While more and more people are becoming technically savvy with computers, computer experts are still needed to analyze and explain the more advanced aspects of computers. Infrastructure analysts are consultants who work directly for companies or work on a freelance basis. They are mostly responsible for diagnosing problems in computer infrastructure rather directly through the computer or through remote access.

Function

In some cases, the infrastructure analyst serves a supervisory role within the organization that she is a part of and provides training to new analysts, while in other cases the upper management delegates tasks to the infrastructure analyst that are too difficult for the general staff to handle. Through the process of solving technical problems, the infrastructure analyst then creates procedures that other technical workers can perform so that the infrastructure analyst does not have to be consulted again, according to the Michigan Civil Service Commission. Finally, whenever there is a technical problem that cannot be solved, the infrastructure analyst must be available to provide consultation.

Conditions

The typical environment of an infrastructure analyst is either in an office space or at home, since much of the work of an infrastructure analyst can be done using remote access software that allows the analyst to directly access another computer from his computer. These analysts usually work 40 hours a week, though they might work longer hours during emergencies such as server crashes, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Skills

The educational background of an infrastructure analyst is usually a bachelor’s degree in computer science or information science. The most important qualification that the infrastructure analyst must have is that he must have thorough knowledge of the type of infrastructure that the company has, according to MCSC. Since the infrastructure analysts understand their areas of expertise more than anyone, they must be able to function independently. The problem solving and technical skills of the infrastructure analyst must be fantastic, since problem solving is the primary duty of the infrastructure analyst. Oral and written communication skills are essential because infrastructure analysts must mentor and explain complicated topics to others.

Outlook

Between 2012 and 2022, the positions for computer network administrators, such as infrastructure analysts, is expected to grow by 25 percent, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. These analysts can enjoy more work because businesses are continually using more and more computer databases and software.

Earnings

The average annual salary for infrastructure analysts and other database administrators in 2020 was $93,730, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salaries ranged from $80,070 in the insurance carrier work setting to $113,980 on securities and exchange commission jobs.

Computer Systems Analysts salary

• Top 10% Annual Salary: More than $152,060 ($73.11/hour)
• Median Annual Salary: $93,730 ($45.06/hour)
• Bottom 10% Annual Salary: Less than $56,510 ($27.17/hour)