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Back in 2012, HBR proclaimed Data Scientist as “the sexiest job of the 21st century,” and now we’re beginning to see why!
Data Science is an omnipresent power that has permeated almost every aspect of our daily lives. From education to healthcare, Data Science has applications across all parallels of modern industry.
As netizens, businesses, and organizations worldwide continue to generate colossal piles of data (as we speak!), the importance of Data Science technologies becomes more pronounced in real-world scenarios. Technologies like AI, ML, and Deep Learning are transforming the world around us, giving birth to new opportunities in multiple industries, including eCommerce, Fintech, Healthcare, and EdTech.
Businesses of all shapes and sizes tap into this vast pool of data to innovate unique solutions and focus on personalizing customer experiences. With an increasing number of businesses leveraging Data Science technologies, the demand for skilled and qualified Data Science experts is skyrocketing.
While IBM predicts that by 2020 the job openings for all Data Science and Analytics professionals in the US will increase by 364,000 to 2,720,000, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics maintains that 11.5 million new Data Science jobs will crop up by 2026.
If there’s anything that these statistics prove, it is the fact that Data Science is here to stay, and with time new jobs will emerge in Data Science, further pushing the demand for Data Science experts.
What IBM’s dedicated company for AI means a boom in AI jobs?
IBM has long been at the forefront of Data Science, particularly Artificial Intelligence. IBM Watson is one of the greatest examples of its accomplishments in this domain. Being in the Data Science business for so long, IBM strongly believes that “fluid AI” is the need of the hour.
In simple words, the modern industry needs AI technology that is fluid, meaning it can quickly adapt to the situation at hand. This advanced technology can apply knowledge and models for a specific domain to new use cases and challenges. They need AI that can combine different forms of knowledge, unpack causal relationships, and learn new things independently.
To accomplish this goal, IBM has already started developing new-age AI engineering tools. The four core workstreams propelling this vision are:
Neurosymbolic AI is a higher and more advanced projection of Deep Learning. It aims to leverage neural networks’ power with symbolic methods to improve and optimize AI’s reasoning abilities.
Benefits of Neurosymbolic AI-
- Minimises the machine-induced bias.
- Transparent machine learning model.
- More explainable decision-making process.
- Allows professionals to train machine learning models with lesser data using neural networks.
- Helps create a robust AI capable of reasoning, learning and cognitive modelling.
IBM aims to deliver robust, secure, and trusted AI that focuses on explainability, accuracy, and bias reduction.
Benefits of secure and trusted AI
- Reliable AI model
- Accountable AI model
- Transparent AI model
- Ethical AI model
- Sustainable AI model
The goal is to develop AI engineering tools and capabilities to simplify and automate routine tasks like data preparation, model training, and software lifecycle management.
IBM is working to develop a disruptive class of AI hardware that is energy-efficient. This AI hardware can scale up computing power and potential without increasing energy demand and consumption.
Gradually, as these technologies roll out into the market, businesses in the US will come forward to adopt them into their Data Science infrastructure. Naturally, these new-age technologies will give rise to new job roles, further fuelling the AI job boom.
This will push the demand for experienced and talented Data Science and AI experts who can efficiently leverage these technologies to their full potential. In the future, AI will carve out a clear career path for employees by outlining specific skill sets for Data Science jobs.
Career Opportunities for Data Scientists in the US
The Data Scientist’s job profile ranked no.1 in LinkedIn’s most promising jobs in the US in 2019, reporting over a 56% increase in job openings YoY. Stats suggest that Data Scientist job roles have grown over 650% since 2012!
But, who are Data Scientists?
According to HBR, a Data Scientist is “a high-ranking professional with the training and curiosity to make discoveries in the world of big data.”
A Data Scientist is a multi-talented expert well-versed in mathematics, statistics, computer science, and information science. They specialize in collecting data from disparate sources and analyzing large datasets containing structured and unstructured data to gain meaningful insights.
