Engineer vs. Analyst: What Are the Differences?

Engineers and analysts are both professionals who work with data, but they have different focuses. Engineers typically design and oversee the construction of systems, while analysts use data to make recommendations. If you’re interested in working with data, learning more about each field can help you decide which is the best fit for you. In this article, we compare and contrast engineers and analysts, and we provide tips for choosing a career.

What is an Engineer?

Engineers apply the principles of science and mathematics to develop economical solutions to technical problems. Their work is the link between scientific discoveries and the commercial applications that meet societal and consumer needs. Many engineers develop new products. During the development process, they consider the potential risks of a product, its cost and its effectiveness. They also may be responsible for developing the processes used to manufacture a product. Engineers often specialize in one type of engineering, such as mechanical, electrical or chemical engineering.

What is an Analyst?

Analyst is a broad term that can refer to financial analysts, business analysts, systems analysts, and other types of analysts. Financial analysts provide guidance to businesses and individuals making investment decisions. They assess the performance of investments, do cost-benefit analyses, and predict future trends. Business analysts help organizations identify inefficiencies and ways to improve their operations. They may also develop business plans, conduct market research, and track metrics. Systems analysts design and improve information systems. They may also analyze an organization’s current system and recommend ways to improve it.

Engineer vs. Analyst

Here are the main differences between an engineer and an analyst.

Job Duties

Although both engineers and analysts use their knowledge to solve problems, their duties differ. Engineers develop solutions by creating new products or processes. They research the issue, identify a solution and then design a product or system that addresses the problem.

Analyst duties involve researching and collecting data. Analysts present the findings to stakeholders and communicate with team members about the project. They may also suggest solutions based on the information they receive. The primary difference is that an engineer’s work produces a finished product, while analysts provide support after a project is complete.

Job Requirements

To become an engineer, you need a bachelor’s degree in engineering from an ABET-accredited program. Once you have your degree, you must obtain a license from your state to practice engineering. To become an analyst, you need a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, such as mathematics, computer science or physics. Some analysts also pursue a master’s degree.

Work Environment

Engineers typically work in an office or lab environment. They may spend time on construction sites, where they can observe the progress of projects and ensure that their designs are being implemented correctly. Some engineers also travel to different locations to evaluate existing structures and determine how to improve them.

Analysts usually work in an office setting, but they may occasionally visit clients’ facilities to gather data for reports. They may also attend meetings with executives to discuss business goals and strategies.

Skills

Both engineers and analysts use problem-solving skills in their jobs. For engineers, they typically design products that will solve a problem or address a need facing individuals, families and business owners. For analysts, their job is to take data and information and turn it into insights that can help inform decision-making.

Both engineers and analysts need to have technical skills to perform their job. However, the type of technical skills needed differ between the two professions. For example, an engineer needs circuit design, advanced mathematics, linear systems and analysis and electrical schematics. An analyst needs statistical analysis, database management and computer programming.

While an engineer uses communication skills when they are creating reports of their research, corresponding with other engineers and colleagues and developing blueprints for their products, they are not necessarily going to be interacting with customers directly. An analyst is going to need interpersonal skills because they will most likely be interacting with people on a daily basis while they explain their findings.

Salary

The average salary for an engineer is $89,577 per year, while the average salary for an analyst is $68,820 per year. The average salary for an engineer may vary depending on the type of engineering you do, your level of experience and the company at which you work. The average salary for an analyst may vary depending on the type of analyst you are, your level of experience and the company at which you work.