Shridhar Gupta via Unsplash

In the world of Data Science, there are so many routes you can go down, with different skills, expertise, and salary. 

Data Science is one of the most popular growing professional careers at the moment. With many equating data to the value of gold, the demand for professionals who can handle, manage and analyze data continues to increase.

If you are already in the field, you may be looking for something that increases your knowledge, skills, and salary. If you are looking to get into the field, you are probably looking for something that you are interested in, but also know that you have a nicely compensated salary. 

I will go through the top jobs in the world of Data Science and their salaries. These salaries have been taken from Indeed Salaries. 

Data Scientist

A Data Scientist's role consists of managing large complex datasets and producing outputs using predictive analysis and machine learning. They have proficient knowledge in data mining, algorithms, machine learning, artificial intelligence, and statistical tools which help in decision-making for businesses.

Data Scientists normally have a degree in Computer Science, Mathematics, Data Science, etc. There are also BootCamps available due to the high demand for them.

• Low Salary: $78,877
• Average base salary: $134,367
• High salary: $228,892

Data Engineer

Data Engineers have a variety of roles, from building systems to collecting and managing data. They convert raw data into information that Data Scientists and Business Intelligent Analysts can make interpretations on.

They have many responsibilities such as developing algorithms, building and testing pipelines and ensuring that all the tools and methods used are within government compliances. 

Data Engineers typically have a degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Statistics, etc. 

• Low Salary: $77,926
• Average base salary: $125,322
• High Salary: $201,544

Data Analyst

Data Analysts are the people who help organizations solve their problems. They gather data, clean it and make interpretations to help organizations make important decisions. Data analysts need to have good presentational skills as they have to communicate their findings to stakeholders. 

Data Analysts typically have a degree in Data Science, Computer Science, Applied Mathematics, etc. 

• Low Salary: $44,464
• Average base salary: $68,769
• High Salary: $106,360

Business Intelligence Analyst

A BI Analyst breaks down data that is important to the business. They gather data, clean it, and analyze it to provide insight into revenue, sales, customer engagements, and market information. BI Analysts identify these patterns and trends which find opportunities for the business. 

A BI Analyst typically has a degree in Computer Science, Economics, Business Administration, etc. 

• Low Salary: $56,950
• Average base salary: $84,119
• High Salary: $124,249

Machine Learning Engineer

Machine Learning Engineers work with algorithms to solve a problem. They explore data, identify patterns and differences, as well as visualize data to help them come to a conclusion. They will verify the quality and accuracy of the data before presenting the outputs. 

They are responsible for creating programs and algorithms so that machines can complete tasks without human intervention.

Machine Learning Engineers typically have a degree in Computer Science, as well as a Master’s degree or Ph.D. in the field. 

• Low Salary: $68,791
• Average base salary: $127,430
• High Salary: $236,055

Statistician

Statisticians are responsible for collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data to help identify trends and patterns. They then use to communicate these findings to stakeholders to help in the decision-making process and future strategies. 

They have a great understanding of statistical theories to provide valuable insights and create new methodologies for Data Engineers to apply. They also have proficient knowledge in SQL, data mining, and Machine Learning tools. 

• Low Salary: $60,834
• Average base salary: $95,364
• High Salary: $149,494

Database Administration 

With the amount of data available in the world, you need someone that can manage, monitor, and optimize databases. They work closely with the IT team to ensure data security. They also build new databases, backup and restore data, as well as making modifications to the database. 

A database administrator typically has a degree in information science or computer science. 

• Low Salary: $60,970
• Average base salary: $90,855
• High Salary: $135,389

Data Architect 

A Data Architect is responsible for designing and building data models that fulfill the business’s needs. They will visualize and design the company's enterprise data management framework which describes the workflow process to plan, specify, create, acquire, retrieve, control, and use data. They will translate business requirements into technical specifications.

Most Data Architects typically hold a degree in information technology, computer science, computer engineering, etc.

• Low Salary: $50,308
• Average base salary: $85,901
• High Salary: $146,675

Conclusion

The need for professionals who know what to do with data will continuously increase. As the demand continues to increase, more and more people will and already are transitioning into the world of Data. This will reflect on people's salary, as their experience grows, their salary will too. 
 
 
 
Nisha Arya is a Data Scientist and Freelance Technical Writer. She is particularly interested in providing Data Science career advice or tutorials and theory based knowledge around Data Science. She also wishes to explore the different ways Artificial Intelligence is/can benefit the longevity of human life. A keen learner, seeking to broaden her tech knowledge and writing skills, whilst helping guide others.