As a business intelligence analyst, you help organizations collect and process intelligence and information that helps them stay competitive.
You’re an expert at using IT to improve your employer's data analytics and to collect the most current data for your clients or employers. You may also be called upon to build new programs or improve existing ones. Once you've designed a new program, you’ll most likely test it to ensure it works effectively and is sufficiently easy for your colleagues to use as well.
Most business intelligence specialist jobs will require you to work in an office, full-time. You will likely work 35-45 hours, depending on the needs of your employer and ongoing projects. Though business intelligence jobs are found in a variety of verticals, you may also opt to work as a consultant, either independently or for a firm. As a specialist in your field, you may find yourself leading projects and managing a team. You will most likely work under the top level management in your company's IT department.
Business intelligence analysts are in high demand in most major U.S. markets. Starting business intelligence analyst salaries in this profession are dependent on your location, skill level and training. As with most jobs, your earning potential rises steeply with your level of experience. With five-plus years of experience, business intelligence analyst salaries can climb into the low six-figure range in the right market.
Average salaries for business intelligence jobs are highest in New York, California, Texas and Florida . The market in Illinois and Georgia is slightly softer, but experienced specialists are still in demand.
Your role is a critical element in your company’s strategic plan. You’re responsible for the collection of business intelligence. Your company relies on you to assess their growth and direction. You identify and resolve technical problems that might impede data collection, often working closely with application designers to improve functionality or customize programs based on specific criteria. Tasks throughout your workday will include things like:
Although the specifications of your job may change depending on where you work, business intelligence analysts are in demand. Your employer relies on your expertise to guide key business decisions. Your skill and experience can prove invaluable in helping your company meet (or exceed) sales and growth objectives.
For this reason, business intelligence analysts are needed in a variety of different verticals including banking and finance, marketing, technology, healthcare and many others. Many business intelligence specialists also opt to work as consultants, either independently or with a firm.
To execute your role effectively, it’s imperative that you have extensive program knowledge and that you regularly refresh and update your skills. In this way, you’re well positioned to provide guidance, address and fix technical problems and optimize processes. Some skills that you have include:
Technology and business intelligence have become critical to success. Business intelligence analysts who are educated, experienced and committed to ongoing professional development have all the tools to thrive. The future is bright if you're looking for a business intelligence analyst job. Future possibilities for business intelligence analysts include roles such as big data specialists or management roles in your company's IT department or with a tech company.
Another option for business intelligence analysts is to become a consultant. You may choose to work as part of a consulting firm that caters to other businesses, or strike out on your own.
If you’re looking for a business intelligence analyst job, Randstad can show you the way to a bright future. Start your business intelligence job search today.