functional analyst job description

Some of the duties and responsibilities of functional analysts include: analysing existing systems: as a functional analyst, you evaluate the organisation's existing software and business applications. You also gather information about the company’s systems and procedures to help you analyse existing systems. You collect relevant data by interviewing managers and employees. performing gap analysis: you perform a gap analysis of the current systems and business applications. You identify the strengths and weaknesses of the existing systems. With your extensive technical knowledge, you can identify areas of improvement. identifying new applications: after identifying areas of improvement, you create plans to implement new technology solutions that improve functionality. You collaborate with functional teams to pick out ideal solutions for the company and implement them. monitoring systems and software performance: after installing new applications, you monitor their functionality. For instance, you conduct process mapping to diagnose system errors. You also conduct tests to measure functionality. writing user manuals and training employees: as a functional analyst, you ensure the proper usage and maintenance of computer systems. When you install new software or upgrade existing systems, you create employee user manuals. Alternatively, you train users about new system functionalities and how to troubleshoot issues that could arise.

As a functional analyst, you work in an indoor office environment. While you may be required to visit plant sites or warehouses occasionally, you don't travel much. There are remote work opportunities for this position in fully remote and hybrid work capacities. Jobs are available in the private sector, but even the government employs functional analysts as well. After gaining sufficient experience, you have the flexibility to work as a freelancer or consultant.

who are your colleagues?

Depending on your employer and the industry you work in, your colleagues might include data analysts , business analysts and data engineers . You might also be working in close proximity to operational risk managers and finance analysts , as well as other specialists that could include, but not be limited to, systems engineers , business systems analysts and operations managers .

Functional analysts follow a full-time employment model, ensuring a maximum of 40 working hours. However, specific hours vary depending on company or client requirements. To meet deadlines, you work overtime in the evenings and weekends. You work the typical 9-to-5 schedule when meeting with project managers or C-suite managers during business hours. However, you can test systems, code, or do internal system work whenever it's convenient for you, so there is some flexibility in your schedule.

The role of a functional analyst typically starts at a junior level, but you could begin your career by working as a software analyst or programmer. As you progress in your career, you take on more responsibilities and can become a solution architect or senior functional analyst. There is also the option to specialise in a specific industry, such as banking and investing, or work as an insurance functional analyst. You need a deep understanding of insurance processes and products and must work closely with the company to implement specialised programs. Another career option is to work as a systems applications and products (SAP) functional analyst. This role involves modifying parameters and software systems to meet specific business needs effectively. With years of experience, you can progress to become an IT consultant, IT project manager, software architect or test analyst.

advantages of finding a functional analyst job through randstad

Finding your functional analyst job through Randstad provides important advantages such as: a wide variety of training and development opportunities an experienced contact person to provide help if needed a range of opportunities in your area get paid weekly or monthly, depending on the job temporary and permanent contracts Want a permanent contract? A temporary job as a functional analyst is often a stepping stone to an attractive permanent job. Thousands of people earn a permanent contract every year with great employers thanks to a temporary job found through Randstad. What's more, many companies recruit their permanent employees through Randstad too.

what is the role of a functional analyst?

As a functional analyst, you evaluate the functionality of a business application or program. You assess the ability of business applications to meet a particular need. When you identify gaps created by business applications, you collaborate with the functional team to implement new technologies that improve the company's functions.

how much do functional analysts make in Australia?

As a functional analyst, you take home a remuneration package of $130,000 per year. When starting out in the role, you earn $120,000 annually. The most experienced functional analysts take home over $140,000 per year. Exact earnings fluctuate based on your responsibilities, skills and work experience.

is functional analyst a good job?

Working as a functional analyst involves evaluating the uses of technology and software to improve a company's procedures and processes. It is a great career opportunity with numerous opportunities to improve business operations. As a functional analyst, you can become the operations manager or take up senior management roles.

what is the difference between a business analyst and a functional analyst?

Both functional and business analysts evaluate company processes with the aim of improving procedures and processes. However, a functional analyst focuses on the technological aspects of the business, while a business analyst strives to improve productivity throughout the business.

what do you need to be a functional analyst?

As a functional analyst, you need a bachelor's degree in information science or computer science. Aside from degree courses, build your knowledge in technology application through certifications. While programming languages aren't mandatory in the role, having knowledge of statistical software improves your expertise.

how do I apply for a functional analyst vacancy?

Applying for a functional analyst job is easy: create a Randstad profile and search our job offers for vacancies in your area. Then send us your CV and cover letter. Need help with your application? Check out all our job search tips here .

functional analyst

what is a functional analyst?

A functional analyst is a crucial professional in any company. You play a vital role in maximising software to meet organisational goals and project objectives. This involves specialisation in specific business areas and closely studying the company's technology systems and procedures. Your analysis provides valuable insights for enhancing company processes.

Unlike programmers who mediate between the technical team and customers, you have diverse responsibilities as a functional analyst. You design computer systems, conduct seminars, gather and analyse data, and create detailed reports. You oversee system implementation, training and user guideline development.

Educational requirements typically include a computer science degree, although economics or information technology (IT) degrees may be suitable. Employers also seek candidates with relevant work experience, strategic skills and exceptional communication skills. The ability to work under pressure is also necessary.

Functional analysis involves assessing risks, feasibility and the impact of required functionalities on solutions. It also includes evaluating project timelines. Throughout these phases, you use tools like data flow diagrams and programming languages to describe system behaviour and structure accurately. You collaborate with technicians and update project managers on progress, ensuring clear communication. You support developers through product delivery and implementation.

