Project Analyst vs. Project Coordinator: What Are the Differences?

A project analyst and a project coordinator are both important roles in the successful completion of a project. While these positions have similarities, there are also several key differences between them. In this article, we discuss the similarities and differences between a project analyst and a project coordinator, and we provide tips for pursuing a career in project management.

What is a Project Analyst?

A Project Analyst is a professional who provides support to project managers and teams. They are responsible for analyzing data and project information to help identify trends, risks and issues. They also develop tools and processes to help improve project management and team performance. Project Analysts typically have a background in business or data analysis. They use their skills to help project managers and teams better understand their projects, track progress and make decisions.

What is a Project Coordinator?

Project Coordinators work with Project Managers to ensure that all aspects of a project are completed on time and within budget. They develop project schedules, track progress and communicate updates to relevant parties. Project Coordinators also develop and maintain project documentation, such as meeting minutes and change logs. They may also be responsible for training and onboarding new team members. In some cases, Project Coordinators may also be responsible for developing project proposals and presentations.

Project Analyst vs. Project Coordinator

Here are the main differences between a project analyst and a project coordinator.

Job Duties

Project coordinators often take on more administrative tasks than project analysts. This includes things like managing the schedule, creating communications plans and overseeing budgets. They also might handle scheduling meetings with other teams involved in the project and delegating tasks to team members.

In contrast, project analysts typically focus more on the analytical and technical aspects of a project. They might perform things like conducting research, making recommendations and developing project plans. They also usually work closely with the project’s lead to ensure that they understand all the necessary information before making any decisions.

Job Requirements

Project analysts and coordinators typically need a bachelor’s degree in business administration, project management or another related field. Some employers prefer candidates to have a master’s degree as well, but it is not required for entry-level positions. Additionally, many professionals in these roles pursue certifications through the Project Management Institute (PMI). The PMI offers training programs that teach professionals how to use project management software and other tools they might need on the job.

Work Environment

Project coordinators typically work in an office setting, often with a team of project managers and other professionals. They may also travel to meet with clients or attend meetings. Project coordinators usually spend most of their time working on projects, but they may have some downtime between projects where they can relax or take vacation days.

Project analysts often work in an office environment as well, but they may also work remotely from home offices. They may also travel for work, especially if they’re working on a project that requires them to visit the construction site or another location. The work hours for project analysts are more flexible than those of project coordinators because they don’t need to be present at all times while a project is underway.

Skills

Both project analysts and coordinators use similar skills, such as organization, multitasking and communication. However, project analysts also need to be able to conduct research, analyze data and develop reports. They may also be responsible for developing budgets and schedules. Project coordinators typically do not have these responsibilities. Instead, they focus on tasks like scheduling meetings, ordering supplies and maintaining records.

Salary

Project analysts can earn an average salary of $71,493 per year, while project coordinators can earn an average salary of $58,126 per year. Both of these average salaries may vary depending on the size of the company at which you work, location of your job and the level of experience you have prior to pursuing either position.