What does a Data Scientist do?
Data Scientists interpret large amounts of unorganised, raw data. They analyse and synthesise data into results and findings that are more easily understood. Data Scientists must be good at machine learning so that they can convert data into various forms and develop algorithms to solve problems. They must be proficient in a variety of computer programming languages and be capable of conducting advanced statistical analysis. They also communicate their findings to a company’s management in order to help them solve business problems or make informed business decisions.
Data Scientist skills and qualifications
A successful Data Scientist candidate will have various prerequisite skills and qualifications that typically include:
- Experience in data visualisation and presenting data in graph or pictorial format
- Proficiency in designing algorithms and using statistical and problem structuring methods
- Ability to clean and validate data to ensure uniformity and accuracy
- Ability to use linear and non-linear regression, logistic regression, models and classification techniques for data analysis, clustering, dimensionality reduction, k-NN and pipeline
- Proficiency in mathematical computing
- Interpersonal skills
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Proficiency in various programming languages such as Java, C, Python, R along with strong coding skills
Data Scientist experience requirements
Data Scientist must have several years of experience using a variety of data analysis, data mining methods and data tools. They should also have years of experience using and developing algorithms, developing and implementing models and creating and running simulations. Some companies prefer candidates with experience in a particular field, such as database management, research, machine learning or artificial intelligence.
Data Scientist education and training requirements
Data Scientist must have at least a master’s degree in data science, data analytics, business analytics or big data, though most companies prefer candidates who have a doctoral degree. Some employers accept candidates who hold a bachelor’s degree in statistics, information technology, computer engineering, computer science or applied mathematics.
Some large companies offer data science graduate training programmes, which usually take around two years to complete. Some programmes accept graduates from any discipline. Others specify the degree subjects they will accept. Other companies also require candidates to obtain industry-recognised certifications, such as the Institute for Direct and Digital Marketing certification and the Chartered Institute of Marketing certification.
Data Scientist salary expectations
According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary of a Data Scientist in the United Kingdom is £53,963 per year. This figure varies depending on factors such as, experience, geographical location and company.
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