Data scientists develop innovative solutions to business challenges by applying their mathematical and analytical skills to detect patterns in very large datasets. Their work improves the performance of information systems and databases and leads to technological advancements and efficiencies, such as better networking technology, faster computing speeds and improved data security. Candidates must have strong analytical, data mining, multivariate statistical modelling and quantitative analysis skills, as well as experience in programming languages — commonly Python or Java — and writing SQL queries for data manipulation. In addition, they require experience querying databases and using statistical computer languages (R, Python, SLQ, etc.) and working with distributed data/computing tools (Map/Reduce, Hadoop, Hive, Spark, Gurobi, MySQL, etc.) Most employers require five to 10 years of experience in Computer Science or Information Systems, as well as a Bachelor’s degree, Master’s degree or Ph.D. in a quantitative discipline.
Typical duties of a data scientist:
Assessing the effectiveness and accuracy of new data sources and data gathering techniquesDeveloping and executing technical visions, including planning, technical decision making and project management in order to support business decisions and company growthDeveloping custom data models and algorithms to apply to data setsPresenting complex analyses as action-oriented recommendationsManaging and merging data from multiple sources and generating reportsReviewing applications, data sets and models for anomalies to ensure accuracyApplying effective algorithms to large-scale data modelling
Looking for a data scientist or a data scientist job?
The candidate is new to the role and building the needed skills, experience and autonomy.
50th percentile
128651
The candidate has the experience to perform core responsibilities without direct supervision and is comfortable with the role’s processes and subject matter.
75th percentile
157579
The candidate delivers value beyond the stated job duties, has advanced qualifications and experience, and is ready for the next career level.
Projected salaries for related positionsPosition title25th percentile50th percentile75th percentileAI Architect109113147175165191Machine Learning Engineer91350113173144130AI/ML Analyst7815595410120024
