Operations Support Analyst Job Description
Job Title: Operations Support Analyst
Overview/Summary of the Role: The Operations Support Analyst is responsible for providing technical expertise and support to an organization's operations department. They help to ensure the smooth functioning of operations by providing crucial analysis, reporting, and troubleshooting services.
Responsibilities and Duties:
- Perform analysis of data to identify trends, variances, and opportunities for process improvements.
- Develop reports and dashboards to present analysis findings to management.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify and solve operational issues.
- Assist in the implementation of new processes, systems, and tools as needed.
- Maintain and update operational procedures, policies, and guidelines.
- Troubleshoot technical issues and escalate them to appropriate parties as needed.
- Provide technical training and support to operational staff.
- Participate in regular meetings and reviews to ensure that business objectives are being met.
Qualifications and Skills:
Hard Skills:
- Proficiency in data analysis tools such as Excel, SQL, and/or Tableau.
- Knowledge of operational processes and systems.
- Familiarity with project management methodologies and tools.
- Ability to troubleshoot technical issues.
- Strong analytical skills and attention to detail.
Soft Skills:
- Strong communication and collaboration skills to work effectively with cross-functional teams.
- Effective problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
- Ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities.
- Strong time management and organizational skills.
- High level of adaptability and flexibility in a constantly changing work environment.
Education and Experience:
Required:
- Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (e.g. Operations, Business, Computer Science).
- 1-3 years of relevant work experience in an operations-related role.
- Strong computer skills with experience in Excel, SQL, and/or Tableau.
Preferred:
- Experience with project management methodologies (e.g. Agile).
- Background in IT or technical support.
- Familiarity with industry-specific operational tools and software.Licensing (if applicable):
There are no mandatory licensing requirements for Operations Support Analysts. However, some employers may prefer candidates who have relevant certifications in computer science, project management, IT service management, or related fields.
Typical Employers:
Operations Support Analysts can work in various industries, including technology, finance, healthcare, manufacturing, and government. Some typical employers include IT outsourcing firms, software companies, banks, hospitals, retail chains, and government agencies.
Work Environment:
Operations Support Analysts typically work in offices or computer labs, although they may also work remotely from home or other locations. They usually work full-time, and may need to work evenings, weekends, or holidays to meet project deadlines or handle issues that arise outside of regular business hours. The work can be fast-paced and demanding, and may involve troubleshooting, collaborating with multiple stakeholders, analyzing data, and making decisions under pressure.
Career Pathways:
To become an Operations Support Analyst, one typically needs a bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology, business administration, or a related field. Relevant experience in IT support, systems administration, or project management is also highly advantageous. Some individuals may start their careers as help desk technicians, network administrators, or project coordinators before moving into operations support roles.
After gaining experience as an Operations Support Analyst, one may be able to advance to positions such as Operations Manager, IT Manager, or Project Manager. Alternatively, one may choose to specialize in a particular area of operations support, such as database management, network security, or service desk management.
Job Growth Trend (USA and Global):
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of computer and information technology occupations, including Operations Support Analysts, is projected to grow 11% from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is driven by ongoing demand for cloud computing, data storage and management, and mobile computing, among other factors.
The global job market for Operations Support Analysts is also expanding, as companies increasingly rely on technology to optimize their operations and remain competitive. As a result, skilled professionals in this field are likely to enjoy good career prospects in the coming years.Career Satisfaction:
Operations support analysts generally report high levels of job satisfaction. They are responsible for ensuring that daily operations run smoothly and efficiently, which can be rewarding work. Additionally, the position often allows for opportunities to learn about different aspects of a business or organization, which can be personally satisfying.
Related Job Positions:
Related job positions in the field of operations support include:
1. Operations Support Specialist
2. Business Operations Analyst
3. Technical Support Analyst
4. Help Desk Analyst
5. Systems Support Analyst
Connected People:
Operations support analysts may interact with a variety of people within an organization, including:
1. IT team members
2. Operations managers
3. Customer service representatives
4. Sales representatives
5. Human resources staff
Average Salary:
The following are the average salaries for operations support analysts in different countries:
1. USA - $62,670 per year
2. UK - £29,000 per year
3. Germany - €46,750 per year
4. India - ₹419,611 per year
5. Brazil - R$69,474 per year
Benefits Package:
The benefits package for operations support analysts can vary based on the company or organization they work for. Some common benefits include health insurance, retirement savings plans, paid time off, and professional development opportunities.
Schedule and Hours Required:
Operations support analysts typically work full-time schedules, often during regular business hours. However, the specific schedule and hours required may vary depending on the needs of the organization. Some companies may require operations support analysts to work evenings, weekends, or holidays to ensure that operations run smoothly around the clock.Level of Autonomy:
Generally, Operations Support Analysts work under the supervision of a manager or a more senior professional. However, they may also be given some autonomy to carry out their duties independently. They must maintain a proactive and self-sufficient work ethic to ensure the smooth operation of their team and meet the organization's objectives.
Opportunities for Professional Development and Advancement:
Operations Support Analysts can develop transferable skills that may be useful for other roles in the organization. With time and experience, they can advance to roles such as Operations Manager, Process Improvement Analyst, or Business Analyst.
