How To Become An Information Specialist: What It Is and Career Path

What is an information specialist and how to become one

Updated January 8, 2025

4 min read

Information specialists analyze and manage an organization's information databases which include filling, record-keeping, or stocktaking systems and information distribution. They identify data sources and collect information using surveying and research. Furthermore, they disseminate information on data processes and procedures to staff, clients, and shareholders. The specialists help optimize the organization's processes, develop and implement data storage methods, and help with the digitization of files. Asides from that, they work with the market research team to determine project needs.

Most information specialists have at least a bachelor's degree in computer science, information systems, or a related field. They also have at least two years of experience in a similar role and they have extensive knowledge of data processes and information systems. Likewise, they are familiar with programming languages. Key skills include communication, attention to detail, multitasking, interpersonal, and research skills. Their salary ranges between $33,000 and $105,000 with an average of $58,967 per year.

ScoreInformation SpecialistUS Average

Salary

5.4

Avg. Salary $69,502

Avg. Salary $59,228

Stability level

6.7

Growth rate 10%

Growth rate 0.3%

Diversity

6.5

Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 0.41%

Asian 10.57%

Black or African American 11.92%

Hispanic or Latino 15.51%

Unknown 5.33%

White 56.25%

Gender

female 66.14%

male 33.86%

Age - 41

Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 3.00%

Asian 7.00%

Black or African American 14.00%

Hispanic or Latino 19.00%

White 57.00%

Gender

female 47.00%

male 53.00%

Age - 41

Stress level

6.7

Stress level is high

7.1 - high

Complexity level

6.5

Complexity level is challenging

7 - challenging

Work life balance

7.4

Work life balance is good

6.4 - fair

Key steps to become an information specialist

Explore information specialist education requirements

Most common information specialist degrees

Bachelor's

59.5 %

Associate

17.1 %

Master's

9.1 %

Start to develop specific information specialist skills

Skills	Percentages
Patients	17.21%
Data Entry	14.56%
Customer Service	8.81%
FOIA	8.03%
Management System	5.29%

Complete relevant information specialist training and internships

Accountants spend an average of 3-6 months on post-employment, on-the-job training. New information specialists learn the skills and techniques required for their job and employer during this time. The chart below shows how long it takes to gain competency as an information specialist based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real information specialist resumes.

Gain additional information specialist certifications

Information specialist certifications can show employers you have a baseline of knowledge expected for the position. Certifications can also make you a more competitive candidate. Even if employers don't require a specific information specialist certification, having one may help you stand out relative to other applicants.

The most common certifications for information specialists include Certified Billing and Coding Specialist (CBCS) and Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT).

More About Certifications

Research information specialist duties and responsibilities

Manage windows patch upgrades and provide software pushes using Microsoft SCCM.
Manage university and small business research grants and evaluate vendor RFP responses.
Manage USAID OTI grants database to track and monitor implementation of program activities.
Manage network resources, including video conferences, printers, servers, PCs, and switches.

Prepare your information specialist resume

When your background is strong enough, you can start writing your information specialist resume.

You can use Zippia's AI resume builder to make the resume writing process easier while also making sure that you include key information that hiring managers expect to see on an information specialist resume. You'll find resume tips and examples of skills, responsibilities, and summaries, all provided by Zippi, your career sidekick.

Choose from 10+ customizable information specialist resume templates

Build a professional information specialist resume in minutes. Browse through our resume examples to identify the best way to word your resume. Then choose from 10+ resume templates to create your information specialist resume.