Once they extract these insights and data patterns, they use a combination of advanced scientific, statistical, and analytical methods to interpret the findings and convert them into actionable business decisions.
Data Scientists combine the best of both worlds – business and IT. Their primary focus is to study and analyze Big Data to help companies and organizations to make highly-specific, targeted, data-driven decisions.
Thanks to Data Science’s extensive range of industry applications, Data Scientists can work in almost any US industry. They can find employment opportunities with high salary compensation and job growth in education, eCommerce, retail, IT, BFSI, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, supply chain & logistics, transportation, media & entertainment, aerospace/aeronautical research, and military.
Like we mentioned earlier, Data Scientists can work for companies of all sizes – from startups to large corporations, MNCs, and research centres.
Career Opportunities in Data Science in US |
| Data Scientist |
| Data Analyst |
| Statistician |
| Machine Learning Engineer |
| Database Manager |
| Principal Data Scientist |
| Infrastructure Engineer |
| Data Engineer |
| Data Architect |
| IT Consultant |
| Software Engineer |
| Business IT Analyst |
| Marketing Analyst |
| Clinical Data Manager |
Companies hiring for Data Science Professionals in the US |
| Microsoft |
| IBM |
| Amazon |
| Oracle |
| Cloudera |
| Teradata |
| Numerator |
| Airbnb |
Career Pathway to Becoming a Data Scientist
Here’s a rough sketch of how you can progress to becoming a Data Scientist:
1. Earn a bachelor’s degree
The best entry pathway to Data Science is to earn a bachelor’s degree in a field closely related to Data Science. You can choose mathematics, statistics, computer science/engineering, IT, and information technology as your undergraduate majors since these fields are intricately linked to Data Science.
2. Earn a master’s degree
Data Science is a highly complex field of study, and hence, it requires aspirants to complete their postgraduate studies in any one of the subjects mentioned above. Most companies look for candidates who have a master’s degree or higher (PhD) for Data Science job roles.
3. Acquire the right skills
Data Science aspirants must develop niche skills, including programming; data structures; data mining, cleaning & munging; data visualization & Reporting; statistical analysis; risk analysis, and data warehousing. Apart from these skills, they must also gain soft skills like effective communication, critical thinking, problem-solving, organizational, and management skills.
4. Bag an entry-level job
After completing the first three steps, you should be ready to take on an entry-level position in Data Science (for example, Junior Data Analyst, Business Intelligence Analyst, Data Engineer, etc.). Make sure to choose a job role in a company that allows freshers room to grow and learn. It will help if you create a detailed online portfolio highlighting your skills, expertise areas, and projects. This will help you attract the attention of potential employers.
5. Opt for Data Science Certifications
Data Science certifications are an excellent way to gain industry knowledge and niche skills. You learn the nitty-gritty of Data Science skills like programming and data analysis using Big Data tools like Hadoop, Hive, Spark, etc. Companies usually tend to prefer candidates who have additional certifications along with a master’s degree since it shows their willingness to upskill and enrich their knowledge.
Top Data Science Jobs in the US
Data Scientist is not the only trending job profile in Data Science. There’s a whole range of challenging and well-paying Data Science job roles worth considering. Here are the top eight Data Science jobs in the US:
1. Machine Learning Engineer
Machine Learning Engineers are highly skilled experts specializing in Machine Learning. They design, build, operate, and manage intelligent models/systems that can perform a wide range of tasks by learning from experience. ML Engineers develop ML algorithms to train these models to perform human-like tasks with little or no human supervision. They work with Data Scientists and Data Analysts.
Machine Learning Engineers must be well-versed with mathematical, statistical, and computer science concepts. They must be proficient in multiple programming languages like Python, Java, Scala, R, C, C++, etc.
Skills required from a Machine Learning Engineer-
- Mathematics
- Statistics
- Knowledge of programming languages
- Data Modelling
- Neural Networks
- Communication skills
- Natural Language Processing
- Deep learning
- Computer Science
- Data Science
- Analytical
- Problem-solving skills
- Collaborative
Top companies hiring for Machine learning Engineer
- Apple
- Nike
- Moloco
- Zoom
- Adobe
There are numerous opportunities job opportunities for data science in USA provided that one is rightly equipped with skill sets.
