Data Scientists
Develop and implement a set of techniques or analytics applications to transform raw data into meaningful information using data-oriented programming languages and visualization software. Apply data mining, data modeling, natural language processing, and machine learning to extract and analyze information from large structured and unstructured datasets. Visualize, interpret, and report data findings. May create dynamic data reports.
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- KnowledgeDesign machine learning models and natural language processing algorithms using Python, R, TensorFlow, and PyTorch to extract insights from large structured and unstructured datasets.Advanced
- KnowledgeCreate interactive data visualizations and dynamic reporting dashboards using Tableau, Power BI, and Python libraries to communicate findings to technical and non-technical stakeholders.Advanced
- KnowledgeSynthesize insights from multiple data sources and analytical methods to formulate data-driven recommendations that address complex business problems.Advanced
- KnowledgeAnalyze large-scale data patterns and statistical relationships applying data mining and data modeling techniques across distributed computing environments.Proficient
- Hands-onOperate big data processing frameworks including Apache Spark, Hadoop, and Kafka to transform raw data into analytical datasets.Proficient
- KnowledgeDevelop data pipelines and ETL workflows using cloud platforms such as AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud with containerization tools like Docker and Kubernetes.Proficient
- Hands-onExecute complex SQL queries and database operations across relational and NoSQL databases including PostgreSQL, MongoDB, and Cassandra.Proficient
- KnowledgeEvaluate model performance metrics and predictive accuracy applying statistical validation techniques and A/B testing methodologies in production environments.Proficient
- Hands-onManipulate multidimensional datasets using programming libraries including pandas, NumPy, and scikit-learn for feature engineering and data transformation.Proficient
- MindsetIntegrate ethical data practices and privacy considerations when designing analytics solutions that handle sensitive or personally identifiable information.Proficient
- KnowledgeImplement version control and collaborative development workflows using Git, GitHub, and CI/CD tools like Jenkins to maintain reproducible analytics code.Proficient
- MindsetAdvocate data-driven decision-making and analytical rigor when collaborating with cross-functional teams and presenting findings to executive leadership.Proficient
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Data Scientists (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
233,440
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $63,650. 25th percentile: U.S. $82,630. 50th percentile: U.S. $112,590. 75th percentile: U.S. $155,810. 90th percentile: U.S. $194,410. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
- U.S.
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $63,650 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $194,410 |
| Workers on average earn | $124,590 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
- Alteryx software
- Amazon Elastic Compute Cloud EC2
- Amazon Redshift
- Amazon Simple Storage Service S3
- Amazon Web Services AWS software
- Apache Cassandra
- Apache Hadoop
- Apache Hive
- Apache Kafka
- Apache Spark
- Atlassian Confluence
- Atlassian JIRA
- Bash
- C
- C#
- C++
- Docker
- Elasticsearch
- Git
- GitHub
- Go
- IBM SPSS Statistics
- JavaScript
- JavaScript Object Notation JSON
- Jenkins CI
- Kubernetes
- Linux
- Microsoft Access
- Microsoft Azure software
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft Power BI
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft SQL Server
- MongoDB
- NoSQL
- Oracle Java
- Perl
- PostgreSQL
- PyTorch
- Python
- R
- Ruby
- SAS
- Scala
- Shell script
- Splunk Enterprise
- Structured query language SQL
- Tableau
- TensorFlow
- Teradata Database
- The MathWorks MATLAB
- UNIX
Technology Skills
- Amazon Web Services AWS SageMaker
- Apache Airflow
- Apache MXNet
- Apache Pig
- BigQuery
- Business intelligence software
- Flask
- Geographic information system GIS systems