Professional development opportunities can range from in-house training programs and workshops to industry-specific certifications. Pursuing further education in related fields can also lead to growth opportunities within the organization or other companies.
Specialized Skills or Knowledge Required:
Operations Support Analysts must have a strong analytical mindset and mathematical skills to perform data analysis and support operations. They should also have knowledge of project management methodologies, database management systems and reporting tools, and software development methodologies.
Other key skills include excellent communication, problem-solving, and organizational skills, as well as the ability to adapt to change and work well under pressure.
Physical Demands:
Operations Support Analysts work mainly in an office environment and rarely have any physical demands associated with their role.
Tools and Technologies Used:
Operations Support Analysts use a variety of software applications such as Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Project, Access, and SQL databases to perform their duties. They may also use specialized tools such as project management software and IT systems management tools. Therefore, it is essential to have a deep understanding of these tools and technologies to thrive in this role.Work Style:
Operations Support Analysts are typically detail-oriented individuals who possess excellent analytical and problem-solving skills. They are comfortable working with complex systems and can quickly identify issues and implement solutions. They are also adept at multitasking and managing their time effectively to ensure that tasks are completed within the required deadlines. These professionals are typically self-motivated and can work independently, yet they are also great team players and can collaborate effectively with other members of their team.
Working Conditions:
Operations Support Analysts usually work in an office environment and spend most of their day working on a computer. They may need to put in extra hours during critical incidents or scheduled upgrades, which can require working during evenings or weekends. The work can be stressful at times, especially when dealing with critical issues, so individuals in this role must be able to work under pressure and remain calm and focused.
Team Size and Structure:
Operations Support Analysts work closely with other members of the IT department, including technical teams, project managers, and business analysts. The team size can vary depending on the organization, but typically, it includes a manager or team lead and several analysts. In larger companies, the team may be structured into sub-teams, with analysts specializing in different systems or technologies.
Collaboration and Communication Requirements:
Effective communication and collaboration are essential for success in this role. Operations Support Analysts must communicate clearly and effectively with other members of the IT department and stakeholders in the organization. They must be able to explain technical issues to non-technical staff and provide regular updates on the progress of incidents or projects. They must also work collaboratively with other teams to ensure that systems are integrated and functioning seamlessly.
Cultural Fit and Company Values:
Operations Support Analysts should have a strong commitment to the company's values and culture. They should be willing to work hard and take initiative to ensure that operations are running smoothly. They should be proactive in identifying potential issues and implementing solutions to minimize downtime. They should also be team players and willing to collaborate with others to achieve the company's goals.
Overview/Summary of the Role: The Operations Support Analyst is responsible for providing technical expertise and support to an organization's operations department. They help to ensure the smooth functioning of operations by providing crucial analysis, reporting, and troubleshooting services.
Responsibilities and Duties:
- Perform analysis of data to identify trends, variances, and opportunities for process improvements.
- Develop reports and dashboards to present analysis findings to management.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify and solve operational issues.
- Assist in the implementation of new processes, systems, and tools as needed.
- Maintain and update operational procedures, policies, and guidelines.
- Troubleshoot technical issues and escalate them to appropriate parties as needed.
- Provide technical training and support to operational staff.
- Participate in regular meetings and reviews to ensure that business objectives are being met.
Qualifications and Skills:
Hard Skills:
- Proficiency in data analysis tools such as Excel, SQL, and/or Tableau.
- Knowledge of operational processes and systems.
- Familiarity with project management methodologies and tools.
- Ability to troubleshoot technical issues.
- Strong analytical skills and attention to detail.
Soft Skills:
- Strong communication and collaboration skills to work effectively with cross-functional teams.
- Effective problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
- Ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities.
- Strong time management and organizational skills.
- High level of adaptability and flexibility in a constantly changing work environment.
Education and Experience:
Required:
- Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (e.g. Operations, Business, Computer Science).
- 1-3 years of relevant work experience in an operations-related role.
- Strong computer skills with experience in Excel, SQL, and/or Tableau.
Preferred:
- Experience with project management methodologies (e.g. Agile).
- Background in IT or technical support.
- Familiarity with industry-specific operational tools and software.Licensing (if applicable):
There are no mandatory licensing requirements for Operations Support Analysts. However, some employers may prefer candidates who have relevant certifications in computer science, project management, IT service management, or related fields.
Typical Employers:
Operations Support Analysts can work in various industries, including technology, finance, healthcare, manufacturing, and government. Some typical employers include IT outsourcing firms, software companies, banks, hospitals, retail chains, and government agencies.
Work Environment:
Operations Support Analysts typically work in offices or computer labs, although they may also work remotely from home or other locations. They usually work full-time, and may need to work evenings, weekends, or holidays to meet project deadlines or handle issues that arise outside of regular business hours. The work can be fast-paced and demanding, and may involve troubleshooting, collaborating with multiple stakeholders, analyzing data, and making decisions under pressure.
Career Pathways:
To become an Operations Support Analyst, one typically needs a bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology, business administration, or a related field. Relevant experience in IT support, systems administration, or project management is also highly advantageous. Some individuals may start their careers as help desk technicians, network administrators, or project coordinators before moving into operations support roles.
