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Increasingly, the business world is becoming driven by data. Companies are using the data they collect to help anticipate trends, strategize, and become more efficient. They need professionals to help them interpret that data so they can make informed decisions. That’s where a Business Intelligence Analyst comes in.
Business Intelligence Analysts take collected business data and turn them into usable information, so business leaders and stakeholders can use that data to make informed strategic decisions. A Business Intelligence Analyst uses data to identify sources of lost revenue and inefficiencies, then shares that information with colleagues so they can create solutions.
In today’s data-driven world, Business Intelligence Analysts must be skilled at programming, data modeling, and interpreting statistics, as well as communication and analytical thinking. It’s important for Business Intelligence Analysts to toe the line between IT and a company’s core departments so they can properly communicate their findings to the rest of the organization.
Typical Duties and Responsibilities
- Perform day-to-day management of and periodic reporting on the assigned areas of reporting
- Assist in the development of enterprise-level data solutions
- Develop Business Intelligence (BI) reporting from executive-level dashboards to supervisor-level targeted areas
- Validate information contained in the reports developed and provide user introduction
- Perform data audits of the enterprise data solution
- Participate in and provide support for internal and external audits
Education and Background
A bachelor’s degree in finance, information technology, statistics or data analysis, as well as 2 to 3+ years of experience in the BI field are required for this position.
1+ years experience in SQL technologies like SSRS, SSIS, and SQL Server; 3+ years experience with Microsoft Office with emphasis on Excel and Access; as well as familiarity with one or more business intelligence tools such as Birst, Tableau or similar are strongly preferred.
Skills and Competencies
- Ability to create computer formulas, databases, models, and queries
- Must be able to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions
- Experience with ETL tools
- Ability to write reports, business correspondence, and procedure manuals
- Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups of managers, clients, customers, and the general public
- A creative mindset to create functional but well-designed data visualizations within SSRS or Tableau
Compensation
According to Payscale the median annual salary of a Business Intelligence Analyst with
1 Year of Experience:
- Orlando, Florida: $67,000
- Tampa, Florida: $70,000
- Jacksonville, Florida: $70,000
- Miami, Florida: $81,000
- Atlanta, Georgia: $85,000
- Chicago, Illinois: $80,000
- Houston, Texas: $90,000
- Los Angeles, California: $75,000
- New York City, New York: $80,000
- Seattle, Washington: $80,000
- Overall: $76,000
5 Years of Experience:
- Orlando, Florida: $80,000
- Tampa, Florida: $81,000
- Jacksonville, Florida: $80,000
- Miami, Florida: $94,000
- Atlanta, Georgia: $93,000
- Chicago, Illinois: $85,000
- Houston, Texas: $104,000
- Los Angeles, California: $105,000
- New York City, New York: $94,000
- Seattle, Washington: $100,000
- Overall: $90,000
Similar Job Titles
- ETL Analyst
- Business Intelligence Analyst
- Data Warehouse Analyst
- Business Information Consultant
- Big Data Analyst
Career Path
While pursuing a bachelor’s degree, students are encouraged to take courses in data architecture, database design, data mining, and data visualization. It’s also important to develop strong Excel and SQL skills before graduating. Many companies also like candidates to have real-world experience like an internship before graduation, so students have an understanding of the inner workings of a business.
Many Business Intelligence Analysts begin their careers as Data Analysts, Business Analysts, or Data Report Writers, so look for those positions if you’re just starting out in the field.
There are many certifications available for Business Intelligence Analysts, including Microsoft’s Certified Solutions Expert in data management and analytics and TDWI’s Certified Business Intelligence Professional. There are also certifications available in specific computer languages like SAS.
Position Trends
Companies are increasingly interested in gaining in-depth data about their businesses and are turning to machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI) to help them anticipate trends and customer behaviors. Business Intelligence Analysts will need to find ways to work with that technology in the coming years.
In addition, users want to know that the data they are analyzing is statistically valid and reliable. As companies become more data-driven, they are also looking for IT professionals who can teach people in core departments and other stakeholders how to interpret and use data to help them do their jobs better.
A recent survey of business intelligence users, consultants, and vendors from the Business Application Research Center showed that managing data quality and master data is the most important trend in the business intelligence field in 2020. Data discovery and visualization, as well as establishing a data-driven culture within organizations, were tied for the second-most important.
Job Outlook
As companies become more data-driven, they will depend more and more on people who can help them collect, access and interpret data to help them strategize and become more efficient. Business Intelligence Analysts will be needed to look at collected data, create data models, and identify business trends to allow companies to develop strategies to stay current.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the business and management analyst field is expected to grow by 14 percent between 2018 and 2028, which is much faster than average.
Typical Hours
The typical work hours in an office setting for a Business Intelligence Analyst are usually from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays.
Freelance workers are usually able to set their own workdays and hours.
Where You Can Find Jobs
Are You Interested in Becoming a Business Intelligence Analyst?
Here at 4 Corner Resources, we will connect you to one of our headhunters or recruiters to see if you are a perfect fit for one of our job openings. If a job opening does not suit you, we will always keep you in mind as new positions open up. We have vast experience connecting professionals with some of the most well-known organizations in the country. Your next job or career path can be right around the corner. Check out our latest open positions and our blog for career advice. Feel free to contact us at any time.