IT, BI / Business Analysis, Science / Research

Data Scientist

Overview

A data scientist is an expert in analyzing and interpreting complex data sets using statistical and computational methods. They use their expertise to extract insights and identify patterns that can help inform business decisions.

The main responsibilities of a data scientist may include collecting and processing large sets of data, performing statistical analysis and modeling, developing algorithms and machine learning models, and creating visualizations and reports to communicate insights to stakeholders.

Common tasks 

    TaskRelated trait(s)
    Collecting data from various sources and standardize datasets, ensuring data validity and reliability Conscientiousness  Achievement striving
    Conducting statistical analyses Achievement striving
    Collaborating with other teams to develop data-driven solutions Presenting with confidence   Teamplayer Helping Others
    Identifying tools and statistical models to conduct data analysis Achievement striving Creativity
    Communicating findings to technical and non-technical stakeholders Communication – Active listening 
    Staying up-to-date with developments in data science Learner Creativity Curiosity
    Managing and mentoring junior data analysts Communication – Active listening

    Soft skills measured by TraitForward

    TraitNo of QuestionsCronbach’s  alpha (α)
    Communication – Active listening80.71
    Do they understand others?
    Conscientiousness120.83
    Do they have a desirable work ethic?
    Learner70.83
    Do they like reading?
    Achievement striving70.72
    Do they want to overcome themselves?
    Creativity100.82
    Can they come up with solutions to novel problems?
    Curiosity80.74
    Are they deep learners?
    Presenting with confidence50.74
    Are they socially confident?
    Cautiousness60.70
    Do they think before they act and speak?
    Teamplayer Positive group practices80.74
    Do they like being included in a group?
    Teamplayer Helping Others60.73
    Do they like helping others?
    Communication skills – Expressiveness100.82
    Do they express themselves effectively?
    *Cronbach’s alpha coefficient (α) determines the extent to which the questions consistently measure each trait and it is expressed as a number ranging between 0 and 1 . Higher values indicate higher agreement between questions.  A value of α equal to greater than .7 indicates acceptable reliability or internal consistency.  For more information on the psychometric properties of the solution, please click here.

    Did you Know?

    Source: US Department of Labor – Bureau of Labor Statistics

    Median wage: 

    $100,910 / per year

    $48,5 / hour

    A relatively low annual wage is $59,430 (10th percentile)

    A relatively high salary of the annual wage is $167,040 (90th percentile)

    Expected employment growth:

    Number of professionals occupied in US in 2021: 113.3 K

    Projected number of professionals occupied in US in 2031: 153.9 K

    Employment percent change: 35,8%

    Entry Education level:

    To become a data scientist, one typically needs a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, such as computer science, statistics, or mathematics. They must have strong analytical and critical thinking skills and be proficient in programming languages such as Python, R, and SQL. Additionally, data scientists must have a strong understanding of statistical methods and data analysis techniques. They should also be able to effectively communicate their findings to non-technical stakeholders in a clear and concise manner. Some data scientists may also choose to pursue advanced degrees or certifications in data science or related fields to further enhance their skills and knowledge.

    Find out the psychometric properties for the Data Scientist Traitforward questionnaire