After gaining experience as an Operations Support Analyst, one may be able to advance to positions such as Operations Manager, IT Manager, or Project Manager. Alternatively, one may choose to specialize in a particular area of operations support, such as database management, network security, or service desk management.
Job Growth Trend (USA and Global):
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of computer and information technology occupations, including Operations Support Analysts, is projected to grow 11% from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is driven by ongoing demand for cloud computing, data storage and management, and mobile computing, among other factors.
The global job market for Operations Support Analysts is also expanding, as companies increasingly rely on technology to optimize their operations and remain competitive. As a result, skilled professionals in this field are likely to enjoy good career prospects in the coming years.Career Satisfaction:
Operations support analysts generally report high levels of job satisfaction. They are responsible for ensuring that daily operations run smoothly and efficiently, which can be rewarding work. Additionally, the position often allows for opportunities to learn about different aspects of a business or organization, which can be personally satisfying.
Related Job Positions:
Related job positions in the field of operations support include:
1. Operations Support Specialist
2. Business Operations Analyst
3. Technical Support Analyst
4. Help Desk Analyst
5. Systems Support Analyst
Connected People:
Operations support analysts may interact with a variety of people within an organization, including:
1. IT team members
2. Operations managers
3. Customer service representatives
4. Sales representatives
5. Human resources staff
Average Salary:
The following are the average salaries for operations support analysts in different countries:
1. USA - $62,670 per year
2. UK - £29,000 per year
3. Germany - €46,750 per year
4. India - ₹419,611 per year
5. Brazil - R$69,474 per year
Benefits Package:
The benefits package for operations support analysts can vary based on the company or organization they work for. Some common benefits include health insurance, retirement savings plans, paid time off, and professional development opportunities.
Schedule and Hours Required:
Operations support analysts typically work full-time schedules, often during regular business hours. However, the specific schedule and hours required may vary depending on the needs of the organization. Some companies may require operations support analysts to work evenings, weekends, or holidays to ensure that operations run smoothly around the clock.Level of Autonomy:
Generally, Operations Support Analysts work under the supervision of a manager or a more senior professional. However, they may also be given some autonomy to carry out their duties independently. They must maintain a proactive and self-sufficient work ethic to ensure the smooth operation of their team and meet the organization's objectives.
Opportunities for Professional Development and Advancement:
Operations Support Analysts can develop transferable skills that may be useful for other roles in the organization. With time and experience, they can advance to roles such as Operations Manager, Process Improvement Analyst, or Business Analyst.
Professional development opportunities can range from in-house training programs and workshops to industry-specific certifications. Pursuing further education in related fields can also lead to growth opportunities within the organization or other companies.
Specialized Skills or Knowledge Required:
Operations Support Analysts must have a strong analytical mindset and mathematical skills to perform data analysis and support operations. They should also have knowledge of project management methodologies, database management systems and reporting tools, and software development methodologies.
Other key skills include excellent communication, problem-solving, and organizational skills, as well as the ability to adapt to change and work well under pressure.
Physical Demands:
Operations Support Analysts work mainly in an office environment and rarely have any physical demands associated with their role.
Tools and Technologies Used:
Operations Support Analysts use a variety of software applications such as Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Project, Access, and SQL databases to perform their duties. They may also use specialized tools such as project management software and IT systems management tools. Therefore, it is essential to have a deep understanding of these tools and technologies to thrive in this role.Work Style:
Operations Support Analysts are typically detail-oriented individuals who possess excellent analytical and problem-solving skills. They are comfortable working with complex systems and can quickly identify issues and implement solutions. They are also adept at multitasking and managing their time effectively to ensure that tasks are completed within the required deadlines. These professionals are typically self-motivated and can work independently, yet they are also great team players and can collaborate effectively with other members of their team.
Working Conditions:
Operations Support Analysts usually work in an office environment and spend most of their day working on a computer. They may need to put in extra hours during critical incidents or scheduled upgrades, which can require working during evenings or weekends. The work can be stressful at times, especially when dealing with critical issues, so individuals in this role must be able to work under pressure and remain calm and focused.
Team Size and Structure:
Operations Support Analysts work closely with other members of the IT department, including technical teams, project managers, and business analysts. The team size can vary depending on the organization, but typically, it includes a manager or team lead and several analysts. In larger companies, the team may be structured into sub-teams, with analysts specializing in different systems or technologies.
Collaboration and Communication Requirements:
Effective communication and collaboration are essential for success in this role. Operations Support Analysts must communicate clearly and effectively with other members of the IT department and stakeholders in the organization. They must be able to explain technical issues to non-technical staff and provide regular updates on the progress of incidents or projects. They must also work collaboratively with other teams to ensure that systems are integrated and functioning seamlessly.
Cultural Fit and Company Values:
Operations Support Analysts should have a strong commitment to the company's values and culture. They should be willing to work hard and take initiative to ensure that operations are running smoothly. They should be proactive in identifying potential issues and implementing solutions to minimize downtime. They should also be team players and willing to collaborate with others to achieve the company's goals.