What is a Project Analyst?

An analyst can work in many different industries. So if you're looking for a position with endless job possibilities, then you've come to the right place. Who knows, the job might even come with a sweet salary, but you'll have to keep reading to find out.

Typically, an analyst will work in an office. They'll analyze data and make informed decisions based on the information they collect. An analyst might have a financial background or they might be a management analyst. Maybe you want to be a market research analyst or a news analyst. Either way, you've got to be good at making decisions.

The majority of analysts work a full-time position of 40 hours a week. Although, it isn't unheard of for analysts to work more than that. Did someone say overtime?

A management analyst, or management consultant, works with an organization's management teams to improve various aspects of the business. Management consultants analyze operations and identify ways to increase efficiency and profit. Their main duty is collecting data about how a company works and recommending changes to decrease costs and boost revenue.

As a management analyst, you'll often collaborate with clients, vendors, employees, and executives to identify the strengths and weaknesses of the company. You'll typically work in an office setting during regular business hours. However, frequent travel may be required to meet clients and attend conferences. Your suggestions for organizational changes for staying competitive in the market may be presented in written reports or oral presentations.

To work in the field of management analysis, you'll usually need a bachelor's degree, preferably in business, economics, political science, or a related field. Earning a master's degree in business administration (MBA) or becoming a certified management consultant may improve your job prospects. To be successful, you must have excellent analytical and organizational skills and the ability to understand and implement constructive business strategies and principles. Working as a management analyst, you may earn a median annual salary of $76,000 along with a benefits package of health and life insurance, a retirement plan, vacation or sick leave, and bonuses for outstanding performance. You may also enjoy a robust job outlook. According to BLS, employment growth for management analysts is projected to increase by 14 percent over the next decade, much faster than the average for all occupations.

A Program Analyst manages and evaluates a company's programs, systems, and policies, and gives recommendations for improvements. He/She researches, compiles, and analyzes complex data to identify trends and develop reports. He/She also monitors program metrics and performance, identifies issues, and resolves them. Additionally, he/she helps program managers with the development of budgets and schedules. Also, he/she advises them on planning, testing, and implementing new programs or systems. Program analysts can work in accounting companies, health care, manufacturing, and more.

Most employers demand that for a bachelor's degree in computer science or any related field with at least two years of relevant work experience. Certifications like Information Technology Infrastructure Library (ITIL) certification or Professional in Business Analysis (PMI-BA) certification can also be beneficial. The skillset for this job includes communication, analytical, technical writing, organization, interpersonal, problem-solving, project management, presentation, and teamwork skills. Program analysts make about $76,276 annually. This ranges from $52,000 to $111,000.