Salary
The average annual salary of ML Engineers in the US is $1,25,000, and the typical salary range lies between $1,14,121 – $1,47,134 per year.
2. Data Architect
A Data Architect evaluates and analyzes a company’s data needs, outlines the roadmap to meet these requirements, determines the standards and goals for data management, and ensures that all the goals and needs align perfectly with the company’s overall strategy and business architecture.
They develop and implement database solutions to store and retrieve business data and oversee data migration activities. Data Architects also use different analytical and statistical techniques to analyze information and present their findings through detailed reports to the upper management and company stakeholders.
Data Architects must be proficient in applied mathematics and statistics. They must have extensive knowledge of data visualization, data migration, RDMS, database design, database management, and cloud computing.
Salary:
The average annual salary of Data Architects in the US is $119,011, and the typical salary range lies between $86,013 – $140,836 per year.
Skills required from Data Architect-
- Data visualisation
- Applied mathematics
- Statistics
- RDMSs (Relational Database Management Systems)
- SQL
- NoSQL
- Cloud Computing
Top Companies hiring for Data Architect-
- Zero ASIC
- Apex Systems
- Fidelity Investments
- Dice
- Adobe
- Peak Partners
- Insight Global
Armoured with the skillsets scope of data science in USA is limitless.
3. Statistician
Statisticians gather, analyze, and interpret numerical data to identify trends and spot patterns that can help companies understand quantitative business data and make informed decisions. They use mathematical techniques, statistical methodologies, and computer software to make sense of complex data and make accurate business predictions.
Statisticians must know how to employ statistical terms, concepts, and methodologies to different situations and business cases. They must possess analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
Salary:
The average annual salary of Statisticians in the US is $99,986, and the typical salary range lies between $52,690 – $146,770 per year.
Skills required from a Statistician-
- Mathematical aptitude
- Numeral literacy
- Analytical skills
- Problem- solving
- Computer skills
- Reporting
- Analytical
- Communication
- Critical thinking
- Decision-making
- Technological aptitude
4. Full-Stack Developer
As the name suggests, Full-Stack Developers are highly skilled in full-stack technology, which means they can handle both server-side and client-side programming. They develop the core logic that runs in the background (powering the website/application), and they also design the user interface (UI) with which the users interact. Full-Stack Developers manage the end-to-end life cycle of software applications.
Full-Stack Developers must be skilled in HTML/CSS/JavaScript coding. They must have in-depth knowledge of database & web architecture, application architecture design, version control systems. Also, they must have a flair in technical writing.
Salary:
The average annual salary of Full-Stack Developers in the US is $95,308, and the typical salary range lies between $81,210 – $107,541 per year.
Skills required for Full-Stack Developer-
- MySQL
- NoSQL
- HTML
- CSS
- JavaScript
- MERN STACK
- NODE.JS
- Version Control System (VCS)
- Web Architecture
Companies hiring for Full-Stack Developer-
- Curbio
- Hustle Hunters
- Addison Group
- Apex Systems
- Pearson
- Dice
- IBM
6. Business Intelligence (BI) Developer
BI Developers are professionals responsible for designing, deploying, and maintaining a company’s BI interfaces, including query tools, data visualization dashboards, and data modeling tools. BI Developers are aware of business domain peculiarities and challenges, which allows them to understand business requirements and implement BI solutions accordingly.
BI Developers must have a Database/Database Administration background and experience in working with BI tools. Besides exceptional data analysis and business analysis skills, BI Developers must be skilled in debugging/troubleshooting. They must be familiar with database management systems, online analytical processing (OLAP), and ETL (Extract, transform, load) framework.
Salary:
The average annual salary of BI Developers in the US is $94,897, and the typical salary range lies between $80,150 – $107,575 per year.
