How to Navigate Data Science Career Opportunities Like a Pro

– November 1, 2021Posted in: Feature

So, you’ve decided to pursue a career in data science—smart choice! Statistics and data science are some of the fastest-growing and most in-demand careers. With so much data touching practically any topic, statisticians and data scientists are more sought after than ever before.

But if you’re struggling to understand what all those different positions and paths really are, you’re not alone. Navigating your first steps into the workforce can be intimidating. Many students struggle with questions like the following:

  • What types of positions do data scientists have?
  • What are the programming, data visualization, and modeling software knowledge requirements for entry-level data science jobs?
  • What specialized knowledge do I need of the industry or field I’d like to enter?
  • What traits are employers looking for in the interview process?
  • What does a typical day at work as a data scientist look like?
  • How will data science careers change over time?

If you are grappling with similar questions, tune in to Data & Science with Glen Wright Colopy. Data & Science is a podcast sponsored by the American Statistical Association in which Glen and his guests answer questions from undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral students about careers in data science.

Glen has worked as a machine learning scientist since 2010 in the health care, biomedical, and pharmaceutical industries. In 2018, he graduated from the Computational Health Informatics Lab (CHI) at the Oxford Institute of Biomedical Engineering (IBME) and began working in the industry full time.

Here are three episodes to help answer some of your questions:

10 Beginner Questions 

Learn what technical programing skills, domain knowledge, and degrees are required to start a career in data science.

Q&A for Undergrads 

You’ve acquired an undergraduate degree in data science. Now what? Learn everything you need to know about transitioning from student to professional.

Data Science Job Search

If you’re looking to enter the data science workforce, this episode discusses how to navigate the job search process.

If you still have questions, subscribe to the podcast and submit them for future episodes. In the meantime, check out the ASA Committee on Career Development’s webinar series, particularly “Early Data Science Careers and the Job Search Process” and “Career Next Steps and Promotions.”

Editor’s Note: This article originally appeared on ThisIsStatistics. It is reprinted here with permission.