills and Data Exploration: BAs often analyze data to understand trends and identify areas for improvement. Seeing a successful implementation and its positive impact can be very rewarding. 2. Problem-solving. BAs get to identify inefficiencies and propose solutions that can improve how a business operates. 3. Continuous learning. Business analysts may work on a range of projects and the field of business analysis may be constantly evolving, which required BAs to actively cultivate skills in new businesses. For example, the coming of the AI era requires BAs to master AI fundamentals and data fluency. 4. While some thrive on the problem-solving and communication aspects of a BA role, others may find them less appealing. Carefully consider your personality and preferences to see if this aligns with your career goals.
Jasmine Tang
SUNY College at Geneseo
Bilingual, Multilingual, And Multicultural Education
What Consultant, Systems Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Jasmine Tang: Be confident of their major/minor or the subject they like and do best of the field they like for themselves not for money or please their parents or fulfill the dream of others.
What Consultant, Systems Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Ryan LaRochelle Ph.D.: Don't be afraid to negotiate. The labor market is incredibly tight at the moment, so employees have more leverage than they've had in decades. Your starting salary and benefits package will be the baseline for any negotiation moving forward, so use the leverage you have now to get the best package you can get. Also, think carefully about how different compensation and benefit packages interact with other factors in the state or region where you're looking to work.
What general advice would you give to a Consultant, Systems Analyst?
Ron Ramsing Ph.D.: Relationships matter – continue to build your network by being a contributing member of a team while treating others well. Seek opportunities to actively learn and expand your knowledge and understanding of the industry. Mentors are important for providing guidance, feedback, and support. While it may take time, explore ways to connect with a mentor may it be formally or informally. Continue to hone your interpersonal skills through active listening, being conscientious, flexible, and willing to support and assist others. Be authentic!
What general advice would you give to a Consultant, Systems Analyst?
Oliver Keys Jr: The power of mentorships and networking early in your career will be beneficial in the long run. Also, understanding that professional skills can be half the battle. Showing up on time, dressing appropriately, and communicating effectively can be challenging for some students. Internships and externships are great for students to get technical and professional experience.
What Consultant, Systems Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Prof. Kim Jovanovich P.E.: Attached please see the responses to your interview questions. I hope this sheds some light on the questions you asked!
Katie Horowitz
Associate Professor of Gender & Sexuality StudiesDavidson College
Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, And Group Studies
What general advice would you give to a Consultant, Systems Analyst?
Katie Horowitz: With the rise of artificial intelligence, soft skills like interpersonal communication, conflict management, and critical thinking will become more important than ever before. These are assets that can’t be outsourced to AI, and they are fundamental to the work that Gender & Sexuality Studies majors do in college.
What Consultant, Systems Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Katie Horowitz: Some research shows that women and members of marginalized racial groups are less likely to negotiate their salaries than their white male counterparts. When you get a job offer, don’t forgo the opportunity to advocate for a higher salary.
What will help Consultants, Systems Analyst increase their earning potential?
Katie Horowitz: Don’t limit yourself. I’ve seen Gender & Sexuality Studies students land jobs in business consulting, nonprofit, medicine, law, and more. The beauty of this interdisciplinary field is that it intersects with virtually every sphere of human existence. You can bring your GSS skills to bear on any line of work that interests you.
What will help Consultants, Systems Analyst increase their earning potential?
Joseph Taylor: The role of a Business Analyst can vary greatly from company to company, and even from department to department, so it is very important to look at the details of a particular position that you are applying for. One common factor from all Business Analyst is that they are generally expected to make sense of data, and to be effective communicators that can apply insights to real-world problems.
Dr. Harvey James Jr., PhD
Professor of Agricultural and Applied EconomicsUniversity of Missouri - Columbia
Agricultural Business And Management
What Consultant, Systems Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Harvey James Jr., PhD: Keep skills current by taking advantage of all professional development opportunities that arise. For example, if you completed an undergraduate (i.e., B.A. or B.S. degree), then if your company will pay for or subsidize an MS degree, you should accept that offer. Showing a willingness and ability to learn and adapt is crucial in a workplace environment that is expected to change, especially when it is not clear today what that change will look like tomorrow.
What general advice would you give to a Consultant, Systems Analyst?
Erastus Ndinguri: A couple of ways to maximize your salary potential are;
Through first salary negotiation - By understanding the job market of your field, knowing what you can offer and preparing well for your salary negotiation you can positively maximize your first salary potential. This can affect your future earnings especially if you rise up the corporate ladder in the same organization.
Not settling, but continuing to learn- Learn a new skill that will help in building your resume. Network with colleagues in your organization and learn from them. Continuous learning and self-improvement create opportunities for higher earnings.
Embrace mentorships- Having a good seasoned colleague/mentor can open opportunities for higher earning. A mentor can help you prepare for a salary negotiation and also steer you to the right projects that lead to career advancements hence a higher salary.
