How to become a Systems Analyst in Hong Kong
As an increasing number of companies digitise, tech remains one of the sectors in Hong Kong that is in constant need of talent – despite the otherwise intensely competitive job market. Among these in-demand tech roles are Systems Analysts – people who analyse how efficiently the IT ecosystem fits with the needs of the organisation. This includes anticipating the need for new or updated systems, the implementation of any new systems, and the ongoing monitoring of their efficacy.
Here’s a guide to what you should know if you’re considering becoming a Systems Analyst in Hong Kong.
Roles and responsibilities of a Systems Analyst
Since this role is essential to the overall tech ecosystem of the organisation – Systems Analysts have a widespread list of roles and responsibilities. These may include the following:
- Maintaining and upgrading existing systems within the organisation
- Designing new systems and frameworks to suit the organisation’s needs, as well as creating manuals to accompany these new systems and frameworks
- Running training sessions and workshops on updated systems and frameworks
- Troubleshooting technical issues while collaborating with Business Analysts, Project Leads, and the IT team to resolve issues
- Risk planning and mitigation
- Reviewing current systems and generating reports on performance and areas of improvement
Qualifications and skills required by Systems Analysts
Although some candidates can be self-taught or may have trained on the job, most ideal candidates will have an advanced education degree in IT, Computer Science, and Business Administration.
How to be a Systems Analyst requires tech skills, including a proficiency in programming languages such as Java, C++, and Python, as well as cybersecurity expertise to protect against malware and hacks.
Additional skills required by Systems Analysts include:
- Analytical skills. Systems Analysts must be able to identify trends in tech and make recommendations to improve the organisation’s current system.
- Critical thinking and problem solving skills. The ability to identify problems, and potential problems and their solutions is key in a Systems Analyst role.
- Communication skills. Systems Analysts need to be able to collaborate effectively with Business Analysts, Project Leads, and the IT team to resolve issues as well as communicate the organisation’s system requirements with stakeholders for approval.
- Time management skills and the ability to work under tight deadlines.
Do Systems Analysts work remotely?
Although this largely varies from organisation to organisation, sometimes the roles and responsibilities of Systems Analysts are transferable to a flexible work setting. However, it’s important to note that System Analysts are frequently required to work outside standard office hours to oversee upgrades and fixes, to allow for a consistent and uninterrupted tech ecosystem.
Related: How to ask for flexible working hours during an interview
Whom do Systems Analysts report to?
Systems Analysts typically report to tech department managers and supervisors, but are also accountable to the organisation’s stakeholders. Since this role is an important link between an organisation’s business needs and its end-users, they communicate business requirements with stakeholders, as well as create tech-based solutions for these needs.
Related: Why aren’t there more women in tech? – why closing the gap matters
How much are Systems Analysts paid?
Salaries for Systems Analysts – like their roles and responsibilities – are varied depending on the tech systems and framework needs of an organisation. Additionally, experience and location impact System Analyst salaries, too. To find the most up to date Systems Analyst salaries, check out our Hong Kong Salary Guide.
What do recruiters look for in Systems Analysts?
An underrated attribute for a Systems Analyst is creativity. While this overlaps with critical thinking and problem solving, being a good Systems Analysts means the most innovative solutions are creative too – especially if you’re dealing with tight budgets and deadlines.
Additionally, apart from a relevant bachelor’s degree (see above) and demonstrable on-the-job experience, ideal candidates have an advanced degree too. MBAs and Masters of Science in Cyber Security or Software Development give candidates an added advantage in the long term – especially when it comes to promotions down the line.
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