A key role of a functional analyst is to coordinate between technicians, programmers and customers, facilitating clear communication and project realisation. You update clients on project status, report progress, and communicate changes or user requests to the development team.

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1

average functional analyst salary

The typical remuneration package for a functional analyst in Australia is $130,000 per year. The salary range depends on experience and other factors, such as the size of the company or geographical location. When you work in an entry-level position, you start with earnings of $120,000 annually. However, the remuneration package increases with experience. Senior functional analysts may take home over $140,000 yearly.

what factors affect the salary of a functional analyst?

As a functional analyst, your earnings mainly depend on your expertise and competency. When first joining the role, you have minimal experience and qualifications. With minimal experience, you cannot handle complex company tasks. As you improve your experience and expertise, you'll take home a higher salary.

The industry you work in and the size of the organisation also influence your earnings. When you work for a small company, you earn less due to the limited resources. In a large company, you take home a higher remuneration package due to the complexity of your duties and the unlimited resources available. High-revenue industries like technology, mining and manufacturing have better remuneration prospects.

Want to know what you will earn as a functional analyst? Check out what you are worth with our salary checker.

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types of functional analysts

Functional analysts come in different types, depending on the sector they operate in. You could work in transportation, food production, logistics, product manufacturing or mining. Essentially, you can find a job in any organisation that relies on computer systems for productivity.

Functional analysts primarily work in software development companies and in IT consultancy firms. However, your expertise is not limited to these environments. You can also work in the IT departments of large corporations, banks and insurance companies, or even within the federal or local government.

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working as a functional analyst

The role of a functional analyst is rewarding. To secure a position, you need a good understanding of the tasks, responsibilities, work environment, growth opportunities and collaborative nature of the position.

functional analyst job description
Some of the duties and responsibilities of functional analysts include:
- analysing existing systems: as a functional analyst, you evaluate the organisation's existing software and business applications. You also gather information about the company’s systems and procedures to help you analyse existing systems. You collect relevant data by interviewing managers and employees.
- performing gap analysis: you perform a gap analysis of the current systems and business applications. You identify the strengths and weaknesses of the existing systems. With your extensive technical knowledge, you can identify areas of improvement.
- identifying new applications: after identifying areas of improvement, you create plans to implement new technology solutions that improve functionality. You collaborate with functional teams to pick out ideal solutions for the company and implement them.
- monitoring systems and software performance: after installing new applications, you monitor their functionality. For instance, you conduct process mapping to diagnose system errors. You also conduct tests to measure functionality.
- writing user manuals and training employees: as a functional analyst, you ensure the proper usage and maintenance of computer systems. When you install new software or upgrade existing systems, you create employee user manuals. Alternatively, you train users about new system functionalities and how to troubleshoot issues that could arise.
work environment

As a functional analyst, you work in an indoor office environment. While you may be required to visit plant sites or warehouses occasionally, you don't travel much. There are remote work opportunities for this position in fully remote and hybrid work capacities. Jobs are available in the private sector, but even the government employs functional analysts as well. After gaining sufficient experience, you have the flexibility to work as a freelancer or consultant.
who are your colleagues?

Depending on your employer and the industry you work in, your colleagues might include data analysts, business analysts and data engineers. You might also be working in close proximity to operational risk managers and finance analysts, as well as other specialists that could include, but not be limited to, systems engineers, business systems analysts and operations managers.
work schedule

Functional analysts follow a full-time employment model, ensuring a maximum of 40 working hours. However, specific hours vary depending on company or client requirements. To meet deadlines, you work overtime in the evenings and weekends. You work the typical 9-to-5 schedule when meeting with project managers or C-suite managers during business hours. However, you can test systems, code, or do internal system work whenever it's convenient for you, so there is some flexibility in your schedule.
job outlook

The role of a functional analyst typically starts at a junior level, but you could begin your career by working as a software analyst or programmer. As you progress in your career, you take on more responsibilities and can become a solution architect or senior functional analyst.

There is also the option to specialise in a specific industry, such as banking and investing, or work as an insurance functional analyst. You need a deep understanding of insurance processes and products and must work closely with the company to implement specialised programs.

Another career option is to work as a systems applications and products (SAP) functional analyst. This role involves modifying parameters and software systems to meet specific business needs effectively. With years of experience, you can progress to become an IT consultant, IT project manager, software architect or test analyst.
advantages of finding a functional analyst job through randstad
Finding your functional analyst job through Randstad provides important advantages such as:
- a wide variety of training and development opportunities
- an experienced contact person to provide help if needed
- a range of opportunities in your area
- get paid weekly or monthly, depending on the job
- temporary and permanent contracts
Want a permanent contract? A temporary job as a functional analyst is often a stepping stone to an attractive permanent job. Thousands of people earn a permanent contract every year with great employers thanks to a temporary job found through Randstad. What's more, many companies recruit their permanent employees through Randstad too.

4

education and skills

If you want to join a career as a functional analyst, you need a background in technology. Start with a bachelor's degree in computer science or information technology after completing the 12th year. If you have a bachelor's degree in business administration, you can join the role if you can showcase technical knowledge and skills. For instance, technology certifications like CompTIA IT Fundamentals boost your career prospects. Some employers also expect a master of business administration with a specialisation in information systems.

You require work experience in data analysis or business analysis. While knowledge of programming languages is not compulsory, consider learning statistical analysis languages.