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IT project analyst

data analyst (computing)
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Computing and ICT
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Career outlook for IT project analyst

Average UK salary

£57,200

Currently employed in Scotland

12,700

"LMI for All" supplies our salary and employment status information. "Oxford Economics" supplies job forecasts and employment figures. Due to COVID-19 the jobs market is constantly changing. Some of the information may not reflect the current situation.

What's it like?

If you’re naturally tech-minded and a skilled number cruncher, you could be a budding IT project analyst. In this role, you’ll research and design IT solutions that solve important business challenges. You’ll also spend your time deep-diving into data on a quest to find opportunities to improve existing systems or launch new ones. 

You’ll be responsible for applying the information you find – what should the new system look like? What knock-on effects would any changes have? Once you’ve answered these questions and more, you’ll create action plans and update processes.  

IT project analysts need to be good with numbers as you’ll need to use statistical models to inform your recommendations. You’ll also need to pass on your findings to decision-makers, so confident leadership skills and a talent for communication will serve you well. If you can motivate people to embrace change – even if those changes redefine an entire process or service – this might be the job for you. 

What you’ll do 

  • Conduct research to understand the project’s needs 
  • Analyse project data and write a report on your findings 
  • Create accurate forecasts, budgets and timescales so everyone involved in the project knows what to expect 
  • Prepare project proposals to make the case for introducing new systems 
  • Give progress reports to decision-makers 
  • Work with colleagues to implement new procedures

Working conditions

Hours

Most IT project analysts work a standard working week. You might be expected to work overtime during busy periods. Senior analysts can often work remotely, or on a more flexible schedule.

Environment

IT project analysts are usually based in an office. Depending on your industry, you may have to make occasional site visits.

UK employment status

Full-time

91%

Part-time

4%

Self employed

5%

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  • Building relationships
  • Working with technology
  • Problem solving
  • Researching
  • Attention to detail
  • Analysing

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Getting in

Entry requirements for courses can change. Always contact the college, university or training provider to check exactly what you'll need.

Foundation Apprenticeships

Choosing a Foundation Apprenticeship as one of your subjects in S5 and S6 can help you get a head start with this type of job.

You'll get an SCQF level 6 qualification (the same level as a Higher) plus valuable work placement experience and skills you can't learn in a classroom.

Interested? Find out what's on offer at your school on Apprenticeships.scot.

Qualifications

You can develop the necessary skills for this role through a variety of routes.

Many IT Project Analysts will have a degree in subjects, such as:

  • Business/project management
  • Management and information systems

Skills and qualifications in data analysis, computer science and business administration are of value, as well as strong business knowledge and communication skills. Some will also have postgraduate qualifications in project management.

Apprenticeships

You can gain skills and qualifications in the workplace through options such as:

Foundation Apprenticeships (FA’s) are chosen as one of your subjects in S5 and S6 but include hands-on learning at a local employer or college. They are the same level as a Higher.

You might want to consider an FA in areas such as:

  • Business Skills

Modern Apprenticeships (MA’s) mean you learn on the job. You get paid and work towards a qualification at the same time.

You might want to consider an MA in areas such as:

  • Project Management – Technical

Graduate Apprenticeships (GA’s) are designed for industry and you'll spend most of your time learning on the job but you'll also go to uni or college. You'll get a job, get paid and work towards a qualification at the same time.

You might want to consider a GA in areas such as:

  • IT: Management for Business

Useful subjects

Many colleges and universities will have required subjects that you must have for entry. They might also highlight additional subjects that they would value. Look at individual institution websites for specific entry information. 

Useful subjects for this job would be:

  • English
  • Maths
  • ICT subjects

Helpful to have

Not all employers list specific qualification requirements but they might ask for relevant experience, usually work based, that show a range of transferable skills. 

As you would be supporting the successful delivery of projects, you would be expected to demonstrate a good understanding of project management methodologies and operating systems, such as PRINCE2 (projects in controlled environments) or Agile.