The pathway
How you actually get there, here
How you become one varies far more by country than what one does. This is the UK route. Most people take one of these ways in; the right one depends on where you're starting from.
- 1
Associate Systems Analyst
1-2 yearsSkills to master
- L1 incident resolution, basic system navigation, following runbooks, user account basics, clear documentation.
You're ready to move on when
- Consistently resolves L1 tickets accurately and efficiently.
- Can independently perform basic system tasks (e.g., password resets, simple data entry).
- Demonstrates a keen interest in learning how systems work and asking insightful questions.
- Proactively updates documentation after resolving an issue.
- 2
IT Support Specialist (L2)
2-3 yearsSkills to master
- Advanced troubleshooting, L2 incident management, understanding of business processes, basic system configuration, effective user communication.
You're ready to move on when
- Consistently resolves complex L2 issues without escalation.
- Can identify patterns in recurring problems and propose preventative measures.
- Is seen as a go-to person for specific application support by users and peers.
- Takes initiative to learn new system modules or features.
- 3
Junior Application Administrator
2-3 yearsSkills to master
- Deep knowledge of a specific application (e.g., Salesforce, Workday), module configuration, basic reporting, user training.
You're ready to move on when
- Becomes the subject matter expert for a particular business application.
- Can configure new features or modules within that application with minimal guidance.
- Successfully delivers small application enhancement projects.
- Proactively identifies ways to optimise the application for users.