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What is an information systems consultant and how to become one

Updated January 8, 2025
4 min read
Quoted experts
Robin Cormier,
Dr. Pauline Mosley

These professionals are external analysts hired by organizations to evaluate their IT systems and infrastructure to help them meet their business objectives. Information Systems Consultant provides strategic guidance on technology and IT infrastructure. This covers selection, procurement, user training, and feedback. They interact with prospective clients to determine requirements and define the scope of the project. After this, they plan the timeline and resources needed for the project. Also, they define software, hardware, and network requirements, and they develop and implement technological solutions to meet business needs.

To become an information systems consultant, you need a degree in computer science, information systems, or a related discipline. Some employers prefer an MBA. You must be proficient in database languages. Core skills you need include problem-solving, interpersonal, organization, presentation, time management, and communication skills. Having relevant certifications such as PMP is a plus. These experts are paid an average income of $64,820 yearly. It ranges from $29,000 to $147,000.

What general advice would you give to an information systems consultant?

Robin Cormier

Assistant Professor, Montana State University - Billings

While college graduates begin to launch their careers, they also face uncertainty about job opportunities. This can be a daunting time in their life. First and foremost, they should be proud of their achievements. There are many steps they can take to prepare for a future career, such as developing a network and building a strong resume. However, in my opinion, the most important advice I would offer new graduates is to pursue their passion. When you are passionate about your career, your life is more fulfilling, and you are more determined to achieve success. Passion shows through how you communicate, develop working relationships, and your level of career investment.
ScoreInformation Systems ConsultantUS Average
Salary
7.5

Avg. Salary $97,215

Avg. Salary $59,228

Stability level
5.3

Growth rate 9%

Growth rate 0.3%

Diversity
5.5
Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 0.19%

Asian 14.61%

Black or African American 10.16%

Hispanic or Latino 10.94%

Unknown 5.00%

White 59.09%

Gender

female 26.04%

male 73.96%

Age - 42
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 - 42
Stress level
5.3

Stress level is manageable

7.1 - high

Complexity level
8.3

Complexity level is challenging

7 - challenging

Work life balance
4.8

Work life balance is fair

6.4 - fair

Information systems consultant career paths

Key steps to become an information systems consultant

  1. Explore information systems consultant education requirements

    Most common information systems consultant degrees

    Bachelor's

    65.5 %

    Master's

    15.8 %

    Associate

    14.0 %
  2. Start to develop specific information systems consultant skills

    SkillsPercentages
    Data Analysis35.44%
    Cycle Management14.36%
    Business Process12.58%
    Project Management9.79%
    Data Warehouse2.25%
  3. Complete relevant information systems consultant training and internships

    Accountants spend an average of 6-12 months on post-employment, on-the-job training. New information systems consultants 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 systems consultant based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real information systems consultant resumes.
  4. Research information systems consultant duties and responsibilities

    • Create proposals and lead a team of 15 consultants to train and coach new ERP team members.
    • Implement GE Centricity EMR software on a VMware virtual server network and manage all hardware and software.
    • Manage and complete VMWare migration project with iSLA savings of $258K in '08 and $941K in '09.
    • Collaborate with customer on defect prioritization and manage resource allocation during system test and UAT.
  5. Prepare your information systems consultant resume

    When your background is strong enough, you can start writing your information systems consultant 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 systems consultant 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 systems consultant resume templates

    Build a professional information systems consultant 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 systems consultant resume.
    Information Systems Consultant Resume
    Information Systems Consultant Resume
    Information Systems Consultant Resume
    Information Systems Consultant Resume
    Information Systems Consultant Resume
    Information Systems Consultant Resume
    Information Systems Consultant Resume
    Information Systems Consultant Resume
    Information Systems Consultant Resume
  6. Apply for information systems consultant jobs

    Now it's time to start searching for an information systems consultant job. Consider the tips below for a successful job search:

    1. Browse job boards for relevant postings
    2. Consult your professional network
    3. Reach out to companies you're interested in working for directly
    4. Watch out for job scams

How did you land your first information systems consultant job

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Average information systems consultant salary

The average information systems consultant salary in the United States is $97,215 per year or $47 per hour. Information systems consultant salaries range between $74,000 and $126,000 per year.

Average information systems consultant salary
$97,215 Yearly
$46.74 hourly

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How do information systems consultants rate their job?

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Information systems consultant reviews

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A zippia user wrote a review on Aug 2020
Pros

As it seeks to solve problems in innovative way

Cons

It needs more patience to apply the true solution and satisfy your client


profile
A zippia user wrote a review on Aug 2020
Cons

Marketing during and between projects. Work is not always steady.


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Updated January 8, 2025

Zippia Research Team
Zippia Team

Editorial Staff

The Zippia Research Team has spent countless hours reviewing resumes, job postings, and government data to determine what goes into getting a job in each phase of life. Professional writers and data scientists comprise the Zippia Research Team.

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