Now is a great time to pursue a career in data analytics or data science. These fields are growing rapidly, with a predicted 31% growth over the next decade. Opportunities are available in a variety of industries and often offer the benefits of remote work, flexible schedules, and self-employment. Data analytics professionals often earn high median salaries, even at entry-level positions.
In order to succeed in data analytics or data science, it is important to have a strong foundation in math, statistics, and programming, and to be continually learning and adapting to new technologies. These skills are highly valued not just in the tech and digital sectors, but in a range of industries. If you’re interested in becoming an analyst or data scientist, now is the time to start building the skills and knowledge you need to succeed.
Why Choose a Career in Data Analytics?
There are many compelling reasons to consider a career in data analytics:
- High average salaries
- Growing opportunities for skilled workers
- Room for career advancement
In addition to these practical benefits, data analytics offers:
- Interesting problem-solving work on a daily basis
- A balance of technical and interpersonal skills
- Transferable skills that can be applied to other careers
- Flexible working hours and environments
- Few mandatory qualifications (skills are more important than degrees or certifications)
- Abundant learning resources
- A wide variety of job opportunities
If you’re interested in data analytics, it’s worth exploring the highest-paying jobs in the data analytics and learning the skills you’ll need to succeed.
11 Jobs That Use Data Analytics
Here are 11 jobs that make use of data analytics skills:
1. Data Scientist
Data scientists collect and analyze data, and use their technical expertise to make informed predictions. They are skilled in data analytics, including software tools and programming languages like Python or R, and use data visualization to communicate their findings.
With an average salary of $145,145, data scientist roles are challenging and rewarding, and the demand for these professionals is at an all-time high. If you’re interested in pursuing a career as a data scientist, consider following a dedicated training path to gain the necessary skills and knowledge.
2. Data Engineer
Data engineers are responsible for optimizing the infrastructure surrounding data analytics processes, particularly when working with large datasets. They may focus on improving the efficiency of data acquisition pipelines or upgrade database infrastructure for faster queries.
As high-level data analytics professionals, data engineers are well-paid, with median salaries similar to those of data scientists at $94,262. These professionals play a crucial role in ensuring that data can be effectively collected, stored, and analyzed within an organization.
3. Data Analyst
Data analysts are professionals who analyze company and industry data to extract value. These roles are found in a variety of industries, and job titles may vary. For example, a healthcare data analyst or a business analyst may have responsibilities similar to those of a data analyst.
While data scientists may need to be proficient in machine learning, this is not typically a requirement for data analysts. However, programming and SQL skills, as well as statistical knowledge, comfort with the data analysis workflow, and data visualization skills (such as PowerBI) are common requirements for these roles.
As of January 2023, the average salary for a data analyst is $72,443 per year, with an additional bonus of $2,000.
4. Business Intelligence Analyst
Business intelligence analysts are responsible for extracting value from their company’s data. These professionals typically need to be proficient in analyzing data, working with SQL, and creating data visualizations and models. Strong communication skills are also important in these roles.
As of January 2023, the average salary for a business intelligence analyst is $80,323 per year, with an average cash bonus of $7,000.
5. Data Analytics Consultant
Analytics consultants are professionals who deliver insights to help companies make better decisions. They may specialize in a particular industry or area of research and may work for different companies on short-term projects. This role is well-suited for those who enjoy change and have a specific interest in a field of study.
Analytics consultants often work remotely and compensation varies widely by industry. In 2023, a representative salary for this role is $87,068.
6. Operations Analyst
An operations analyst is a professional who analyzes a company’s internal processes and systems to improve efficiency and effectiveness. These analysts may work directly for a company or as consultants, and can be found in a variety of industries including grocery chains, postal services, and the military. It is important for operations analysts to have a strong understanding of business operations and technical expertise in the systems they work with.
In January 2023, the average annual salary for an operations analyst is $68,080 with an average cash bonus of $3,750. However, salaries for these professionals may vary widely due to the diverse range of industries they can work in.
7. Quantitative Analyst
A quantitative analyst is a data analytics professional who uses their skills to identify potential investment opportunities or risk management issues in the financial industry. These analysts may work for financial firms or independently, creating trading models to forecast the prices of stocks, commodities, and other financial instruments. Some quantitative analysts even start their own firms.
In January 2023, the median salary for this role is $85,995. Quantitative analysts are highly sought after in the financial industry due to their expertise in data analysis and their ability to identify valuable investment opportunities.
8. Project Manager
A project manager is a professional who uses analytics tools to monitor the progress, efficiency, and productivity of a team. To be successful in this role, it is helpful to have a basic understanding of data analytics. Project managers are often employed by large corporations, particularly in management consulting, and may also work in product and supply chain management.
In January 2023, the average salary for a project manager is around $73,495. These professionals play a crucial role in helping companies maintain profitability and efficient operations through effective project management.
9. Transportation Logistics Specialist
Transportation logistics specialists are responsible for optimizing the transportation of physical goods for a variety of organizations, including large shipping companies, naval transport companies, airlines, and city planning offices. To effectively plan efficient delivery routes, these specialists rely on data analytics to analyze large amounts of data and identify bottlenecks in land, sea, and air transportation.
A background in data analytics is particularly useful in this field, which requires a strong attention to detail and the ability to think ahead. Transportation logistics specialists with experience can earn around $53,653 per year.
10. Marketing Analyst
Data analytics plays a crucial role in digital marketing. Marketers use tools such as Google Analytics and custom reporting tools to analyze website and social media advertisement traffic. With large budgets at stake, marketing professionals rely on analysts to make informed decisions about how to allocate resources effectively.
Digital marketing salaries can vary widely, but marketing analysts typically earn an average of $65,792 per year. Senior and management-level positions in this field may have salaries that exceed six figures.
Essential Skills for a Job in Data Analytics
There are several foundational skills that are important to have when pursuing a career in data analytics. It’s a good idea to master these skills before you start job-hunting. If you need to learn any of these skills, an affordable, self-paced data science course could be a good option. Here are some key skills to consider:
Python
Python is currently one of the most commonly used programming languages. Knowing how to use Python for data analytics is often a requirement for data science roles, but even if it’s not required, it can help you stand out to potential employers. If you want to improve your programming language proficiency, consider enrolling in a Python for Data Science: Fundamentals Course.
SQL (Structured Query Language)
Working with data sources is a key part of data analytics. Early in your career, you’ll need at least a basic understanding of SQL. This language is often a major component of data analytics positions and is something many hiring managers will ask about in interviews. You can gain valuable experience in SQL through courses like those offered by Dataquest.
Data Visualization Skills
The ability to visualize data and communicate results is a valuable skill for job seekers. These skills are in high demand in the job market and can lead to higher salaries. No matter what career path you’re considering, being able to visualize and communicate insights related to your company’s bottom line is a valuable asset. To learn data visualization skills in Python and R, consider following a skill path or enrolling in a data visualization course.