Benjamin Campbell
Associate Professor and Extension SpecialistWhat general advice would you give to a Consultant, Systems Analyst?
Benjamin Campbell: Grades are important, but maximizing starting salary out of college does only depend on grade point average. Higher starting salaries do not start at graduation day. A student wanting a higher salary will excel in the classroom and take advantage of experiential learning opportunities starting as a freshman. A student should have several internships, be involved in leadership roles in clubs, and give back to the community.
What will help Consultants, Systems Analyst increase their earning potential?
Dr. Jodi Detjen: The advice that I typically give is to just start. The one key aspect though is to identify the industry. A recent WSJ article highlights that often students get stuck in an industry and find it hard to transition. I think exploration is critical. Students need to explore what types of jobs in their field they would enjoy. I counsel to do informational interviews with people in their network they admire or people who do work they think they would like. The key with informational interviews is to ask at the end who else should I speak with? Then the student not only builds their network but also learns different aspects of potential roles their degree can parlay into. One thing that challenges me is that often people in industry won't take an informational interview. This discourages students. Please - those in your career already - please give back to this generation. Another key piece of advice is to build relationships beyond one's comfort zone. This generation especially seems more intimidated and less willing to reach out to people. Once one starts in their job, the key is to build a network. I like Herminia Ibarra and Mark Hunter's three key networks: create an operational network that helps you get your job done well, a personal network that helps you interpersonally with work challenges, and a strategic network that looks beyond the current role into where you want to grow. And for those who struggle with networking - think of it more as relationship building. Everyone needs relationships at work. Exploration is so critical because without that, students will go into jobs they don't fully understand - and they might get stuck. But I also encourage them to be wide-ranging in their exploration. Too narrowly focusing on a particular industry can limit cool options. For example, biotech is rapidly growing and needs a lot of business people. BtoB companies such as Fastenal hire a lot but students tend to gravitate to BtoC companies with big brand names. Middle market companies hire a lot and again, students don't know the brand so don't apply.
What will help Consultants, Systems Analyst increase their earning potential?
Anil Agarwal: Some skills will always be in Demand - such as Interpersonal communications , Project Management , Learning different languages and having great listening skills. What new skills will be in demand : Social media, content and Digital marketing. Data Analytics and or Business Analytics. Cross cultural management , Leadership Skills. Financial Management . Getting an MBA, MFS ( Masters of Finance ) , MSM ( Masters in Analytical Marketing ) or a Masters in Economics or an MHA ( Masters in Health Sciences. The fields of Bio Technology are also exploding if that is your bent of mind.
Travis Grosser Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Management (@ UConn School of Business)University of Connecticut
Human Resources Management And Services
What Consultant, Systems Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Travis Grosser Ph.D.: The following are critical skills that will grow in importance in the coming years:
1. Innovative and Critical Thinking: The ability to think creatively and critically to solve complex problems will be highly valued, especially in a rapidly changing business landscape.
2. Emotional Intelligence: The ability to understand and manage one's own emotions, as well as empathize with others, will be crucial for successfully navigating a workplace where change, diversity, and collaboration will continue to increase.
3. Leadership and Change Management: Skills in leading teams, managing change, and inspiring innovation will be essential as businesses navigate through transitions and transformations.
4. Digital Literacy and Technological Proficiency: As technology continues to evolve rapidly, proficiency in digital tools and platforms will be crucial. Understanding emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, blockchain/Web3, and data analytics will be increasingly valuable.
Michael Munger
Director of Undergraduate Studies, Director, PPE ProgramDuke University
Department of Political Science
What skills stand out on Consultant, Systems Analyst resumes?
Michael Munger: Political science is an ancient career synergy, one that explores the connections between ethical considerations and engineering policy that works. Someone who majors in Political Science is able to make arguments about the questions that have plagued philosophers for thousands of years while using the latest data techniques to scrape online sources of information on social media. So political science instructors have to combine ethics, knowledge of esoteric procedures and laws, and statistics!
What soft skills should all Consultants, Systems Analyst possess?
Michael Munger: Working in groups. And that's hard to teach. The best teacher is experience. Often, students learn the most when their group fails or the other members don't pull their weight. The ability to work in unstructured environments and still achieve group success is a big part of many jobs. And Political Science teaches that.
What hard/technical skills are most important for Consultants, Systems Analyst?
Michael Munger: Political Science students should take at least one Computer Science class, be able to run a spreadsheet with skill, and be able to write crisp prose that gets to the point.
What skills will help Consultants, Systems Analyst earn the most?
Michael Munger: The ability to lead a group by example and to get other people to feel that they are part of something larger than themselves. At its best, Political Science is like an entire little liberal arts curriculum. It's the perfect preparation for leadership, either in government or the private sector!