Skills required for BI Developer-
- Scripting
- Python
- Data visualisation
- Data formatting
- Agile Business Analysis
- Debugging
- Troubleshooting
Companies hiring for BI Developers-
- Scarpello Group
- Ogletree Deakins
- PwC
- Dice
- Apex Systems
- Verisk
7. Big Data Engineer
Big Data Engineers specifically deal with all-things Big Data. In this respect, they perform a host of functions. They design, build, test, implement, and maintain Big Data solutions.
They also develop large-scale data processing systems using Big Data tools like MapReduce, Hadoop, Spark, MongoDB, Cassandra, etc. Big Data Engineers evaluate the software, hardware needs of a company. In essence, they are experts who manage the complete data infrastructure and architecture of an organization.
Big Data Engineers are usually proficient in Software/Data Engineering. In addition to that, they are also well-versed with coding, software development, object-oriented design, data mining, data visualization, and statistical & quantitative analysis.
Salary:
The average annual salary of Big Data Engineers in the US is $89,838, and the typical salary range lies between $141,797 – $181,332 per year.
Skills required from Big Data Engineer-
- C++
- Java
- Python
- Hadoop
- Apache Spark
- Databases
- SQL
- IBM Data Stage
- Database Architecture and Design
- Communication
- Collaborative
Companies hiring for Big Data Engineer-
- Dice
- Cognizant
- HTC Global Services
- Impact.com
- Talent Group
- KTek Resourcing
8. Data Analyst
Data Analysts collect, organize, process, and analyze large volumes of data. They use different analytical and statistical tools to study data and extract relevant patterns from within massive datasets.
Data Analysts must present their findings in consolidated reports and visualizations in ways that are legible to technical and non-technical members of an organization. Thus, data analysis and data visualization are the two most crucial job responsibilities of Data Analysts. Through their findings, they help companies to devise data-centric solutions to business problems.
Data Analysts must possess strong business acumen along with other technical skills like programming, data mining, cleaning, & munging, data visualization, data warehousing, and business intelligence.
Salary
The average annual salary of Data Analysts in the US is $76,920, and the typical salary range lies between $67,585 – $85,873 per year.
Skills required for Data Analyst-
- Python
- R
- SQL
- NoSQL
- Linear Algebra
- Calculus
- Machine Learning
- Matlab
- Data Cleaning
- Data visualisation
- Critical Thinking
- Data Cleaning
Companies hiring for Data Analyst-
- Apex Systems
- Dice
- VeriiPro
- Nordstorm
- Agoda
- Horne
Learn Data Science online: The upGrad Advantage
By now, it’s evident that Data Science is one of the most happening and promising domains of the 21st century. Data Science jobs boast of fast career growth and hefty annual packages. Thus, anyone who wishes to capitalize on this fantastic opportunity must enroll in data science courses or certification programs.
upGrad offers three fantastic Data Science courses in association with IIIT-Bangalore that can help you kickstart a successful career in Data Science:
1. PG Diploma in Data Science
This diploma course is a 12-month program that extends five specialization options – Deep Learning, NLP, Business Intelligence/Data Analytics, Business Analytics, and Data Engineering. The course includes 14 programming tools/languages and over 60 industry projects.
2. PG Certification in Data Science
This is a 7-month short term Data Science course covering Python programming, predictive analytics using Python, visualization using Python, basic & advanced SQL, basic & advanced ML algorithms, and EDA. It includes more than 7 case studies and industry projects.
3. Master of Science in Data Science
This is an 18-month Master’s program in Data Science that also offers five specializations – Deep Learning, NLP, Business Intelligence/Data Analytics, Business Analytics, and Data Engineering. The course includes over 60 case studies and projects.
These programs are designed for working professionals, and hence, these courses are the perfect choice if you’re looking for an exciting turning point in your career. upGrad courses come with the promise of dedicated career assistance, personalized mentorship, timely doubt resolution, and global access opportunities.
We hope this helps!
