Systems Analyst resume examples & templates

As a systems analyst you need to be an expert in information technology (IT) solutions that are the best fit for the technical needs of your company or client. And to get the job in this field that’s right for you, you need an excellent systems analyst resume. 

This writing guide and the attached systems analyst resume example will cover what you need to know to prepare a resume for this field, including:

• What does a systems analyst do?
• How to write a systems analyst resume
• The five elements of a resume and how to write them
• Choosing the best resume format for a systems analyst

What does a systems analyst do?

Systems analysts are responsible for monitoring and analyzing hardware and software used by a company and recommending any replacements or upgrades that better suit the firm’s needs. 

Systems analysts consult with users about their needs and stay on top of new technology products that could serve the company better. They write requirements and specifications for new systems and work with vendors and programmers to implement them. They also help to test new systems and train staff members in how to use them.

A systems analyst position may seem self-directed, but actually requires good communication skills since you’ll be reporting to IT directors, IT project managers and working with others.

How to write a systems analyst resume

A systems analyst resume should be one page only and should consist of five elements:

• Header
• Summary/profile
• Employment history
• Education
• Skills

The header is the space at the top of the page that contains all your contact info: your name, occupation, address, phone number and email. It should be attractively designed to give your resume an eye-pleasing look at a glance.

Rather than design your own resume and header, we recommend that you use a professional template where the design is already done for you. Take some time to review Resume.io’s resume examples and resume templates to find a design you like. Then use the easy resume builder tool to add your own info. With a pre-designed, HR-tested framework to build on, all you have to do is write the resume.

Choosing the best resume format for a systems analyst

Choosing the best resume format involves questions of structure, design and layout. 

Your resume needs to look as good as it reads, so choose a readable font at an appropriate font size, as well as adequate margins and a judicious use of white space. Use one-inch margins on all four sides, and strive for a balanced page that distributes the text evenly.

Another format decision is whether to list your work history in the reverse chronological or functional format. The former is the most common and is usually the best option for those who have a relatively continuous employment history working as a salaried employee. But the functional format is often best for contractors and freelancers who wish to organize their experience under skills or projects rather than on a chronological timeline. 

Summary resume example: Your leading qualifications

The resume summary, also known as a profile or personal statement, consists of a few lines of text under your header that describes your top qualifications for the job you’re seeking. These may include your work experience, your education/training and your special skills. 

The summary allows you plenty of freedom to create your professional self-portrait in your own words. Make the most of it by choosing your words carefully. Check out our adaptable resume example for more insights into the summary section.

Systems analyst employment history: Your job experience

Employers are always interested in work experience, so you want to highlight this thoughtfully in your employment history. In this section you need to name your past employers, their locations, your job title and the time span you worked there.

Under each employer, add bullet points describing what you did at each job. Be specific, using facts and figures where possible. Find out more about formatting your employment history section in our systems analyst resume example.

Systems analyst resume education sample: Your schooling and training

You will generally need a college degree in a computer-related field to become a systems analyst. Use the education section to name the colleges or universities where you studied, their locations, the years you attended and the degrees you obtained.

Start with your highest degree first and work backwards in time from there. Also, use this section to list any vocational training you’ve received or certifications you hold in your field. Check out the education section from our resume example.

CV skills example: What you’re good at

Include a list of your special job-related skills on your CV. These should include both hard skills (technical capabilities learned through training or on the job) and soft skills (interpersonal “people talents” like communication and coordination skills). You can find a mix of top skills in our resume example.

Key takeaways for a systems analyst resume

1. Start with an attractive header that contains all your contact information.
2. Put a lot of thought into a well-written profile that sums up your most relevant qualifications.
3. Tailor your employment history, education and skills to convince employers that you have the experience they’re looking for.
4. Check out our systems analyst resume sample for a great header design.

Best of luck in your job search!