3 Things You Didn’t Predict About Data Science Jobs

Fri, 30 Mar 2018 12:04:08 -0400
big, careers, data, science, tech

If you’re reading this post, you may have already read dozens of articles about data science jobs, data scientists, programming languages, jobs, industries, and everything there is to know about the field. You might have already taken an online course or two and started wrangling and cleaning whatever data you can get your hands on. Moreover, you may even have a pathway planned to become a data analyst, engineer, modeler, or scientist. If that’s the case, then there isn’t much more to know about the field, except getting experience in it. Still, here are a few new details you may not have predicted about data science jobs as of March 2018.

Data Science Jobs are not Industry Specific

If you’ve only looked for data science jobs in the high tech or startup industry, you may be selling yourself short. Almost every industry sector is looking for new hires with data science skills. That includes, finance and insurance, manufacturing, public administration, healthcare, transportation, trade and more. Companies seeking new employees with data science skills are looking to fill positions as business intelligence analysts, software developers, database administrators, computer systems analysts, marking managers, sales engineers, financial quantitative analysts, as well as for other analytics focused roles.

If you’ve been eyeing a product management role at a new startup, or a data engineer position at a big consultancy or sub-contractor, don’t limit yourself. Look at the types of companies popular in your region and expand your search to include positions in different industries.

Getting Trained

Being properly trained in data science is an important first step to getting a job in the field. Generally speaking, you can get a degree, take trainings, or be self-taught. Many cutting edge data science jobs have been built by self-taught ninjas and gurus. You will always find opportunities for talented, unguided learners who take classes like MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses) and complete projects on their own time. Alternatively, bootcamps offer opportunities to complete projects, network with professionals and they may have relationships with companies in the field. It all depends on your goals and the experience you want. At UMBC, we offer degrees, certificates, non-credit training and real world experience from industry professionals in Data Science to help you on your career path.

According to Burning Glass data, among over 6,000 jobs in the data science field, 3,248 requested a bachelor’s degree and 2,179 requested a master’s degree. Just under 900 requested a doctoral degree. A degree might require the biggest investment, but the average salary for these jobs is $120K per year.