Job Analyst

What is a Job Analyst?

A Job Analyst, also known as an Occupational Analyst, is responsible for studying and collecting information about jobs to write job descriptions. They analyze job responsibilities, requirements, and performance metrics to categorize and define roles within an organization.

Your test results

?

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Job Analyst.

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

How much does a Job Analyst earn

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, typical income (in USD) is...

Bottom 10%Bottom 25%Median (average)Top 25%Top 10%
$46K
per year
$57K
per year
$74K
per year
$98K
per year
$127K
per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $26K above the national average.

What does a Job Analyst do?

Work environment

Job Analysts typically work in office settings within the human resources department of organizations. They often collaborate with HR personnel and department managers, and their work may involve a mix of desk-based research and interacting with employees to gather job information.

Quick task list

  • Collects and analyzes job information through interviews, surveys, and observation.
  • Writes and revises job descriptions.
  • Consults with HR and management to categorize and classify positions.
  • Advises on job design, employee evaluations, and organizational structure.
  • Ensures job descriptions comply with legal and regulatory standards.

Areas of specialization

  • Compensation Analysis: Focusing on job valuation and designing compensation packages.
  • Performance Evaluation: Developing criteria and tools for employee performance assessment.
  • HR Compliance: Ensuring job descriptions meet legal and regulatory requirements.
  • Organizational Development: Focusing on aligning job roles with organizational goals and strategy.
  • Talent Management: Involving in workforce planning and talent identification.

Description

Job Analysis is a crucial function in human resources, providing a foundation for many HR activities. Analysts must understand a job's essential functions and requirements to develop accurate job descriptions. This role requires excellent analytical skills, as it involves gathering and interpreting complex information to make recommendations on job design, compensation, and other HR practices.

Communication skills are also vital, as Job Analysts often interact with various departments to understand and define roles. They play a key role in ensuring that an organization's staffing needs are clearly identified and met, and that employees understand their roles and expectations.

The work of a Job Analyst is critical in shaping an organization's workforce structure. By ensuring clarity in job roles and responsibilities, they contribute to employee satisfaction and organizational efficiency. Their analysis helps in identifying gaps in the workforce, guiding training needs, and supporting strategic planning.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

You might make a good Job Analyst if you are...

Pros:

  • Intellectual challenge and varied work.
  • Opportunity to influence organizational structure and effectiveness.
  • High demand in diverse industries.

Cons:

  • Can be meticulous and require dealing with complex information.
  • May involve repetitive tasks and extensive documentation.
  • Requires keeping up with changing employment laws and standards.

How to become a Job Analyst

Typical education

A bachelor's degree in human resources, business administration, psychology, or a related field is typically required, which amounts to about 4 years of post-secondary education.

High school preparation

Courses:

  • Business Studies for a basic understanding of organizational structures.
  • Psychology to understand human behavior in the workplace.
  • English and Communication to develop writing and interpersonal skills.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

  • Participating in leadership roles in clubs or teams.
  • Volunteering in community organizations to understand different roles.
  • Engaging in debate or public speaking clubs to enhance communication skills.

Preparation after high school

  • Obtain a bachelor's degree in human resources, business, or a related field.
  • Consider internships in HR to gain practical experience.
  • Pursuing certifications like Professional in Human Resources (PHR) can be beneficial.

More resources