Sarah Kruhm, ThisIsStatistics
Glassdoor has identified “data scientist” as #3 on its list of the 50 Best Jobs in America in 2022 based on salary, job satisfaction, and number of open positions. Additionally, data engineer was ranked #7 and data analyst was ranked #35.
With data science receiving consistently high marks in the job satisfaction category and the number of data science positions growing in recent years, data scientist has become a top occupation for the newest generation of workers: Generation Z, born between 1997 and 2012. People in this generation are digital natives who grew up with mobile technology and the internet at their fingertips. As they become the largest generation of the professional workforce, they’re finding their values—such as a desire for social impact, flexibility, and work/life balance—are well suited to data science careers.
Gen Z in the Workplace
As Gen Zers have filtered into the workforce over the past decade, they have proven to be action-oriented professionals who value flexibility and prioritize mental health. These young professionals are also more vocal about their desire for a competitive salary and open communication.
Being constantly plugged into the internet has increased Gen Zers’ passion for addressing social issues and advocating for equity. The pandemic has left members of the younger generation wanting genuine human connection in the workplace.
As a top-ranked job by Glassdoor, data scientist addresses the unique characteristics of the growing Gen Z workforce.
Data science careers are being favored by Gen Z more than older generations because of their high, competitive salaries and bountiful job openings. The data science field also gives the youngest generation of workers the flexibility and creativity they desire, according to Fortune in “Data Science Jobs Are a Top Pick for Gen Z, Per New Glassdoor Report.”
“Since data scientists aren’t necessarily required to be in an office like some other roles, it’s very likely companies are able to offer these workers more flexibility to work remotely if they prefer,” writes Meghan Malas.
Data scientists earn high salaries, have rapidly growing opportunities, and report high job satisfaction. Even better, career paths range across many fields, offering Gen Z an outlet to engage in social impact efforts inspired by their desire for ethical and equitable business practices or to pursue a passion.
The Best Career Choice for Gen Z
Data science is an area of growing opportunity. The Bureau of Labor Statistics shared in their Occupational Outlook Handbook that computer and information research jobs like data scientist are expected to increase by 22 percent between 2020 and 2030. As Gen Z flows into the workforce, they are meeting the rising demand with enthusiasm. Currently, they rate data science number four among their highest-ranked jobs, according to Glassdoor.
With opportunities ranging from big tech to biostatistics to social justice and more, this upcoming generation of professionals is finding data science a satisfying career path.
To further your career in statistics or data science, check out these graduate school resources.
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